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Conditions InDepth: Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
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Risk Factors
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Screening
Reducing Your Risk
Talking to Your Doctor
Resource Guide

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.

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