End-stage alcoholism represents the final and most severe phase of alcohol use disorder, where the body and mind suffer severe damage due to chronic alcohol abuse. But what does this mean, and how does one cope with it?

What are the Stages of Alcoholism?

Alcoholism progresses through several stages, each characterized by specific signs and behaviors. The stages of alcoholism can be quite different for everyone, but here are some of the most common ones:

Stage 1: Pre-alcoholic stage

This is one of the early stages where a person drinks alcohol for various reasons, such as to cope with stress, relax, socialize, or have fun. They might not drink daily, but they may drink more than they intend to or more than the recommended limits.

A person in the pre-alcoholic stage may not necessarily feel the negative consequences of alcohol use yet. But they may experience hangovers, blackouts, or conflicts with others occasionally. However, they do not see their drinking as a problem and can still control their intake.

Stage 2: Early-stage alcoholism

During the early stages of alcoholism, social drinking can gradually escalate to frequent and heavy consumption. Drinking-related problems emerge, like hangovers, mood swings, and guilt.

Cravings and withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety and nausea, might surface when not drinking. Responsibilities at work, school, or with family can suffer, accompanied by guilt and shame.

Despite this, they often deny a problem, concealing their drinking and downplaying the issue. This marks the gradual development of alcohol dependence.

Stage 3: Middle-stage alcoholism

In this stage, alcohol consumption escalates, leading to physical or psychological dependence. Control over drinking diminishes, and heavy or binge drinking becomes more frequent and challenging to curb.

Alcohol tolerance increases, withdrawal symptoms intensify upon quitting, and consequences like strained relationships and health issues worsen.

A person in the middle stage of alcoholism might isolate themselves from others who do not drink or criticize their drinking.

Stage 4: Late-stage alcoholism

Late-stage alcoholism, the final phase, brings life-threatening conditions due to relentless, compulsive drinking. Full-blown addiction or severe alcohol use disorder is typically diagnosed.

Uncontrollable alcohol abuse leads to severe withdrawal, often necessitating medical detox. Immune system decline invites serious illnesses, while organ damage from alcohol is often irreversible, leading to alcoholic liver disease, pancreatitis, and more.

Death risks loom from alcohol-related causes. Relationships, careers, and dignity suffer, and daily functioning dwindles after years of alcohol misuse.

At this point, the person’s ability to function in daily life significantly deteriorates.

Late-stage alcoholism is often fatal if left untreated.

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Symptoms of End-Stage Alcoholism

Here are some common signs and symptoms of end-stage alcoholism:

  • Drinking alcohol every day, even when you don’t want to or when it hurts you
  • Having trouble stopping or controlling your drinking, even when you try
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you don’t drink
  • Liver problems
  • Neurological problems
  • Heart problems
  • Stomach problems
  • Mood problems
  • Relationship problems
  • Enlarged dilated pupils with a sensitivity to light
  • Legal problems
  • Malnutrition
  • Severe headaches

Late-stage alcoholism can also cause physical symptoms that may be observable and can act as warning signs, such as extreme weight changes, puffy face, clammy, pale skin, low energy, red eyes, shaky hands, and lack of hygiene.

Symptoms of End Stage Alcoholism

End-Stage Alcoholism and Health Complications

End-stage alcoholism can lead to many alcohol-related illnesses due to prolonged and excessive alcohol intake. Here are some of the most common issues we see with people who have end-stage alcoholism:

  • Liver disease. Chronic alcohol abuse can cause liver damage, leading to conditions such as alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver disease.
  • Cardiovascular disorders. Heavy and prolonged alcohol consumption can contribute to cardiovascular problems or heart disease, including high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), heart muscle damage (cardiomyopathy), and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
  • Gastrointestinal complications. Alcohol abuse can also irritate and inflame the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to conditions such as gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), ulcers, and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
  • Neurological disorders. Too much alcohol can damage the central nervous system, leading to a range of neurological complications.
  • Mental health disorders. Alcoholism often coexists with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and an increased risk of suicide. Prolonged alcohol abuse can exacerbate these conditions and make effective treatment more challenging.
  • Increased risk of cancer. Late-stage alcoholism is associated with an increased risk of developing various types of cancer, including liver, mouth, throat, esophageal, and colorectal cancer.

