Pathophysiology Of Alcoholism And Addictive Disorders

1. Describe the pathophysiology of alcoholism and addictive disorders. The pathophysiology of alcoholism begins after alcohol the ingestion of alcohol. It is absorbed and unaltered through the stomach and intestines. Next it is distributed throughout the body through the blood and absorbed by all tissues and fluids (Huether, 2012, p. 72). Furthermore, in the liver the alcohol blood content is metabolized into acetaldehyde by the enzymes process of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), the microsomal ethanol oxidizing system (MEOS), and catalase (Huether McCance, 2012). Next, the metabolizing effects the central nervous system (CNS) and exhibits a depressant action. It is first expressed in the subcortical structures of the brain. This has an effect of disorientation of motor skills and intellect. With an increase in blood alcohol concentration, the medullary centers become depressed and as a result affects respiration (Huether McCance, 2012). In addition, the effects of alcoholism encourage hepatic and gastric changes. The hepatic effect is caused by acetaldeh yde, in which, induces inflammation, fatty deposits and enlargement of the liver (Huether McCance, 2012). 2. Discuss the concept of tolerance to alcohol and the diagnostic criteria for alcohol/substance abuse. Individual tolerance vary upon their ability to metabolize alcohol. Genetics has been proven to influence the metabolic rate of alcohol in the liver. Furthermore, this affects the metabolism of alcohol depending onShow MoreRelatedAlcoholism Outline809 Words   |  4 PagesTopic: ALCOHOLISM Objective: To be able to discuss about Alcoholism. Outline: I.   Classification and terminology of Alcoholism A. Etymology II. History of Alcohol III. Signs and symptoms B.   Symptoms of long term alcohol misuse 1. Physical symptoms 2. Psychiatric symptoms 3.   Social effects C. Alcohol withdrawal IV. Causes of Alcoholism D. Genetic variation V. Pathophysiology VI. Diagnosis of Alcoholism Read MoreGeriatric Assessment7902 Words   |  32 Pagespopulations, it tends to miss some of the most prevalent problems faced by the elder patient. These challenges, often referred to as the Five Is of Geriatrics, include intellectual impairment, immobility, instability, incontinence and iatrogenic disorders. The geriatric assessment effectively addresses these and many other areas of geriatric care that are crucial to the successful treatment and prevention of disease and disability in older people. Performing a comprehensive assessment is an ambitiousRead MoreClinical Approaches Of Treating Sleep Terror Disorder9928 Words   |  40 Pagesstates have been more in depth within the last half century. In regards to sleep terror disorder, many effected individuals only require assurance of their safety and accurate facts of the nature of sleep terror episodes. Additional management may be a consideration if violent behavior becomes problematic or restricts daily functions. Research has indicated a number of features associated with sleep terror disorder but have not determined any definitive correlation between those characteristics and