Answer to Question 1
It is a form of drug/substance dependence characterized by continuous or periodic impaired control over drinking, preoccupation with alcohol, use of alcohol despite numerous adverse consequences, and distortions in thinking, most notably denial. Marked tolerance to many of the psychological effects of alcohol is typical and physical dependence may be present.
Answer to Question 2
Primarily due to the poor nutritional practices of alcoholics and the fact that alcohol has considerable calorie content but no other nutrients, alcohol abusers don't take in sufficient vitamins, minerals and proteins. Alcohol may also interfere with the absorption of certain vitamins. Thiamine deficiency is a primary cause of neuronal damage. It is likely that the damage is due to a variety of factors, e.g., synergistic effects of ethanol, acetaldehyde (the first metabolite of ethanol), thiamine deficiency, liver disease, and excessive NMDA receptor activity (which can be excitotoxic) during alcohol withdrawal.
