This is a group of blood tests that will check for any damage of inflammation to the liver. They can also check to see how well the liver is working. LFTs include PT, INR, and bilirubin. .
Diagnosing an alcoholic may begin with a doctor or nurse recognizing the signs or symptoms of alcoholism. After they recognize the symptoms they will most likely ask the patient several questions about their drinking habits. They may even have the patient fill out a questionnaire to get a better understanding about the patients drinking habits. If the doctor feels that it is necessary he may ask the patient for their permission to talk to their family members and friends about how they feel regarding the patients drinking habits. If a family member has concerns about the patients drinking habits they can also call and inform the doctor about this but due to privacy rules and regulations they cannot receive any information, only offer it. .
While there is no diagnostic test for alcoholism, the American Psychiatric Association published criteria for alcoholism in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. This criteria includes a pattern of alcohol use leading to serious problems, as indicated by three or more of the following at any time during a period of twelve months: tolerance, the amount alcohol that you need to feel drunk or intoxicated; withdraw symptoms when you are not using alcohol, that includes tremors, insomnia, nausea, anxiety, or drinking more throughout to avoid these symptoms; drinking more alcohol or drinking over a longer period of time than you intended too; having an ongoing desire to cut back on the amount of alcohol that you are drinking and fail at your attempt to do so; spending a great deal of your time drinking or recovering from drinking; giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities for drinking; and continuing to you alcohol even when it is causing you physical and physiological problems.
