what do you understand by alcoholism ? why is it considered chronic?
Answers
Alcoholism is when one can no longer control their use of alcohol, compulsively abuse alcohol, despite its negative ramifications, and/or experience emotional distress when they are not drinking.
Alcoholism is considered a chronic disease for several reasons. It has some elements of heritability, meaning there are genetic components that can run in families. Environmental factors are also part of the equation. Consider diabetes, another chronic disease. Whether or not you develop diabetes is based on a combination of your family’s genes and your personal lifestyle choices, like diet and exercise. Alcoholism is similar. You may be genetically more predisposed to developing alcoholism if you have an alcoholic family member or ancestor. Growing up in an environment where alcohol is prevalent contributes to this risk. The environmental risk factors and genetics work together and determine the course of the disease.
Alcoholism is a chronic disease that gets worse over time. Like many chronic diseases, it can be diagnosed and treated but not cured, and carries a risk of relapse.