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High-functioning alcoholicWritten ByPartha Nandi, MD

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), 28.6 million adults in the United States suffer from alcohol use disorder (AUD) as of 2021, revealing the pervasive nature of alcohol addiction in our society. This statistic serves as a wake-up call, urging us to delve deeper into the world of high-functioning alcoholism (HFA) and its impact on the liver. [1]

Alcoholism, a deceptive muse, can lead individuals down a treacherous path. What may begin as harmless drinking can gradually escalate into a severe addiction. The repercussions of chronic alcohol consumption on the liver are dire, encompassing conditions like fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. The effects on one’s health are profound, and it is crucial to recognize the warning signs and take preventive measures.

  1. Nervousness and Ill-Temperament

Scientific studies have shown that individuals with HFA experience severe adverse reactions when they attempt to abstain from alcohol. Alcohol dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as tachycardia, anxiety, excessive sweating, nervousness, and even seizures. These symptoms place additional strain on the liver, exacerbating the damage. [2]

  1. Preference for Drinking Over Eating

HFAs often prioritize alcohol over proper nutrition, using mealtime as an excuse to indulge in excessive drinking. This habit can result in malnutrition, impeding the liver’s ability to heal from alcohol-induced damage. Studies have shown that chronic alcohol consumption can lead to inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver, eventually causing cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. [3]

  1. Inability to Stop at One or Two Drinks

One of the hallmark signs of HFA is the inability to control alcohol intake. HFAs often struggle to stop drinking once they start, and they may even consume other people’s drinks. This excessive alcohol consumption leads to inflammation and fat buildup in the liver, increasing the risk of severe liver damage. [3]

  1. Tolerance to Hangover Symptoms

HFAs often develop a higher tolerance to hangover symptoms like headaches and nausea due to their body’s dependence on alcohol. However, this increased tolerance does not signify improved liver health. On the contrary, it may indicate more significant liver damage over time. A healthy liver can process approximately one drink per hour, but chronic alcohol consumption overwhelms the liver’s capacity, resulting in long-term harm. [4]

  1. Rationalizing Excessive Drinking

HFAs typically find excuses to justify their harmful behavior, attributing it to problems at home, difficulty sleeping, an abundance of parties, or stress at work. These rationalizations and denial further delay the recognition of alcohol-related liver damage, worsening the prognosis. Recognizing the need for change and seeking help is crucial to prevent irreversible harm. [5,6]

My Personal RX: Preventive Measures

Managing high-functioning alcoholism can be challenging, but there are effective strategies to address this issue. As a medical professional, I can provide you with a personalized prescription that includes practical advice on how to cope with high-functioning alcoholism. By following these recommendations, you can significantly improve your overall quality of life and successfully navigate this complex situation.

  • Acknowledge the problem: Acceptance is the first step toward recovery. Acknowledge that alcohol has become a significant issue in your life and seek help from professionals or support groups.
  • Set limits and goals: Establish clear limits on alcohol consumption and work towards reducing intake gradually. Set achievable goals to reduce alcohol dependence gradually.
  • Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups who can provide guidance, understanding, and assistance throughout the recovery process.
  • Professional help: Consult a healthcare practitioner or addiction specialist who can provide personalized guidance and treatment options tailored to your needs.
  • Develop healthy coping mechanisms: Explore alternative ways to cope with stress, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or therapy, to replace the reliance on alcohol as an escape.
  • Regular health check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with a healthcare professional to monitor liver function and address any potential issues promptly.
  • To support individuals who may be struggling with alcohol addiction and looking for ways to manage stress and promote overall well-being, I recommend downloading my free meditation guide called “Calm the Chaos.” This guide can help in reducing anxiety and providing a sense of peace during challenging times. 
  • As part of your journey towards detoxification and improving liver health, I suggest taking my “Detox Bundle” supplement. This specially curated bundle is designed to support the body’s natural detoxification process and promote optimal liver function.

High-functioning alcoholism poses a severe threat to both individuals and society as a whole. Recognizing the warning signs and taking preventive measures is crucial to safeguarding liver health and overall well-being. Remember, it’s never too late to seek help and embark on a journey toward a healthier, alcohol-free life.

References:

  1. Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). (n.d.). https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-use-disorders 
  2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US). (2006). Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment. NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64115/ 
  3. Osna, N. A. (2017). Alcoholic Liver Disease: Pathogenesis and Current Management. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5513682/ 
  4. Swift, R., & Davidson, D. (1998). Alcohol hangover: mechanisms and mediators. Alcohol health and research world, 22(1), 54–60. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6761819/ 
  5. Pickard H. (2017). Responsibility without Blame for Addiction. Neuroethics, 10(1), 169–180. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12152-016-9295-2 
  6. Pickard, H. (2016). Denial in Addiction. Mind & Language, 31(3), 277–299. https://doi.org/10.1111/mila.12106

About the author

Partha Nandi, MD

Partha Nandi M.D., F.A.C.P. is the creator and host of the internationally syndicated medical lifestyle television show, Ask Dr. Nandi.

A practicing physician and a renowned international speaker, his appearances include TEDx, college commencements, numerous charity functions, premier medical meetings such as Digestive Disease Week, and nationally syndicated television programs such as The Katie Couric Show.

Dr. Nandi has partnered with the Ministry of Health in multiple countries, including Jamaica and India, and has collaborated with The World Health Organization in multiple areas throughout the globe, Dr. Nandi delivers passionate and inspiring talks to diverse audiences.

He continues to travel internationally for conferences and symposia, meeting with global health leaders on his quest to improve health care quality, access, and to empower people across the world β€œTo Be Your Own Health Hero.”

DrNandi@AskDrNandi.com

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