Sharing information with your physician helps with proper care

Dear Doctors: How do I tell my doctor that I have a problem with alcohol?

I'm prescribed pain medicine, which I don't abuse. However, my alcohol consumption has increased, especially since my mom died last fall. I want to bring it up, but I am not sure how, or even if I should.

Dear Reader: We want to begin by saying that it takes courage to recognize when you have a problem. Alcohol is a widely acc…