End-stage alcoholism is the final and most dangerous stage of alcoholism. Those in this stage generally have been drinking for several years and, at this point, have probably developed some severe health complications due to drinking.
Despite this, these individuals struggle with the ability to stop drinking. Alcohol addiction is dangerous, and those who find themselves struggling should reach out and speak to a professional before trying to quit drinking cold turkey. This helps avoid further complications.
End-Stage Alcoholism Overview
End-stage alcoholism is the final stage of alcoholism. It can also be the most destructive, and after years of drinking, those who have reached this stage generally begin struggling with physical and mental health conditions as a result.
At this point, alcohol has probably been a major contributing factor to someone’s isolation, loss of job, friction within family units, and potential troubles with law enforcement. The health impacts that can occur as a result of addiction to alcohol can be severe, life-threatening, and irreversible.
Effects of ESA
Those who are struggling with alcohol and find themselves in end-stage alcoholism have difficulty when it comes to stopping drinking. Despite all the negative impacts that alcohol has caused in their life, it is still a major part of their daily routine. The effects of their addiction to alcohol can be extreme. Just as with drugs like heroin or prescription medications, alcohol addiction can wreak havoc on a person’s body resulting in impacts to health as well as mental health.
A person’s liver is a vital organ necessary for the body to function properly. With chronic, daily drinking, the liver suffers damage. It becomes inflamed and fatty, resulting in scarring and cirrhosis. Other health concerns that can be a part of end-stage alcoholism include higher risks of dementia or cancer, brain damage, and hepatitis.
Signs and Symptoms of End-Stage Alcoholism
Alcoholism affects the lives of the drinker, as well as the lives of their loved ones. Family and friends struggle to watch their loved ones continue down a path of self-destruction. Identifying potential signs of end-stage alcoholism can help these individuals encourage their loved ones to receive much-needed and life-saving care.
Signs to look out for can include:
- Malnutrition
- Hallucinations
- Tremors and shakes
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
- Impaired memory and concentration
Stages of Alcoholism: Progression to End
There are different stages of alcoholism. They are broken down into 6 stages that include social drinking, binge drinking, heavy drinking, alcohol dependency, addiction or alcoholism and end-stage alcoholism. Social drinking is a relatively safe stage. It may or may not lead to addiction, but usually means going out for a drink or 2 with some friends.
Binge drinking is more problematic. It can either be an occasional practice, or more frequent. Heavy drinking occurs when someone drinks more. This can include daily drinking, or greater amounts when drinking socially. Alcohol dependency is when the person’s body has developed a need for alcohol to feel normal.
Addiction or alcoholism means a person has generally begun experiencing negative consequences and continues drinking despite them. End-stage alcoholism is the final stage where alcohol has resulted in impacts on physical and mental health.
Treatment for ESA
While alcohol addiction sometimes results in permanent damage, the condition is treatable to prevent this. End-stage alcoholism is also treatable. It all begins with detoxification. Removing the alcohol and toxins from the system is vital to beginning a healthier lifestyle.
This process must be done under medical supervision to ensure safety and prevent further complications. After detox, addiction treatment benefits the individual to learn positive coping skills for continuing a sober lifestyle. Behavioral therapies, use of medications, and proper support for recovery.
Relapse Prevention
Relapse prevention is a vital part of addiction recovery. Anyone who is struggling with alcohol, and trying to remain sober could benefit from the tools and support addiction treatment provides. One of those tools is relapse prevention.
Having professional and peer support, learning positive coping skills, and knowing what to do when cravings arise can help individuals to achieve long-term sobriety. For example, 12-step fellowships can be a positive and supportive environment that can help those seeking recovery from alcohol addiction to maintain sobriety long-term.
These fellowships provide some guidance and support from other individuals with similar struggles. Recovering from alcohol addiction is possible, and having the right kind of help and support makes a difference.
Recover From Alcoholism
Alcohol is a substance that many people across the country struggle with daily. The number of people affected by addiction to alcohol is staggering. Those whose lives have been affected by alcohol addiction can attest to its devastating nature.
If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol, there is help available. At Brentwood Springs we offer care to aid individuals who are struggling to find hope. Call us today and begin healing.
