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Alcohol Use Disorder

Symptoms, health effects, and the cessation process of alcohol use disorder.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol use disorder is a chronic addiction defined by difficulty controlling alcohol intake, the development of tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. It is conceptualized as a spectrum from mild to severe and includes alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.

Alcohol use disorder leads to serious medical complications such as liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, cardiomyopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. It frequently co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

Sudden cessation of alcohol in dependent individuals can cause life-threatening withdrawal seizures and delirium tremens. Therefore, medically supervised detoxification is critically important.

Symptoms

Drinking more than planned and being unable to stop
Repeated unsuccessful attempts to quit
Spending most of the time obtaining and consuming alcohol
Neglecting responsibilities at work, family, and social life
Withdrawal symptoms: tremor, sweating, anxiety, seizure risk
Continuing to drink despite ongoing harm from alcohol

Risk Factors

Family history of alcohol dependence
Early-age onset of drinking
Mental health disorders (depression, PTSD, anxiety)
Chronic pain
High-stress environment and easy access
Social isolation

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If seizures or tremors begin upon abrupt cessation of alcohol (emergency)
  • If daily life and health are seriously affected
  • After repeated unsuccessful attempts to quit
  • If signs of liver or pancreatic disease are present
  • If depression or suicidal ideation is also present

Treatment Methods

01
Medical detoxification (safe withdrawal management with benzodiazepines)
02
Naltrexone, acamprosate, disulfiram (relapse-prevention medications)
03
Motivational interviewing and CBT-based psychotherapy
04
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and the 12-step program
05
Concurrent treatment of co-occurring mental health disorders
06
Family support and reintegration programs

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.