Substance Use Disorder

At Extended Care Medical, our expert team provides comprehensive men’s hormone optimization/testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), Gainswave ED Therapy, comprehensive sexual wellness solutions, and medical weight loss to patients in Dothan, Alabama and the surrounding areas such as Enterprise, AL; Fort Novosel, AL, Ozark, AL, Daleville, AL, Troy, AL, Marianna, FL, Chipley, FL, Houston County, AL, Dale County, AL, Coffee County, AL, Geneva County, AL, Henry County, AL, Pike County, AL and in other areas of the state of Alabama. We also offer telemedicine services in the state of Florida.

I regularly drink alcohol; could I have a substance use disorder?

Not necessarily. A substance use disorder (SUD) is a medical condition characterized by excessive substance use that affects behavior, relationships, and health. 

SUD occurs on a spectrum, which can make it difficult to diagnose. Even so, there are telltale signs to watch out for. For example, if you regularly crave a specific substance or spend all your money buying it, seeking professional help is essential. 

Having a substance use disorder isn’t something to be ashamed of. Admitting you have a problem with a specific drug or substance is the first step toward recovery. 

What are the symptoms of a substance use disorder?

Substance use disorder symptoms include:

• Taking a substance in large amounts over extended periods
• Difficulty fulfilling professional or personal responsibilities 
• Continuing substance use despite mental or physical health problems
• Using substances regularly, even when they put you in danger
• Giving up activities you love to use
• Developing tolerance and needing to use more of the substance to get a high

Depending on the substance you use, you might experience symptoms of withdrawal. For example, alcohol dependence can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, and headaches.

How is a substance use disorder diagnosed?

There isn’t a specific test used to diagnose a substance use disorder. Instead, your Extended Care Medical provider reviews your health records, asks about your drug or alcohol use and lifestyle, and completes a physical exam. 

They also order lab tests, including urinalysis and blood work, and have you fill out a questionnaire. If your responses align with the criteria for an SUD as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), you have a substance use disorder. 

Do I have to receive treatment for substance use disorder in person?

No. The Extended Care Medical team offers treatment for substance use disorders in person to patients in Alabama and through telehealth for those residing in Florida. The team is LegitScript certified, so they can prescribe medication for SUDs over the Internet. 

What’s more, each of the on-staff providers is licensed in Alabama and Florida, so they’re able to provide services like medication management and monitoring to people living in either location.

Call Extended Care Medical today to schedule treatment for a substance use disorder or book your visit online.