Withdrawal Symptoms Of Alcohol

How To Deal With Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome

admin — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 19:48:34 +0000

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is the set of symptoms that are manifested when a person who has become dependent on alcohol stops drinking.

If the individual has become physically dependent as well as psychologically dependent, the symptoms will be physical in nature. They vary from mild to severe, but can potentially be fatal.

The variation in severity of the withdrawal symptoms depends on various factors, the most important of which of course are how much alcohol the person has been taking, and how long they have been taking it. Other influences include age, weight and general health, and can possibly include genetic factors as well. The symptoms can also be made more severe if the person is dependent on other substances of this type – that is, sedative-hypnotic substances. If the symptoms are very severe, the patient may need to be admitted to hospital.

The main reason people experience physical symptoms when stopping drinking is the sudden drop in the alcohol level in the blood. This affects the central nervous system and drives the nerves and brain into a state of extreme excitability. This results in the mental confusion which can be manifested in cases of severe withdrawal. The physical condition can also be complicated by the liver damage which has probably occurred.

Most people have in fact experienced alcohol withdrawal syndrome in its mildest form, when they over-indulge one night to an unaccustomed degree, and have a hangover the next morning. This is the result of withdrawal as the blood alcohol level begins to drop, and symptoms can include headache, nausea, and anxiety or depression. Other mild symptoms can include the sweats or the shakes, and a rapid heartbeat, plus an intense craving for drink. These symptoms can be fairly quickly alleviated by having another drink, which of course makes it much harder for the person to stick to the decision to stop drinking.

However, if consumption has been prolonged and heavy, there can be much more severe symptoms including hallucinations, which can be visual only, or aural as well. These are caused by the effect of blood changes on the brain. They can continue for weeks and can be accompanied by seizures or convulsions. The next stage can be full DTs or delirium tremens, which includes not only hallucinations but extreme disorientation and confusion, accompanied by cardiovascular disturbance.

If symptoms progress to this stage, the sufferer must be admitted to hospital. However, milder cases of alcohol withdrawal syndrome can be dealt with in the community. An effective medication is a regular dose of complex vitamins such as Thiamine, plus a good diet and keeping well hydrated. Much more important than medical treatment is a supportive environment, where sufferers can be helped in their determination to stay away from drink.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms: Seizures

admin — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 19:47:09 +0000

One of the hardest things that any addict or alcoholic has to go through when trying to quit is withdrawal.

Substance abusers over time develop a chemical dependency on their substance of choice. Not only has the abuse conditioned their mind to become dependent on the intake of a substance, but their bodies have also become reliant on the presence of the substance in their system.

Not everyone who quits cold turkey on alcohol has withdrawal symptoms but most people who have developed a dependence on alcohol do. Depending on a person’s level of dependency, the symptoms of withdrawal can range from mild to severe and even possibly life threatening. These “mild” physical symptoms may include nausea, insomnia, heart palpitations and loss of appetite and these could also be accompanied by psychological symptoms like anxiety, irritability, depression and fatigue. Severe symptoms may include alcohol withdrawal seizures, fever, and hallucinations.

Mild to moderate symptoms can be manageable but the severe symptoms may require proper facilities and medical attention. Mild to moderate alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be eased along with support and encouragement but support and encouragement, though valuable, will not be enough for those who have severe symptoms. Seizures in particular can be quite frightening for an inexperienced onlooker and especially for the patient as well.

Seizures can be relatively harmless but prolonged and repeated seizures, specifically in this case, alcohol withdrawal seizures can be potentially fatal. The patient can risk asphyxiation and brain damage from a seizure. Should a person have a seizure for the first time, it is important to keep their head cushioned and to lay them on the ground in a safe area. It may seem like a good idea to restrain a person who is having alcohol withdrawal seizures but it is better to merely keep them safe; at the time of the convulsions they are not aware of what is happening and they have no control over their bodies. It is important to ensure that nothing is blocking their air passage and to try to keep them on their side in case they vomit.

Hallucinations and alcohol withdrawal seizures are uncontrollable and without proper care, the patient may cause harm not only to himself but also to others. There are many treatments available for recovering alcoholics and a number of facilities also offer specialized treatment. Some facilities will have inhouse detoxification services while others would have patients go through the detoxification at a separate facility. The length of time spent in a facility will vary but for the most part any patient can choose to walk out of the facility even if the treatment has not yet been finished. It is important then to be resolute and to personally commit to staying and finishing the treatment.

Treatment For Alcohol Withdrawal

admin — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 19:46:13 +0000

Alcohol withdrawal treatment is a serious thing.

The symptoms can range from mild anxiety all the way through delirium tremens and death, with all manner of things in between. This is a major problem and needs to be treated a such.

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms appear when a person who has been drinking an amount of alcohol every day for a long period of time suddenly quits drinking at all for whatever reason. The symptoms generally start within five to ten hours after stopping, but can happen many days later. They may begin as mild symptoms and then sudden become catastrophically worse after forty-eight to seventy-two hours.

