What is chronic ethanolism?

Chronic ethanolism, or chronic alcohol use disorder, is a pattern of excessive ethanol consumption that leads to harm to the drinker's health, social functioning, or both. It can be a serious and debilitating condition, and it can have a wide range of negative consequences, including liver damage, heart disease, cancer, and cognitive impairment.

Some people who drink alcohol heavily develop alcohol use disorder, but not everyone who drinks heavily does so. The factors that contribute to alcohol use disorder include genetics, personality, and environmental factors.

Treatment for chronic alcoholism typically involves a combination of medication, therapy, and support groups. The goal of treatment is to help people reduce the amount they drink or quit drinking altogether. Treatment can help people improve their physical and mental health, their social functioning, and their quality of life.