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CAGE Questionnaire for Alcohol Problems
Topic Overview
The CAGE questionnaire is used to test for alcohol Reference abuse Opens New Window and Reference dependence Opens New Window in adults. It is not used to diagnose the disease but only to show whether a problem might exist.
The CAGE questionnaire consists of four questions that relate to your use of alcohol:Reference 1
- Have you ever felt that you ought to Cut down on your drinking?
- Do you get Annoyed by criticism of your drinking?
- Do you ever feel Guilty about your drinking?
- Do you ever take an Early-morning drink (eye-opener) to get the day started or to get rid of a hangover ("a little hair of the dog that bit you")?
If you answer "yes," "sometimes," or "often" to 2 or more of the questions, you might have a problem with alcohol. If you think you or someone you care about has an Reference alcohol use problem Opens New Window, talk with a health professional. Further evaluation by a trained alcohol abuse counselor might be needed.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference July 11, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

