Drugs of Abuse (Alcohol) Discussion
Instructions: Discussion on Alcohol
- Common Signs and Symptoms of Intoxication
- Common Signs and Symptoms of withdrawal
- Commercial and Street Names
- Acute Health Effects/Health Risks
- Screening tools including for withdrawal symptoms and medication management
- Possible Treatment Options including for withdrawing symptoms
Responses need to address all components of the question, demonstrate critical thinking and analysis and include peer-reviewed journal evidence to support the student’s position.
Submission Instructions
- Your initial post should be at least 300words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 evidence-based sources.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Intoxication:
Alcohol intoxication can manifest in various signs and symptoms, including:
- Slurred speech
- Lack of coordination or staggering
- Impaired judgment
- Euphoria or exaggerated emotions
- Reduced inhibitions
- Blurred vision
- Nausea or vomiting
- Memory lapses or blackouts
Common Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal:
Alcohol withdrawal occurs when a person who regularly consumes alcohol suddenly stops or significantly reduces their intake. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Tremors or shaking
- Insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns
- Irritability or agitation
- Increased heart rate or blood pressure
- Sweating or clammy skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Hallucinations or delirium tremens in severe cases
Commercial and Street Names:
Alcohol is commonly referred to by its generic name, but it also has various street names depending on the context. Some common street names for alcohol include booze, brew, hooch, juice, and sauce.
Acute Health Effects/Health Risks:
Alcohol consumption, especially in excess, can lead to numerous acute health effects and long-term health risks. Acute effects include impaired judgment leading to accidents or injuries, alcohol poisoning, respiratory depression, and coma. Long-term health risks of chronic alcohol abuse include liver disease, cardiovascular problems, neurological disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and increased risk of certain cancers.
Screening Tools and Medication Management:
Several screening tools are available to assess alcohol use disorders, including the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and the CAGE questionnaire. These tools help healthcare professionals identify individuals at risk for alcohol-related problems and guide intervention strategies. Medication management for alcohol withdrawal may involve benzodiazepines such as diazepam or lorazepam to manage symptoms and prevent complications like seizures or delirium tremens.
Possible Treatment Options:
Treatment options for alcohol use disorder encompass various approaches, including behavioral therapies, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, and pharmacological interventions. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI) aim to address underlying psychological factors contributing to alcohol misuse. Medications like naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram can help reduce cravings or deter drinking by causing unpleasant reactions to alcohol consumption.
In conclusion, alcohol intoxication and withdrawal present significant health risks and require comprehensive assessment and management strategies. Utilizing screening tools, implementing appropriate medication management, and offering a range of treatment options can help individuals struggling with alcohol-related issues achieve recovery and improve their overall well-being.
References:
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Alcohol’s Effects on the Body. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-body
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Alcohol Use Disorder: Diagnosis and Treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369250