Alcohol is a part of the culture in the United States. Studies show that most adults in the US drink at least occasionally. Alcohol is also one of the most addictive substances, and many people struggle to maintain moderate drinking.

Long periods of heavy drinking can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Alcoholism is a progressive condition that can develop over many years. Once someone develops alcoholism, they usually require intensive treatment and support to get sober.

This article will explore end-stage alcoholism. You will learn:

If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol abuse, seek treatment right away to avoid worsening problems. Reach out to the Carolina Center for Recovery specialists to learn about our treatment programs or schedule an intake appointment.

The Stages of Alcoholism

Alcohol addiction does not develop overnight. Instead, people may experience worsening symptoms of this condition as time goes on.

Alcoholism is a progressive condition that typically happens in stages. Here is a brief overview of each stage of alcoholism.

Pre-alcoholic stage

It can be challenging to recognize the signs of the pre-alcoholic stage. People may appear to function normally, even as they adopt unhealthy drinking behaviors. Some signs of this stage include:

• Self-medicating emotional or physical pain with alcohol
• Using alcohol to deal with anxiety, boredom, or social discomfort
• Drinking more or more often than before

Using alcohol to cope with challenges can lead to heavy drinking and other problematic patterns.

Early-stage alcoholism

One of the most significant signs of early-stage alcoholism is tolerance. Tolerance means that a person’s body has adjusted to an amount of alcohol. People with tolerance must drink more alcohol to get ‘buzzed.” Or, they may be able to drink a lot without appearing intoxicated.

Middle-stage alcoholism

Middle-stage alcoholism can cause physical and behavioral signs. People may have a high tolerance for alcohol during this stage. Other symptoms include:

• Gaining or losing a significant amount of weight
• Tremors
• Skin changes
• Sweating
• Bloating
• Fatigue
• Red or puffy face

People may neglect their relationships and hobbies because of alcohol use. They may miss work or fall behind on other important things because they are frequently drunk or hungover.

End-Stage alcoholism

End-stage alcoholism is the final stage of alcoholism. People with end-stage alcoholism are dependent on alcohol and cannot choose to stop drinking.

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The Symptoms of End Stage Alcoholism

People in the final stage of alcoholism are no longer in control of their alcohol consumption. They are addicted to alcohol and must drink to function.

Some symptoms of endstage alcoholism include:

• Paranoia
• Neglected hygiene
• Mood swings
• Significant weight gain
• Anxiety

People with end-stage alcoholism may have significant behavioral changes, including:

• Isolation
• Drinking at work
• Neglecting their hygiene and other daily tasks

People will continue to drink even when they lose their jobs, have relationships fall apart, or develop severe physical and mental health conditions.

There are several significant health conditions that can occur during the final stages of alcoholism. Here are some of the most significant complications.

Werinicke Korsakoff Syndrome

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (sometimes called “wet brain”) is a type of brain damage that can occur with chronic alcoholism. This condition causes memory problems that can be severe and permanent.

Liver disease

Alcohol abuse is hard on the liver. Long periods of heavy drinking can cause liver damage and disease, including a condition called cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis causes scarring of the liver tissue that prevents it from functioning. While the liver can typically regenerate, liver cirrhosis causes permanent damage that can be life-threatening.

Damaged immune system

Alcohol abuse can impair the immune system. People with end-stage alcoholism may be at higher risk of bacterial or viral infections and other illnesses.

Alcohol withdrawal

People with alcoholism typically experience severe withdrawal symptoms within just hours of their last drink. Some withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening. People with chronic alcoholism may be at higher risk for developing a deadly condition called Delirium Tremens (DTs). The symptoms of this condition include:

• Seizures
• Extreme confusion
• Psychosis
• Aggressive behaviors
• Dangerously elevated body temperature
• High blood pressure
• Elevated heart rate

People who develop DTs can die without immediate medical intervention.

People with long-term alcohol abuse are also at increased risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and injuries from accidents. It is crucial to get help for alcoholism as soon as you recognize a problem.

Find Treatment Now

Alcoholism is a complex condition that requires intensive, compassionate support. People with excessive alcohol consumption, binge drinking, or signs of alcoholism must get comprehensive support and treatment.

The Carolina Center for Recovery offers comprehensive alcohol addiction programs. People get medications, therapy, support groups, and other evidence-based treatments. These therapies help people address the complex roots of their substance abuse and move forward.

Reach out to our intake specialists to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Section 1: Underage Drinking in America: Scope of the Problem
2. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics
3. NIAAA: Alcohol’s Effects on Health
4. NIH: Alcoholic Liver Disease
5. Wiley Online Library: Clinical management of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome