What Is Alcohol Withdrawal?

The absence of alcohol in the system causes a set of uncomfortable and potentially deadly symptoms known as alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal starts within a few hours of the last use and can persist up to 4-5 days.Physical reliance on alcohol leads to withdrawal symptoms. When a person is alcohol-dependent, their body and brain require alcohol to feel good and operate correctly. When there is no more alcohol in their system, they experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Detox, a natural process in which the body attempts to remove toxins and restore balance, causes withdrawal symptoms.Withdrawal is a physically and mentally unpleasant experience, to the point where many heavy drinkers would continue to drink despite the negative consequences in order to prevent withdrawal. Alcohol depresses the nervous system. Repeated and excessive alcohol consumption alters neurotransmitters that transmit messages to the CNS and interferes with the brain’s natural processes.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms in Order of Appearance

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms might be mild or severe. Yours will differ depending on how much and for how long you drank.

1. After 6 hours

After you’ve stopped drinking for 6 hours, you will experience some withdrawal symptoms. Mild symptoms can appear as soon as 6 hours after you’ve set your glass down. They include:

• Stress/Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Shaking hands
• Vomiting
• Intense headaches

2. After 12 Hours

You may experience sweating during 12 to 48 hours after your last alcoholic beverage. Hallucinations (around 12-24 hours after you stop drinking) and seizures (during the first two days after you stop drinking) can start also in this timeframe.

3. After 48-72 Hours

Delirium tremens, or DTs as they’re commonly referred to, typically begins around this time. Vivid hallucinations and delusions are among the most severe symptoms. They are found in just around 5% of patients who are suffering from alcohol withdrawal. Those who do may also suffer from the following conditions:

• Fever
• Confusion
• Sweating profusely
• High blood pressure
• High heartbeat rate

Alcohol Withdrawal Treatments

Unless you have a serious health problem or have already experienced severe withdrawals, you will likely only require a supportive atmosphere to get through this.

If you choose to seek treatment, your doctor will be able to advise you on the appropriate course of action.In the event of symptoms such as headaches, high blood pressure, or high body temperature, you should seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may recommend inpatient treatment and medication therapy. Benzodiazepines are a type of drug used to treat anxiety, sleeplessness, and seizures. Anti-seizure and antipsychotic medications, as well as other medications, may be used.

Skyward Treatment Center Is the Source of Hope To Alcohol Addicts

If you plan to stop using alcohol or if you experience any withdrawal symptoms after stopping, you should seek medical help immediately. Withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening if they are not handled properly. It is possible to die from alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Call 911 right away if you think someone is suffering from alcohol poisoning. Do not be hesitant to ask for assistance. Talk to our health experts at Skyward Treatment Center to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment programs.