Needless to say, the decision to stop drinking alcohol (whether you are an alcohol abuser or alcoholic) might be one of the best choices you can ever make for your health and relationships. However, one question will probably be rattling in the back of your mind: how severe will my withdrawal be? If you have cut back on your drinks before, then you will definitely understand that alcohol detox is not the easiest process. In fact, in the case of hardcore alcoholics, each step can be harder and more painful than the first. Still, what can you expect during the process of alcohol withdrawal? Let’s take a closer look and find out more information about the irritating side effects and possibly dangerous conditions surrounding it.
Not Everyone Suffers from Withdrawal
Keep in mind that not everyone suffers from withdrawal when they cut back on booze. Mostly, men and women who have consumed this drug for a long period of time will experience a more difficult detox process. For people with underlying health problems, withdrawal can be particularly severe. Typical psychological symptoms can range from anxiety and depression to severe mood swings and nightmares, while physical symptoms can include severe headaches, cold sweats, nausea, heart palpitations, and severe tremors (or seizures).
The Risk of Delirium Tremens
In particularly dangerous withdrawal processes, alcoholics can suffer from a condition called delirium tremens, which can take place from 2 days (at minimum) to 10 days (at maximum) after you have consumed your final drink. However, this condition is more likely to happen to people who have not eaten food and only occurs among 5% of withdrawal patients. Symptoms include:
- Severe cases of confusion
- Hallucinations and delusions
- Fever
- A deep sleep that can last up to 3 days
- Severe mood swings
- Light sensitivity
- Restlessness or overwhelming energy
Withdrawal Treatment
We are happy to tell you that, with the proper medical treatment, alcohol withdrawal will rarely pose a threat to your health, and, in some cases, no symptoms will set in. Remember to always keep up your treatment, even if your withdrawal is painful. Many alcoholics are afraid to quit out of an overpowering fear of the detox process.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Although it can potentially protect you from heart attacks and strokes (in minimal amounts), alcohol is still a potentially dangerous drug that can drive a wedge in your private life and social life. However, with the right resources and a little determination, you can easily prevent one of these attacks and find a way to get your life back on track. By ditching alcohol, you will be doing yourself a huge favor and will be much happier living your life.
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.
