If you have ever tried to quit drinking alcohol, you may have experienced withdrawal symptoms. Alcohol withdrawal can occur when people who are dependent on alcohol suddenly reduce their consumption. This is caused by a decrease in the responsiveness of GABA receptors in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve activity. Anxiety, insomnia, and tremors can be caused by decreased GABA activity.
Symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the degree of withdrawal. There are many mild symptoms, such as anxiety, shakiness, sweating, and nausea. Seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (DT) may occur in more severe cases of delirium tremens (DT).
The Timeline for Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
After the last drink, withdrawal usually begins six hours later and peaks between 24 and 72 hours later. Most people, however, begin to feel better within seven days. Many people who give up alcohol after drinking heavily for a long time will experience withdrawal symptoms. Over the next few days, these symptoms usually decrease in intensity and frequency as abstinence progresses.
Still, some people may experience withdrawal symptoms for weeks or even months. Before giving up alcohol, talk to your doctor before going cold turkey without medical supervision. You can avoid any potentially serious health problems by informing your doctor of your withdrawal symptoms.
The General Symptoms of Withdrawal
There can be a wide range of symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal, ranging from mild to life-threatening. Anxiety, agitation, depression, fatigue, headache, irritability, mood swings, nightmares, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and tremors are some of the most common signs of AWS.
Anxiety and agitation are two of these distressing symptoms. Other symptoms, such as fatigue and headaches, can be more debilitating. Immediately seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms after stopping or reducing your alcohol intake. The withdrawal process can be dangerous, but it can be treated with the help of a medical professional.
The Most Severe Symptoms of Withdrawal
There is a risk of life-threatening alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) if you have been drinking heavily for a long period. There are several deadly complications associated with AWS, including disorientation, delusions, hallucinations, and seizures, but Delirium Tremens (DTs) are likely one of the deadliest.
The first thing you should do if you suspect you or someone you know is suffering from DTs is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. AWS can often be diagnosed and treated early to prevent the development of DTs. If you are concerned about someone who has been drinking heavily, don’t wait to seek help. A full recovery is more likely to occur if the person receives treatment as early as possible.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The effects of alcohol withdrawal can be profoundly serious. You may experience certain symptoms when you stop drinking, such as anxiety, tremors, sweating, nausea, and vomiting. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms may last for a few days or even weeks, depending on the individual, but some people may also suffer hallucinations or seizures.
The first thing you should do if you experience any of these symptoms is to seek immediate medical attention. A medical professional should be consulted during the withdrawal process because it is a potentially dangerous process. As you go through withdrawal, they can help you manage your symptoms, so that you remain healthy and safe during this time.
Medically Supervised Detox
Most withdrawal symptoms peak within 24 to 48 hours and resolve within a week. Some people, however, may experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms that last for months or even years. Talk to your doctor about how to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms if you are concerned.
The severity of withdrawal can be reduced by taking certain medications under medical supervision. The most commonly used medication is benzodiazepines, which are tranquilizers. As a result, they can relieve symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and seizures by depressing the central nervous system. Barbiturates, anticonvulsants, and antipsychotics may also be used.
We provide detoxification, individual counseling, group therapy, and more for alcohol withdrawal. Additionally, we have a strong network of support resources that can help you deal with alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Our counselors can be reached at 844-639-8371.