Conditions InDepth: Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA

En Español (Spanish Version)

AUD is marked by alcohol-related issues that include misuse, abuse, and dependency. It includes:

Binge drinking—Drinking large amounts of alcohol in a short amount of time
Alcohol abuse—Drinking even though it affects relationships, jobs, or family life
Alcohol dependence—Loss of control over drinking that leads to cravings, a tolerance for alcohol, and withdrawal when drinking is stopped

Causes

The exact cause is not known. Genetics may play a role. It may also involve changes in brain chemistry that affect how alcohol is processed by a person's body.

• What are the risk factors for alcoholism? • What are the symptoms of alcoholism? • How is alcoholism diagnosed? • What are the treatments for alcoholism? • Are there screening tests for alcoholism? • How can I reduce my risk of alcoholism? • What questions should I ask my doctor? • Where can I get more information about alcoholism?

REFERENCES:

Alcohol use disorder. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/alcohol-use-disorder. Accessed September 3, 2020.

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/alcohol-withdrawal-syndrome. Accessed September 3, 2020.

Day E, Copello A, Hull M. Assessment and management of alcohol use disorders. BMJ. 2015 Feb 19;350:h715.

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). American Psychiatric Association; 2013.

• Next

Last reviewed March 2020 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrian Preda, MD
Last Updated: 2/19/2021

EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.