Overview
Alcohol use disorder is a chronic illness marked by alcohol consumption that interferes with physical or mental health, and social, family or job responsibilities. Over time this use can lead to liver, circulatory, and neurological problems. Pregnant women who drink alcohol in any amount may harm the fetus.
Review Date 2/8/2024
Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.