Mild symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can include, but are not limited to, nervousness or anxiety, depression, unclear thoughts and confusion, fatigue, being irritable, being shaky, nightmares, and mood swings. As they get worse they can include clammy skin, enlarged pupils, a headache, trouble sleeping, loss of a normal appetite, nausea, heart palpitations, and a mild tremor in various body parts. If they progress to the severe symptoms of delirium tremens the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal may include severe agitation and aggression, severe confusion, hallucinations, a significant fever, and seizures, and if not treated, death.

Basically the treatment for alcohol withdrawal it to treat the symptoms as they manifest and keep the person alive long enough for his or her body to rid itself to the alcohol dependence. The healthcare provider may perform a physical exam during which he or she will be looking for several things like abnormal eye movements, abnormal heart rhythms, dehydration, fever, rapid breathing, rapid pulse, shaky hands or other body parts, all of which may indicate alcohol withdrawal. He or she may then perform blood and/or urine tests which probably will include a toxicology screen to see what the drug being withdrawn from is.

The goals of alcohol withdrawal treatment is to reduce the withdrawal symptoms, prevent other complications from arising, and to establish a treatment or therapy program to help the sufferer stop drinking for life. The treatments may take place as an inpatient at a hospital if the symptoms are moderate to severe in nature. Things such as monitoring blood pressure, body temperature, and the levels of chemicals in the blood are most liable to be ordered. IV fluids may be necessary to keep the fluids in the blood stable or to rehydrate the body. Sedation using benzodiazapines may be needed until the withdrawal is complete. The patient will have to be closely monitored for the onset of delirium tremens and its associated hallucinations and seizures.

For the mild to moderate symptoms an outpatient regimen may be prescribed. The patient will need to have a companion who can watch for an escalation of symptoms and call for help if needed as well as to be sure that the patient keeps hydrated. Also the companion will need to be sure the patient goes to his or her physician for daily checkups until the immediate instability is over.

Duration Of Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

admin — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 19:45:26 +0000

No one can provide the exact time frame of the duration of alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

However, it is possible to learn what factors go into how long the symptoms will last, as well as how severe they may be. There is also a general time frame that may offer some insight as to what to expect when quitting.

The onset of symptoms can begin as soon as six hours after the last drink is consumed. For some, it may be as long as twenty four hours. This is strictly based on the level of addition, and how frequently the body is used to receiving the alcohol that it now needs. Most symptoms start off mildly, and increase over time.

How severe a detox will become, as well as the duration of alcohol withdrawal symptoms is based on the level of addition. Some research shows that body composition and genetics may also play a part. There are many complicated factors to consider, and this is why no one can precisely determine how long a complete detox will take.

One thing that is certain is that symptoms will at some point reach their peak, and then begin to subside. This tends to happen around day two or three of the detox process. This peak can last for quite a while, and during this time, monitoring will be necessary. People have died while going through detoxification. Medical help may be required if blackouts, seizures, or a high fever is present.

In some cases, a second peak may occur. While this is the exception, those that wish to quit should know that this is a possibility. This is yet another reason to not quit alone. Having someone that can stay with you throughout the entire process is highly advisable. It is also advisable for heavy drinkers to consult with a physician before quitting.

Once the peak is over, the duration of alcohol withdrawal symptoms will vary, but should get easier. It is important for those that wish to quit to understand that this will not last for ever. Quitting can be quite unpleasant, but there is light at the end of the tunnel once these symptoms run their course.

Detox programs can range from one week to one month. These programs are a safer way to quit, as they provide medical supervision throughout the process. Additionally, they provide the mental support that may be necessary in order to see this through.

Though no one can tell you the exact duration of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, if you are someone that wishes to quit, know that the unpleasant side effects will not last forever.

The Stages of Alchohol Withdrawal

admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 19:45:13 +0000

When you stop drinking, your body will have to adjust to the lack of alcohol in your system.

This process is known as alcohol withdrawal. Most former drinkers experience a number of different symptoms as they go through the stages of this process. Listed below are some facts about the stages of withdrawal and the accompanying symptoms.

Stage One: Acute Withdrawal

Every alcoholic experiences the first stage of withdrawal differently. Some experience significant emotional effects, while others deal with serious physical side effects. When you stop drinking, your body will find itself once again producing certain neurotransmitters that had been previously lacking. The resulting surge in these transmitters will lead to your withdrawal symptoms.
The first of the stages of alcohol withdrawal is acute withdrawal. During this stage, many former drinks find themselves dealing with relatively serious symptoms. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are amongst the most common physical symptoms, along with tightness in the chest, sweating, and tremors. More serious physical effects can include strokes, heart attacks, and delirium tremens. Emotions tend to swing wildly in this state, with anxiety, depression, and irritability being quite common.

