Signs of Alcoholism and Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcoholism is a serious health condition often misunderstood and underestimated. It is not simply a matter of self-control.

Recognising the physical and behavioural signs of alcoholism early gives you the best chance to seek support and prevent long-term harm. Understanding these signs may also help you support someone else struggling with their alcohol use.

Physical Signs of Alcoholism & Alcohol Use Disorder

Signs of alcoholism often result in clear physical changes. These include visible alterations in appearance, withdrawal symptoms, and a growing tolerance to alcohol. Recognising these signs can be the first step towards recovery.

Changes in Appearance After Drinking Too Much Alcohol

You may notice your skin becoming red or puffy, especially on your face. Over time, alcohol consumption can cause the skin to appear dry, dull, or break out in small blood vessels across the cheeks or nose.

Excessive drinking can also lead to fluctuations in weight. Fluid retention may cause swelling in the hands and face. In more advanced stages, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) can occur due to liver damage caused by long-term alcohol use.

Other common physical changes include:

• Bloodshot eyes
• Poor personal hygiene
• Shaking or tremors, especially in the hands

Withdrawal Symptoms of Alcohol

If you suddenly stop drinking, your body may react strongly depending on the amount and frequency. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms often include sweating (such as sweaty palms or forehead), tremors or shaking in the hands or fingers, and nausea, which may lead to vomiting.

Some patients experience anxiety, characterised by nervousness or restlessness, while others struggle with insomnia, finding it difficult to fall or stay asleep. These signs and symptoms suggest that your body has developed an alcohol dependence.

In more severe cases, alcohol withdrawal symptoms can pose serious health risks, especially in people with an alcohol use disorder. This pattern of alcohol use often requires addiction treatment, and early treatment is important to prevent complications.

If you’re concerned about your drinking, seek help from a professional who can guide you through a safe recovery process.

Increased Tolerance After Heavy Drinking

A key warning sign of alcohol dependence is needing to drink more to feel the same effect. This is known as developing a tolerance to alcohol, and it can escalate over time.

You might notice you can drink more alcohol than others without appearing drunk. This growing tolerance is dangerous as it signals your body is adapting and potentially developing an alcohol dependence. The greater the tolerance, the more alcohol is typically consumed, increasing long-term health risks.

Behavioural Signs of Alcohol Dependence

Signs of alcohol dependence are not only physical. Behavioural changes are often noticeable and affect work, relationships, and social functioning.

Secretive Drinking Habits

You might observe someone drinking alone or in secret, perhaps hiding alcohol around the home or office. They may drink before events or lie about how much they’ve had. Attempts to mask the smell of alcohol or avoid being seen drinking are also red flags.

Disappearing during social gatherings or offering strange excuses can signal hidden drinking patterns. These behaviours may indicate that the person is struggling with alcohol dependence.

Neglect of Responsibilities

People dependent on alcohol often fail to meet their responsibilities at work, school, or home. Once routine tasks become difficult, commitments may be missed or forgotten.

This behaviour can lead to declining performance, disciplinary action, or even job loss. It can also strain family relationships and lead to isolation. As the condition progresses, everyday life becomes increasingly disorganised.

Risky or Impulsive Actions

Alcohol use can reduce inhibition and impair judgement. This can lead to high-risk behaviours such as driving while intoxicated, engaging in unprotected sex, or acting aggressively.

These actions not only endanger the person but also those around them. Some may face legal or financial consequences and continue these behaviours despite knowing the risks, another key indicator of alcohol addiction.

Psychological Effects of Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol misuse affects mental health as much as physical health. It alters brain chemistry and impairs emotional regulation.

Mood Swings and Irritability

Alcohol can cause sudden mood swings, shifting from cheerfulness to sadness or anger with little warning. These changes are often linked to how alcohol interacts with neurotransmitters in the brain.

As emotional control weakens, relationships suffer. Frequent conflicts, reduced interest in activities, and social withdrawal are all possible outcomes. Over time, people may feel increasingly isolated and hopeless.

Memory Lapses

Heavy drinking can lead to memory lapses or blackouts. You may forget conversations, events, or decisions made while intoxicated.

These episodes can result in confusion, embarrassment, or even danger. Over time, repeated alcohol misuse may lead to long-term cognitive decline. Problems with memory, learning, and focus are common and may become permanent if untreated.

Long-Term Consequences of People With Alcohol Use Disorder

Without timely intervention, alcoholism can cause widespread and lasting damage. The effects are not just physical; they impact every aspect of life.

Chronic Health Conditions

Long-term alcohol abuse and alcoholism can cause extensive damage to the body and mind. Liver disease is common in heavy drinkers and may include fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, or cirrhosis, all of which are linked to the consumption of alcohol over time.

Heart issues such as high blood pressure and heart disease are also linked to unhealthy alcohol use. The risk of alcohol use disorder further increases the likelihood of developing several types of cancer, particularly of the mouth, throat, liver, and breast.

Mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and memory decline, are frequently caused by drinking excessively or continuing to use alcohol despite harm. Another concern is the suppression of the immune system, which makes individuals more prone to infections. 

Impact on Relationships

Alcohol misuse often erodes trust and communication within families and social circles. Behavioural changes, such as irritability and unreliability, lead to frequent conflicts.

As dependence deepens, you may become increasingly isolated. Social events may be avoided unless alcohol is involved. Over time, alcoholism can fracture families, end friendships, and result in loneliness and despair.

Alcohol Use Support That Lasts Beyond Treatment

Recovery from alcohol addiction isn’t easy, but finding the right support can make a significant difference. PROMIS offers a compassionate, clinically grounded environment where you can work through the root causes of addiction. With experienced staff and evidence-based treatment approaches, it’s a place where many have found structure, care, and long-term recovery.

Are you ready to take the first step? Reach out to us, and we’ll go over your options with no commitment.