Alcohol withdrawal is the process of your body adjusting to the absence of alcohol after prolonged and heavy drinking. This process can be uncomfortable and even life-threatening if not properly managed. Understanding the signs of alcohol withdrawal is essential to know when to seek medical treatment.
If you or a loved one have been drinking heavily and suddenly stopped, it is important to pay attention to potential signs of alcohol withdrawal. Call 888.492.5113 today to learn more about substance treatment at Calvary Healing Center and how we can help.
What Is Alcohol Withdrawal?
Alcohol withdrawal is the physical and mental changes that occur when an individual stops drinking alcohol after experiencing severe or chronic alcohol addiction. It happens due to an imbalance in the chemical and nervous systems of your body, which is the brain’s way of trying to regain balance without alcohol present. The severity of the withdrawal symptoms may vary from person to person and depend on their level of addiction.
Why Does Alcohol Withdrawal Happen?
People who struggle with alcohol addiction experience a change in their brain chemistry over time. After prolonged alcohol use, the brain becomes dependent on alcohol to function normally. This dependence alters how the brain works and how it communicates with the rest of the body. When the drinking stops, it can result in an abnormal activation of the central nervous system, leading to alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
What Are the Signs of Alcohol Withdrawal?
The onset of alcohol withdrawal symptoms can start as early as a few hours after the previous drink and last for several days. Some of the most common signs of alcohol withdrawal include:
- Tremors – Someone going through alcohol withdrawal may experience tremors, shaking, or trembling of their hands and body.
- Anxiety – Withdrawal from alcohol can cause sudden feelings of anxiety and panic attacks.
- Insomnia – Alcohol withdrawal often causes insomnia and an inability to fall asleep or stay asleep.
- Nausea and vomiting – Nausea is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal, along with vomiting and even diarrhea.
- Hallucinations – In some cases, an individual may experience visual or auditory hallucinations while going through alcohol withdrawal.
- Headaches – Withdrawal headaches are common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. They are usually throbbing in nature and can last for several days.
- Sweating – Sweating is a typical symptom of alcohol withdrawal. The sweating may be accompanied by flushing or redness of the skin.
- Confusion – Alcohol withdrawal can cause confusion, disorientation, and a feeling of being “out of it”.
- Memory problems – Memory issues are common during alcohol withdrawal and can last for several days after stopping drinking.
- Seizures – Finally, seizures are the most serious symptom of alcohol withdrawal and require immediate medical attention.
Going through withdrawal in a detox program is the most effective way to ensure your safety and reduce your risk of experiencing serious side effects during the process.
How Can Alcohol Addiction Treatment Help?
The best way to address alcohol addiction is with professional help. An alcohol addiction treatment program can provide medical and psychological care to transition you through the process of withdrawal. After detox, you can focus on building the skills necessary to remain sober. These might include things like cognitive-behavioral therapy, group or individual counseling, and relapse prevention strategies.
Call Calvary Healing Center Today for Alcohol Addiction Treatment
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, do not wait to reach out for help. Treatment can change your life. Call Calvary Healing Center today at 888.492.5113 or reach out online for more information about our substance abuse treatment programs and how we can help you find the path to recovery.