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Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome and End-Stage Alcoholism

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) is a brain disorder that can result from chronic alcohol abuse. It is a serious condition affecting memory, cognition, coordination, and vision. Specifically, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a neurological disorder caused by a lack of thiamine (vitamin B1), essential for converting food into energy and maintaining healthy brain function.

Thiamine deficiency can occur due to poor nutrition, malabsorption, or excessive alcohol consumption, which interferes with the body’s ability to absorb and store thiamine.

WKS consists of two stages: Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome. Wernicke’s encephalopathy affects the brain, while Korsakoff’s psychosis affects the nerves and spinal cord.

Early Signs of Liver Disease From Alcoholism

Another serious complication of late-stage alcoholism is liver problems. The liver is responsible for breaking down alcohol and other toxins in the body, but excessive alcohol use can damage the liver cells and cause inflammation, scarring, and cirrhosis.

Some of the early signs of liver disease from alcoholism include:

  • Pain or swelling in the upper right abdomen
  • Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
  • Weight loss or weakness
  • Fatigue or sleepiness
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Itchy skin or spider-like veins on the skin
  • Dark urine or pale stools
  • Bruising or bleeding easily

If you notice any of these signs, you should see your doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further liver damage and improve your prognosis.

Coping With End-Stage Alcoholism

Coping with late-stage alcoholism can be challenging, but there are ways to help yourself or someone you love. Here are some tips:

  • Seek professional help. The first step to recovery is admitting your problem and getting help from a qualified addiction treatment center.
  • Abstain from alcohol. Prevent further damage to your health and life and stop drinking altogether. However, quitting alcohol alone can be dangerous and even fatal in end-stage alcoholism. You should always consult your doctor before attempting to quit drinking.
  • Change your lifestyle. This may include adopting healthy eating habits, engaging in regular physical activity, finding new hobbies and interests, avoiding triggers and temptations, and building a sober support network can also help you cope with end-stage alcoholism.
  • Seek help for co-occurring conditions. Many people with end-stage alcoholism also suffer from other mental or physical health conditions that may worsen their addiction or recovery. If you have any co-occurring conditions, you should seek appropriate treatment for them as well.
  • Have hope. Coping with end-stage alcoholism may sometimes seem hopeless, but recovery is possible. Many people have overcome their addictions and regained their health, happiness, and quality of life. You can be one of them if you are willing to work hard, stay committed, and seek help when needed.

Am I in Danger of Alcoholism?

Different people have different levels of tolerance and dependence on alcohol. However, some common signs of alcoholism are:

  • Drinking more than you intended or for longer than you planned
  • Having trouble cutting down or stopping drinking
  • Spending a lot of time and money on getting, using, or recovering from alcohol
  • Experiencing cravings or alcohol withdrawal symptoms when you don’t drink
  • Neglecting your responsibilities, hobbies, or relationships because of alcohol
  • Continuing to drink despite knowing the negative consequences
  • Needing more alcohol to get the same effect

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, you may be in danger of alcoholism.

Seeking Help and Hope for End-Stage Alcoholism

End-stage alcoholism is an urgent, life-threatening condition, but there’s always hope for recovery. If you or someone you love is struggling with this critical stage of addiction, reaching out for professional assistance could be the key to overcoming this challenge.

A transformative step in the journey to recovery can be joining a sober living home. These homes offer a nurturing environment where residents live alongside others dedicated to their path to sobriety. The structured daily routines, a strong sense of community, and extensive support services provide the essential foundation to rebuild lives shattered by addiction.

