Alcoholism is a lonely condition where alcohol is often abused in private. Even when you seek out help, it is common to have concerns about the detox process and to wonder what you will feel like when you stop drinking. In some cases, the physical effects of withdrawal can be uncomfortable. The good news is that alcoholism withdrawal symptoms do not last long when you have access to the right alcohol addiction treatment program.
The Basics of Withdrawal
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, people who drink on occasion rarely develop alcohol withdrawal. Instead, it is those who get intoxicated daily that develop symptoms of withdrawal. In some cases, individuals maintain a constant exposure to alcohol. This level of drinking changes the functioning of the cells inside the brain, by allowing the cells to stay quiet and sedated, instead of active and firing. Alcoholism withdrawal symptoms occur when a person stops drinking and allows those sleepy cells to wake up once more.
Some people experience mild symptoms, including:
- Nightmares
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Depression
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue
- Irritability
People going through this process may feel as though they have a bad case of the flu. They may also feel very upset and unable to cope with the changes their bodies are going through. This time can be uncomfortable, but there are some people who have even more intense symptoms as their bodies adjust.
Early Treatment Is Key
Alcoholism, or alcohol addiction, is a progressive disease. Every day an individual continues to drink he increases the severity and length of alcoholism detox. Quitting early might be key to avoiding nasty alcohol detox episodes altogether. Additionally, quitting once and staying sober could be key to avoiding some of the more severe detox problems that are possible.
Every time a person tries to stop drinking, alcoholism withdrawal symptoms are worse than they were the time before. A condition called delirium tremens (or DTs) can take place. Some symptoms of this condition include uncontrollable trembling, severe anxiety, sweating, and hallucinations.
Dangerous Withdrawal Symptoms
Some people who have alcoholism may try to quit cold turkey on their own at home. If you experience any of the following alcoholism withdrawal symptoms, please seek out emergency medical treatment:
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Vomiting (in relation to seizures and not in response to overindulging in alcohol)
- Uncontrollable shaking
- Hallucinations
- Chills or profuse sweating
It is always best to seek professional help so you can get the care you need under the watchful eye of medical professionals. For more information, please call our helpline below.
What To Expect
When you first enter a detox program, you’ll be asked a series of questions. For example, admissions coordinators will want to know your history of drinking, as well as the amount of alcohol you have consumed in the previous week. The treatment team might ask you to describe any previous attempts at sobriety, including any negative sensations you have experienced. This information can help the team plan an approach that helps you achieve sobriety safely and comfortably.
Periodically, the treatment team will assess your physical health, and ask questions about your mental health. In a few days of this kind of care, you will likely be ready to progress to the next stage of treatment.
Follow-up care is vital, as detox programs aren’t considered a form of treatment. While a detox program can help you get sober, it does not address all the underlying reasons for the drinking. Therapy is the next step. When you talk through your issues with a professional counselor, it allows you to make lifestyle changes that promote longstanding health.
Treat Alcoholism Withdrawal Symptoms at Michael’s House
At Michael’s House, we understand that alcoholism withdrawal symptoms can be difficult. However, if you’re ready to tackle alcoholism, we’re ready to help.
We can assist you in fighting alcoholism withdrawal symptoms through inpatient alcohol rehab that includes alcohol detox with the help of consulting physicians. When our clients are sober, we transition them to a treatment team that can help them to make permanent changes that result in longstanding sobriety. Call 760-548-4032 today to learn more about alcohol detox and treatment at Michael’s House.