Alcohol and tobacco are the only two recreational drugs legal in the United States. Excess use of alcohol and tobacco can lead to addiction. Here is what you should know about alcohol and tobacco addiction.
Alcohol Addiction
Somebody who needs alcohol on a daily basis is likely suffering from alcohol addiction. Alcohol addiction develops gradually.
Tobacco Addiction
The nicotine used in tobacco products is the primary cause of tobacco addiction. Nicotine is as addictive as drugs like heroin and cocaine.
Consequences
Alcohol addiction can impact your work life and social life. Under the influence of alcohol you are more likely to make regrettable decisions. In regards to tobacco, the book "Disease Control Priorities in Developing Countries," produced by the World Bank, predicts tobacco addiction will claim the lives of one billion people before the end of the 21st century.
Effects on the Body
Alcohol addiction can lead to conditions such as alcohol dementia (similar to Alzheimer's disease) and liver disease. Tobacco products are known to cause cancer.
Treatment
The first step in alcohol addiction is medical detoxification. Medical detoxification is a method of getting sober in which addicts are kept under the supervision of trained medical professionals. Using nicotine products, such as patches and gum, is a common way to treat tobacco addiction. Nicotine products help to slowly reduce nicotine cravings until the body no longer desires the drug.
Tags: Alcohol addiction, alcohol tobacco, tobacco addiction, tobacco addiction, tobacco addiction Nicotine