Alcohol use disorder is a condition marked by an inability to control alcohol consumption, a strong focus on drinking, or continued alcohol use despite negative consequences. It often involves needing to drink more to achieve the same effect or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when cutting back or stopping. This disorder encompasses a range of drinking behaviors, including what is commonly referred to as alcoholism. 

Unhealthy alcohol use refers to any pattern of drinking that endangers your health or safety or leads to alcohol-related problems. This includes binge drinking—defined as consuming five or more drinks in about two hours for men, or four or more for women. Such drinking behavior poses serious health and safety risks. 

If your drinking habits consistently cause significant distress or interfere with your ability to function in daily life, you may have alcohol use disorder. The severity can range from mild to severe, but even mild cases can progress and become more serious, making early treatment crucial. 

Symptoms 
Alcohol use disorder can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how many symptoms are present. Common signs and symptoms include: 

• Difficulty limiting alcohol intake 
• Repeated attempts to cut back or quit without success 
• Spending a significant amount of time drinking, obtaining alcohol, or recovering from its effects 
• Strong cravings or urges to drink 
• Failing to meet responsibilities at work, school, or home due to drinking 
• Continuing to drink despite knowing it's causing issues in your health, relationships, or job 
• Reducing or giving up social, work, or recreational activities in favor of drinking 
• Drinking in dangerous situations (e.g., driving or swimming) 
• Developing a tolerance—needing more alcohol to feel the same effect 
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like nausea, shaking, or sweating when not drinking, or drinking to relieve those symptoms 

Alcohol use disorder may involve episodes of intoxication and periods of withdrawal. 

Alcohol Intoxication occurs when your blood alcohol level rises. The higher the concentration, the greater the risk of harmful effects. Symptoms include behavioral issues and mental changes such as poor judgment, mood swings, slurred speech, memory issues, and coordination problems. Severe intoxication can lead to blackouts, coma, permanent brain damage, or death. 

Alcohol Withdrawal can set in after heavy, prolonged drinking is reduced or stopped. It may begin within hours and last up to 4–5 days. Symptoms can include sweating, rapid heart rate, hand tremors, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, agitation, anxiety, and sometimes seizures. These symptoms may interfere with your ability to function normally. 

What Counts as One Drink? 
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, a standard drink is: 

• 12 oz (355 mL) of regular beer (~5% alcohol) 
• 8–9 oz (237–266 mL) of malt liquor (~7% alcohol) 
• 5 oz (148 mL) of wine (~12% alcohol) 
• 1.5 oz (44 mL) of distilled spirits or hard liquor (~40% alcohol) 

When to Seek Help 
If you feel you sometimes drink too much, if your drinking causes issues, or if others express concern, talk to your healthcare provider. You can also reach out to a mental health professional or support organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous. 

Because denial is common, you might not see your drinking as a problem. You may not recognize the link between your drinking and problems in your life. Pay attention to concerns raised by friends, family, or coworkers, and consider speaking to someone who has overcome similar issues. 

Helping a Loved One 
People with alcohol use disorder often resist treatment because they don't see the problem. A well-planned intervention can sometimes help them acknowledge the issue and accept help. If you're worried about someone’s drinking, consult a professional with experience in alcohol addiction for guidance on how to approach them.