In Los Angeles, Design for Recovery stands out as a beacon of hope. Catering specifically to men, this sober living home provides a robust and compassionate approach to recovery. With a firm commitment to personal growth, accountability, and responsibility, Design for Recovery helps residents rediscover their passions and set new goals in education, employment, or hobbies.

Recovering from end-stage alcoholism is a daunting journey, but with Design for Recovery, you’ll never have to walk it alone. Long-term sobriety is achievable, and the first step begins with us. Contact Design for Recovery today to discover how we can provide the help, hope, and healing you need to overcome addiction and embrace a brighter future.

Table of contents

  • What are the Stages of Alcoholism?
  • Symptoms of End-Stage Alcoholism
  • End-Stage Alcoholism and Health Complications
  • Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome and End-Stage Alcoholism
  • Early Signs of Liver Disease From Alcoholism
  • Coping With End-Stage Alcoholism
  • Am I in Danger of Alcoholism?
  • Seeking Help and Hope for End-Stage Alcoholism

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Average Life Expectancy of an Alcoholic?

The average life expectancy of an alcoholic can be significantly shorter than that of the general population. It varies depending on factors such as overall health, the severity of alcoholism, the presence of other health conditions, and access to treatment. However, end-stage alcoholism can lead to a significantly reduced life expectancy.

What is the Cause of Death in Alcoholic Patients?

Alcohol-related deaths can occur due to various causes, including liver failure, alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, cardiovascular complications, accidents resulting from impaired judgment, and increased risk of suicide.

In Which Stage of Alcoholism Does the Drinker Face Serious Health Problems?

Serious health problems associated with alcohol use disorder can occur in the late stages of the disease, where individuals experience severe physical and mental deterioration due to chronic alcohol abuse.

What is the Final Stage of Liver Damage From Drinking?

The final stage of liver damage from drinking is often cirrhosis, a condition characterized by irreversible scarring of the liver tissue. Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure and other life-threatening complications.

How Long Does End-Stage Alcoholism Last Before Death?

The duration from end-stage alcoholism to death can vary depending on individual circumstances, including overall health, the extent of organ damage, and access to medical care. It is difficult to provide an exact timeframe as it can range from months to years.

How Can You Tell If a Person is in End-Stage Alcoholism?

Some signs of end-stage alcoholism are:

  • Severe liver damage and jaundice
  • Frequent infections and bleeding
  • Confusion, memory loss, and hallucinations
  • Loss of appetite and weight
  • Tremors, seizures, and coma

If you or someone you know has these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

What Happens to the Body During End-Stage Alcoholism?

During end-stage alcoholism, the body experiences severe damage to various organs, including the liver, brain, heart, and gastrointestinal system. This can result in liver failure, cognitive impairments, cardiovascular disorders, gastrointestinal complications, and a range of other serious health problems.

What to Expect During End-Stage Alcoholism?

During the late stages of alcoholism, you may experience severe physical and mental decline, including liver damage, neurological impairments, gastrointestinal issues, cardiovascular complications, and an increased risk of other health problems. It also reduces your capacity to carry out everyday tasks and significantly lowers your quality of life.

Sources

Bode, C., & Bode, J. C. (1997). Alcohol’s Role in Gastrointestinal Tract Disorders. Alcohol Health and Research World, 21 (1), 76-83. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6826790/

Meadows, G. G., & Zhang, H. (2015). Effects of Alcohol on Tumor Growth, Metastasis, Immune Response, and Host Survival. Alcohol Research : Current Reviews, 37(2), 311-322. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4590626/

Oscar-Berman, M., Shagrin, B., Evert, D. L., & Epstein, C. (1997). Impairments of brain and behavior: the neurological effects of alcohol. Alcohol health and research world, 21(1), 65–75.

Patel, R., & Mueller, M. (2022). Alcoholic Liver Disease. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546632/

Piano, M. R. (2017). Alcohol’s Effects on the Cardiovascular System. Alcohol Research : Current Reviews, 38(2), 219-241. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5513687/

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/wernicke-korsakoff-syndrome