For many people, quitting “cold turkey” can be one of the most courageous acts of their lives, but, in the case of alcoholics, particularly long-term ones, this decision can be life-threatening. Keep in mind that the attachment to this drug is infamously strong, resulting in a terrible landslide of dangerous side effects after the substance starts to leave the body. Although some forms of alcohol withdrawal are not severe and can be ridden out without supervision, you must understand that you cannot predict how your body will react to the attachment suddenly being shattered. You can literally go into shock. Here are some facts that will help you understand the true nature of alcohol withdrawal.
“Never Again” Is a No-Go
Even if you haven’t known an alcoholic or suffered from alcoholism yourself, you have probably heard this story before: after going on a particularly nasty binge, a drinker will suffer from a five-alarm hangover and swear a solemn oath to “never touch a drop of booze again.” However, once those cravings start to kick back in, any hope of quitting cold turkey loses footing. Fighting withdrawal symptoms without medical intervention is not only foolish but also dangerous.
Various Symptoms Laid out
Typically, individuals who suffer from light dependency, or none at all, will only experience irritating symptoms like night sweats, chills, shaking, a rapid-fire heart rate, and a rise in blood pressure. Nothing too risky. However, these men and women will still suffer from cravings for their drug of choice. Keep in mind that “hangovers” are technically forms of withdrawal.
For individuals who suffer from severe alcoholism, though, the situation can become far more dangerous. In the window of six to forty-eight hours, victims may suffer from vivid hallucinations (involving sight, smell, and hearing) and seizures. In the period of three to five days, these symptoms can increase until a person begins to suffer from delirium tremens (DTs), characterized by severe hallucinations, disorientation, and cardiovascular problems, and can potentially become fatal.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Alcohol withdrawal can easily be one of the most frightening aspects of healing. During the course of the recovery process, you will suffer from minor to severe symptoms that may include hallucinations, fevers, anxiety, and sadness, but always remember: you can find the strength to overcome these problems. However, you must always seek medical attention when you have decided to cut ties with alcohol, as the withdrawal process can be notoriously dangerous. Never attempt to do this without the supervision of a trained specialist.
If you are suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or alcohol abuse or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
