Warning Signs of an Alcoholic

A person is considered drunk or intoxicated when he or she suffers from behavioral or psychological changes such as inappropriate sexual or aggressive behavior, mood swings, impaired judgment, impaired social or occupational functioning that develop during or shortly after alcohol consumption.

Symptoms of Alcohol Intoxication:

Slurred speech
Poor coordination
Cannot walk straight
Rapid eye movement
Impaired attention or memory
Stupor or coma
Warning Signs of Alcoholism:

Experience the following symptoms after drinking: frequent headaches, nausea, stomach pains, fatigue, weakness, muscle cramps, or irregular or rapid heartbeat
Need a drink in the morning to start the day
Deny any problem with alcohol
Do things while drinking that are regretted later
Dramatic mood swings, from anger to laughter to anxiety
Sleep problems
Depression and paranoia
Forget what happened while drinking
Change brands or go on the wagon to control drinking
Have five or more drinks a day
The best way to tell if someone is intoxicated is through the amount of alcohol in his or her blood. The blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) is expressed in percentage. Here's an example: the BAC of 0.05% means that about five parts alcohol to 10,000 parts of other blood components. Most people reach this limit after one or two drinks and usually feel relaxed, happy, and a sense of well-being.

The U.S Department of Transportation asked states to set 0.08% the blood alcohol concentration at which a person will be cited for drunk driving. The level of 0.08% can be reached by a 150lb man who consumed 3 mixed drinks. Check with your state for the exact percentage.

Deciding to Get Help

Acknowledging that help is needed for an alcohol problem may not be easy. But keep in mind that the sooner a person gets help, the better are his or her chances for a successful recovery.

Any reluctance you may feel about discussing your drinking with your health care professional may stem from common misconceptions about alcoholism and alcoholic people. In our society, the myth prevails that an alcohol problem is somehow a sign of moral weakness. As a result, you may feel that to seek help is to admit some type of shameful defect in yourself. In fact, however, alcoholism is a disease that is no more a sign of weakness than is asthma or diabetes. Moreover, taking steps to identify a possible drinking problem has an enormous payoff--a chance for a healthier, more rewarding life.

When you visit your health care provider, he or she will ask you a number of questions about your alcohol use to determine whether you are experiencing problems related to your drinking. Try to answer these questions as fully and honestly as you can. You also will be given a physical examination. If your health care professional concludes that you may be dependent on alcohol, he or she may recommend that you see a specalist in diagnosing and treating alcoholism. You should be involved in making referral decisions and have all treatment choices explained to you.