Alcohol Withdrawl and Detox
Heavy alcohol users often find it hard to quit, which is why alcohol rehab is the most effective way to fight addiction. Alcohol withdrawal is a series of symptoms that heavy drinkers experience when they abruptly quit alcohol. The symptoms can be mild but in some cases, may prove fatal. Although it is more common in adults, children and teenagers dealing with alcohol use disorder can also experience it. Luckily, patients suffering from alcohol withdrawal have a high survival rate, especially if they get treatment from an alcohol rehab facility.
Alcohol withdrawal
Alcohol has depressant effects on the central nervous system. It harms certain brain functions by interrupting communications between neurons. Therefore, excessive alcohol drinkers will have problems with coordination and judgment. Continuous intake of alcohol, especially in large quantities forces the brain to adjust to the effects of alcohol and increase tolerance. Eventually, the person will reach a point where they have to take a drink to perform tasks or feel healthy.
When a person with alcohol dependence quits drinking, the abrupt absence of alcohol in their body is strange to their nervous system, triggering withdrawal. To curb the symptoms, alcohol addicts turn to compulsive drinking, even if they are aware of the detrimental effects of alcohol on their health and relationships. Alcohol withdrawal is not only fatal but could also inhibit the struggle to overcome alcohol addiction.
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal
The symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal often depends on the patient, but the most common symptoms include:
- Heart palpitations
- Anxiety
- Shaking and tremors
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Heightened blood pressure
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
Delirium Tremens: This is a condition common with extreme alcohol withdrawal. Delirium tremens is potentially dangerous because it can lead to seizures. This symptom occurs in one out of every 20 people who suffer alcohol withdrawal. It is more probable in people with severe alcohol addiction or a history of alcohol withdrawal.
Most signs of delirium tremens manifest two or three days after the person quits drinking. Anyone showing signs of delirium tremens must seek professional help immediately.
What is alcohol detox?
The most effective way to beat addiction to alcohol is to quit usage. When undergoing alcohol detox, the person intentionally withdraws from drinking to allow their body to adjust to normal performance without alcohol. Alcohol detox can be uncomfortable and distressing since the person must experience the full-blown symptoms of withdrawal. Although withdrawal sometimes causes relapse, resolving to go through the symptoms and not fighting it with more alcohol initiates a vital milestone for recovery and sobriety.
Due to the dangers of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, people need to undergo alcohol detox in an alcohol rehab facility under medical supervision. Drinkers who undertake alcohol detox with professional assistance have higher chances of completing the process safely and successfully. A detox may be uncomfortable, but it is a crucial initial step for anyone who wants to fight excessive alcohol use. After detox ends, the recovering patient can start therapy in a treatment program.
Final note
It is not advisable to through alcohol detox and withdrawal alone. Medical professionals at alcohol rehab facilities can help patients get through the process successfully and on the path to sobriety.
Get more information here: https://www.joelnathanmd.com or call Joel Nathan, MD at (347) 237-7944
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