Prolonged, heavy use of alcohol can lead to addiction (alcoholism). Sudden cessation of long term, extensive alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations and convulsions. Long-term effects of consuming large quantities of alcohol, especially when combined with poor nutrition, can lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and liver. In addition, mothers who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. These infants may suffer from mental retardation and other irreversible physical abnormalities. In addition, research indicates that children of alcoholic parents are at greater risk than other children of becoming alcoholics.Fetal Alcohol SyndromeA disorder seen in a small number of the children born of mothers who drink heavily during pregnancy. A child with fetal alcohol syndrome usually has low intelligence and learning problems.
WithdrawalPhysical changes occurring when a person stops or decreases very heavy use of alcohol or other addictive drugs. Withdrawal symptoms usually include shaking, sweating, rapid breathing, and agitation. Hallucinations or convulsions may also occur.
Alcoholism-
A disease characterized by excessive and habitual drinking of alcoholic beverages, that causes the alcoholic, physical, psychological, and social harm.
Addiction-
A progressive, chronic, relapsing disorder that includes: craving for alcohol or other drugs and a compulsion to use them; inability to control substance use; and continued use in spite of negative consequences. Other symptoms of addiction can include tolerance (development of resistance to a drug's effects over time), physical dependence, psychological dependence, and withdrawal.
Alcoholic-
Someone who as the result of their alcohol consumption, either excessive or habitual, suffers or has suffered physical, psychological, emotional, social or occupational harm.
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