Needless to say, if you have ever known an alcoholic or are a fully-recovered alcoholic, you are definitely knowledgeable about the grim reality of hangovers. A form of short-term withdrawal, this unpleasant “morning-after” visitor hits without mercy and serves as your body’s grim reminder for why you shouldn’t consume addictive drugs. After all, the body can only metabolize so much alcohol in a certain amount of time. While we might like to make fun of the title at times (after all, a movie was named after this condition), hangovers can be potentially deadly and lead to life-threatening health problems. In the blink of an eye, photosensitivity can turn into seizures and hallucinations. Let’s take a closer look at the real danger of hangovers.
The Pain of a Hangover
Based on an article from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), hangovers can usually include one or several of the following symptoms:
- Overwhelming fatigue and weakness
- Severe muscle aches and headaches
- Gastrointestinal problems (stomach pain, nausea, vomiting)
- Disrupted sleep cycle
- Severe cases of vertigo and light/sound sensitivity
- Inability to concentrate
- Emotional problems (depression, anxiety, anger)
- Tremors and sweating
- High heart rate and systolic blood pressure
Typically, hangovers will begin to take place in the window of several hours after the last drink was consumed. Unfortunately, though, the symptoms will get worse as the drug leaves the system, and, once an alcohol consumer’s blood-alcohol content (BAC) reaches zero, the hangover will hit with full force. Hangovers can last up to 24 hours.
A Danger to Your Life
Although a large portion of people might be able to “shake off” a hangover, keep in mind that this incident is technically a form of withdrawal. In many cases, too, the excessive consumption of booze can lead to conditions like blood-alcohol poisoning (which can potentially end a person’s life). If you have a friend who is suffering from this severe condition, always call 9-1-1 and attempt to keep them conscious or stable.
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 night sweats, hallucinations, fevers, anxiety, and sadness, but always remember that 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.
