Question 1

What is Alcoholism and Drug Abuse?

Accepted Answer

Alcoholism and drug abuse are chronic behavioral health conditions characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. These conditions cause progressive damage to multiple organ systems including the liver, heart, kidneys, and muscles through direct toxic effects and nutritional deficiencies. The Creatine Kinase (CK) Total Serum test is the most important test for detecting muscle damage caused by chronic alcohol and drug use.

Question 2

What causes alcoholism and drug abuse?

Accepted Answer

Alcoholism and drug abuse are caused by a complex interaction of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and neurochemical changes in the brain's reward system. Repeated substance use alters dopamine and serotonin pathways, creating physical dependence and compulsive behaviors. Risk factors include family history of addiction, early exposure to substances, mental health disorders like depression or anxiety, trauma, and social environments where substance use is normalized.

Question 3

What is the best test for alcoholism and drug abuse?

Accepted Answer

The Creatine Kinase (CK) Total Serum test is the most important blood test for detecting physical complications from alcoholism and drug abuse because it measures muscle damage and breakdown that commonly occurs with chronic substance use. Elevated CK levels indicate rhabdomyolysis, a serious condition where damaged muscle tissue releases proteins into the bloodstream that can harm the kidneys. While substance abuse disorders are diagnosed clinically through behavioral assessments, the CK test provides critical objective data about organ damage and helps healthcare providers monitor recovery progress and prevent life-threatening complications.

Question 4

When should I get tested for alcoholism and drug abuse complications?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience muscle pain, weakness, or dark urine after heavy alcohol consumption or drug use, as these indicate possible muscle breakdown. Testing is also important if you have been using substances chronically and want to assess whether organ damage has occurred, or if you are entering recovery and need baseline measurements to track healing. Additionally, seek testing if you notice unexplained fatigue, confusion, decreased urination, or swelling, which may signal kidney complications from substance-related muscle damage.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of alcoholism and drug abuse?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of alcoholism and drug abuse include strong cravings for the substance, inability to control or reduce use despite wanting to stop, and needing increasing amounts to achieve the same effect. Physical signs include tremors, sweating, nausea, muscle weakness, poor coordination, slurred speech, and changes in sleep patterns. Behavioral symptoms include neglecting responsibilities, withdrawing from family and friends, continuing use despite negative consequences, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, irritability, or physical discomfort when not using the substance.

Question 6

Who is at risk for alcoholism and drug abuse?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of addiction are at significantly higher risk due to genetic factors that affect brain chemistry and impulse control. Those who experienced childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect are more vulnerable, as are individuals with co-occurring mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Early substance use during adolescence dramatically increases addiction risk, as the developing brain is more susceptible to dependence. Additionally, people in high-stress professions, those with chronic pain conditions, and individuals in social environments where substance use is common face elevated risk.

Question 7

What happens if alcoholism and drug abuse is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated alcoholism and drug abuse leads to severe organ damage including liver cirrhosis, heart disease, kidney failure, and permanent brain damage affecting memory and cognitive function. Chronic substance use significantly increases the risk of stroke, cancer, infectious diseases like hepatitis and HIV, and mental health deterioration including depression and psychosis. Muscle breakdown from substance use can cause life-threatening kidney damage, while malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies weaken the immune system. Additionally, untreated addiction often results in job loss, relationship destruction, legal problems, and premature death from overdose, accidents, or organ failure.

Question 8

Can alcoholism and drug abuse be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Alcoholism and drug abuse cannot be definitively diagnosed with a blood test alone, as these are behavioral health conditions diagnosed through clinical evaluation, medical history, and standardized assessment tools. However, blood tests play a crucial role in detecting the physical consequences of substance use, including liver damage, kidney dysfunction, nutritional deficiencies, and muscle breakdown. Tests like Creatine Kinase (CK) can reveal muscle damage from chronic use, while liver function panels detect alcohol-related liver disease. Blood tests also help identify intoxication levels and monitor organ function during treatment and recovery.

Question 9

How is alcoholism and drug abuse treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for alcoholism and drug abuse typically involves a combination of medical detoxification, behavioral therapy, and ongoing support to address both physical dependence and psychological addiction. Medically supervised detox helps manage withdrawal symptoms safely, while evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and group counseling address the underlying causes of addiction. Medications such as naltrexone, buprenorphine, or disulfiram may be prescribed to reduce cravings and prevent relapse. Long-term recovery usually includes participation in support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, lifestyle changes, and treatment of co-occurring mental health conditions.

Question 10

How can I prevent alcoholism and drug abuse?

Accepted Answer

Prevention starts with education about the risks of substance use, especially for young people whose brains are still developing. Building strong coping skills for stress management, maintaining healthy relationships, and addressing mental health issues early reduces vulnerability to addiction. Limit exposure to environments where substance use is prevalent, and if you drink alcohol, do so in moderation following recommended guidelines. Seek help immediately if you notice patterns of increasing use, using substances to cope with emotions, or experiencing negative consequences from use. Family support, community involvement, and open communication about substance use also provide protective factors against addiction.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support recovery from alcoholism and drug abuse?

Accepted Answer

Create a substance-free environment by removing all alcohol and drugs from your home and avoiding places or people associated with substance use. Establish a structured daily routine with regular sleep, nutritious meals rich in vitamins and protein to repair organ damage, and regular exercise to boost mood and reduce cravings. Stay connected with your support network through recovery meetings, therapy appointments, and supportive friends or family members. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling, and identify healthy coping strategies for triggers and difficult emotions. Keep emergency contact numbers readily available and celebrate small milestones in your recovery journey to maintain motivation.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Blood Test

What is Alcoholism and Drug Abuse?

What causes alcoholism and drug abuse?

What is the best test for alcoholism and drug abuse?

When should I get tested for alcoholism and drug abuse complications?

References

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