Binge Drinking Part 2 – Risk Factors and Treatment

As we mentioned in Part 1 enjoying the occasional evening of drinks is perfectly normal, but if you find yourself constantly biding time until the next party, passing out from drinking, or if others take issue with your partying ways, it may be time for a doctor’s visit.

Risk Factors for Developing Alcohol Problems

People are at greater risk of developing drinking problems if they started binge drinking early, had a parent or close relative with alcohol problems, or hang around with people who frequently drink. Those suffering from certain mental health conditions may be at higher risk of developing problems with alcohol as well.

Is An Intervention Necessary?

It may be time for action if you, a friend, or family member is showing signs such as:

1. Having tried and failed to cut down on drinking

2. Spends much of their time either drinking or hungover from parties

3. Develops an inclining tolerance for alcohol

4. Is touchy, defensive or confrontational when the topic of alcohol abuse arises

5. Makes poor decisions such as drinking and driving

6. Fails to fulfill social or work-related obligations

People with alcohol disorders or problems are often in denial about their alcohol abuse, so sometimes friends and family may need to intervene to bring the problem to the person’s full attention. It may not go over well at first, but if family and friends encourage the person to seek treatment, they will often come around and do so.

What To Ask The Doctor

If you or a loved one feels out of control of drinking habits, it is time to talk to a professional about treatment. When you go to your appointment, your doctor will want to know certain information including your symptoms, any medications you take, exactly how much you drink or if there is any family history of alcoholism. You should prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor such as:
– Should I quit, or just cut back on my drinking?
– Is my drinking making health problems worse or caused me to develop new ones?
– Can you perform some tests to see if my drinking is effecting my physical health?
– Can you refer me to a therapist?
– What other treatment options are available for me?

Treatment Options And Lifestyle Changes

Depending on the severity of the patient’s problem, a doctor may recommend such treatment as:

• Detoxing – cleansing one’s system of alcohol to help decrease or eliminate dependence, some people have to attend rehab facilities for this if they are unable to do so unassisted.
• Psychological counseling – can help with any emotional or mental damage created by drinking, as well as help the person develop healthier coping mechanisms when they crave alcohol.
• Changing lifestyle – people trying to get over alcohol issues may have to replace the time they would have spent drinking with another more beneficial activity such as group yoga, or going out for frozen yogurt with a group of friends a couple times a week.
• Medications – sometimes depending on the severity of the situation, a doctor may recommend a medication such as Vivitrol to help someone combat alcoholism
• Treating health issues – there may be subsequent damage done to the body if drinking has occurred over many years, these issues must be addressed and corrected for the person to live a healthy, happy new life.
• Community support – some people with alcohol problems find it beneficial to attend community support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

Societal Efforts To Curtail Bingeing

Governments have taken several steps toward discouraging binge drinking and preventing drinking-related issues such as:

• Imposing additional taxes and tariffs on alcohol
• Creating public awareness campaigns such as ‘Designated Drivers’
• Shop liability for alcohol sold to underage customers
• Strongly enforced laws such as underage drinking and drunk driving
• Limiting stores that sell alcohol to only a few per city and restricting hours of sale

Thanks for stopping by DocChat! If you have any concerns about binge drinking or other alcohol problems, please feel free to contact one of our highly qualified DocChat physicians today.