Understanding the life expectancy of individuals struggling with alcoholism is crucial in comprehending the impact of this disorder on overall health and mortality rates. And unfortunately for frequent imbibers, the numbers get even bleaker when the amount of alcohol consumed per week increases. If a person were to drink seven alcoholic beverages a week (beer, wine, or spirits), they risk cutting their life expectancy by two and a half months. A person who drinks 35 alcoholic beverages a week is looking at shaving two years off their life, according to the research. According to the current USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the recommendation for moderate drinking is a maximum of two drinks per day for men, one drink per day for women. Cirrhosis of the liver can’t be reversed, but it is possible to slow or stop its progression.

How the body processes alcohol

Discover the reasons people may become codependent and learn effective strategies for recovery. Explore “what is drug therapy?”, its various types, and how it’s transforming lives in the realm of healthcare. Explore why residential treatment centers aren’t always possible for recovery and discover alternatives.

High-Functioning People with Alcohol Use Disorder

Jace joined Hemet Valley Recovery in 2006 after she graduated from 4-D College in Colton, CA. She began her journey in the addiction field working as a detox medication nurse shortly after graduation. She spent 10 years on the nursing floor working with a team of doctors and nurses to get patients safely through the detox process, where they then could continue to pursue sobriety.

The 3 Stages of Alcoholism

Dolly brings with her great compassion, empathy and her commitment to a life of service and recovery. Even though there are many health consequences an individual can face during the last stages of alcoholism, quitting drinking can alleviate many of the symptoms. However, a person should never try to quit drinking on their own during end stage alcoholism. Providing support and resources to individuals with alcoholism is vital in their recovery process. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), support can contribute to better outcomes and potentially extend the life expectancy of individuals struggling with alcoholism.

When is someone considered high functioning?

These challenges can impact their academic performance, mental health, and ability to cope throughout their lives. The cycle of alcoholism can perpetuate intergenerational emotional distress and strain in familial relationships. It is essential to recognize and address the health consequences of alcoholism, as early intervention and support can significantly improve outcomes. Seeking appropriate interventions and treatment options, along with providing a supportive environment, can help individuals with alcoholism regain control over their health and well-being.

Cardiovascular Health

Alcohol-related liver disease, or cirrhosis, is caused when a person drinks too much alcohol for a long time. The prognosis for someone diagnosed with cirrhosis depends on whether and how much fibrosis and inflammation are present. If the individual stops drinking and there is no fibrosis present, the fatty liver and inflammation can be reversed.

In September of 2023 he received his Bachelors of Arts Degree in Psychology with a concentration in addiction. In 2024 he will pursue his Master’s in Clinical Counseling on his way to ultimately become a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Shaun’s goal is to help people realize their potential in recovery and heal no matter what they have been through. In a separate research study, it was found that those individuals who reported drinking excessive amounts had shorter life expectancies at age 40 of approximately 4 to 5 years. Approximately 20% of the alcohol-related survival difference was attributed to death from cardiovascular disease. Further exploration and analysis of the study results revealed that people who drank beer or spirits, as well as binge drinkers, had the highest risk for mortality from all causes.

How to Financially Recover After Addiction? A Step-by-Step Guide

Typically, an individual reaches end-stage alcoholism after years of alcohol abuse. At this point, people who have spent years drinking may have developed numerous health and mental conditions in addition to their alcohol abuse. The individual may have isolated themselves, how long do alcoholics live lost their job, or damaged major organs in the body. Another consequence is the risk to their overall health as the organs shut down. Treating the alcohol use disorder, along with the health problems caused by chronic, heavy drinking, may be possible.

Instead, the DSM-5 has established AUD as the term to replace previous stigmatizing terms such as alcohol dependence, alcohol abuse, and alcoholism. Liver damage is the most talked about physical consequence and that is a concern almost immediately. https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/dealing-with-internal-and-external-relapse-triggers/ Alcoholics can go on to develop heart, respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders. There can also be declines in their mental and overall health, especially if they’re not eating healthy diets or engaging in physical activity.

• During the early stages of the disease, the person may drink heavily and may experience hangovers in between drinking episodes.
• The brain also becomes more sensitive to the effects of alcohol as people get older, Moore says.
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• Discover the truth behind “Does drinking alcohol cause hair loss?” Learn causes, effects, and recovery tips.
• Explore the stages of alcoholism, understand its impact, and learn about effective treatment options.