Stage Two: Post-Acute Withdrawal

The next of the stages of alcohol withdrawal is post-acute withdrawal. In short, this stage consists of your body finally returning to a normal state. Physical symptoms are likely to stop, but the emotional toll of years of alcohol abuse on your system will still be in full force. Most former drinkers experience a difficult in sleeping during this stage, along with mood swings, irritability, and anxiety. The good news is that the symptoms themselves only tend to last a few days. The bad news is that episodes involving these symptoms may last for up to two years. Relaxation techniques are important to get through this part of the process, and those that are not carefully following some sort of regimen can often find themselves in the middle of a period of relapse.

Stage Three: Recovery

The last of the stages of alcohol withdrawal is recovery. This stage comes after post-acute withdrawal, with the majority of the symptoms finally disappearing. This unfortunately does not mean that a recovering alcoholic is “cured” of an alcohol dependency; it is still quite easy to relapse, a process which can send the body back into a dependency on alcohol. This period of withdrawal lasts for a lifetime, and is easier to manage for some than it is for others. Recovering alcoholics may experience an urge to drink during periods of high stress or during periods of emotional instability.

A Look at the Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Timeline

admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 19:42:55 +0000

The alcohol withdrawal symptoms timeline can vary dramatically from person to person.

In general, the severity can range from mild to severe depending on how much alcohol the individual consumes at one time and how long he has been drinking. Also, it will depend on how dependent the individual body is on the alcohol. Because of this chemical dependency, withdrawal is often quite difficult and the alcohol withdrawal timeline changes.

Alcohol is like a drug in that a person can become addicted to it and can find it extremely difficult to quit drinking. It is almost impossible for a moderate to heavy drinker to give up alcohol without some help from either a doctor or another professional. Very often, it is necessary for this person to enroll in some kind of rehabilitation program that focuses on group therapy, medications and constant supervision since some withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening.

For a dependent person, the alcohol withdrawal symptom timeline can start within a few hours of having a drink. The entire process may only last a few days but can extend to weeks or even months. In fact, some symptoms may follow the individual for years or may result in a permanent change either mentally, emotionally or physically.

Mild symptoms may be just barely noticeable by others. They can include shaking, especially of the extremities, waking up in a deep sweat and increased blood pressure and heart rate. Objective symptoms may include gastrointestinal pain and nausea, mild to severe headaches and a feeling of depression or anxiety. Although these symptoms are excruciating, the individual will most likely still desire to have another drink. However, if he takes another, it will only mean that he will have to go through the same symptoms at a later time.

On the other hand, some symptoms may be so severe that hospitalization may be necessary. For example, if the person is experiencing hallucinations or delusions, whether auditory, visual or other, or if he is becoming dangerous to himself or others, he would be best cared for at a psychiatric center. Hospitalization should occur if seizures begin or if any of his vital signs rise or drop to a dangerous level.

The medical term for this sort of severe symptoms is delirium tremens. Usually, these symptoms begin approximately forty eight hours after the last drink was consumed. Drugs known as benzodiazepines are often given in the hospital for this issue; this medication calms the nervous system.

As has been shown, the alcohol withdrawal symptoms timeline can vary significantly based on the individual, his history of alcohol abuse and how his body responds to alcohol. Quitting alcohol is not a mission that anyone should undertake alone.

Start Living Soberly with Successful Alcohol Detox

admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 19:42:14 +0000

Alcohol detox is perhaps the definitive step on the path to living a life free of alcohol dependency, but it can also be the most dangerous part of the recovery process if not attempted carefully.

Far from being simply a matter of no longer indulging, many people do not realize the tremendous hold that such substances truly have on their bodies until they attempt to quit drinking. As the degree of addiction often varies from one person to another, consulting an addiction counselor or qualified medical professional would be advised before attempting any type of therapy. Such considerations notwithstanding, successful detoxification is increasingly common and more likely to be followed up with comprehensive treatment.

Any preexisting health issues should be acknowledged before you go through detoxification, as alcohol detox can be quite jarring to your bodily systems. Withdrawal symptoms may in fact range from mild headaches and slight shaking to conditions as serious as delirium and convulsions. While most people can successfully complete the process of ridding their bodies of alcohol by participating in outpatient programs, some people need to be monitored more closely and thus require inpatient treatment. If you have a history of failed detoxification attempts, severe symptoms, a potentially interfering illness or condition, or lack sufficient support once you do become sober, inpatient detoxification may be the best choice.

Depending upon your mental and physical state when you begin alcohol detox, certain prescription drugs may be recommended as a way to keep any mental or physical discomfort to a minimum. While starting a drug regimen while wanting to rid your body of another substance may seem unusual, intolerable physical pain or mental anguish may cause you to forgo the typical three to fourteen days needed to sufficiently rid your body of alcohol. Once you have made it past this crucial point, you may be ready for the many treatment options designed to nurture your body, mind, and spirit. Your willingness to move forward, along with a reliable support network, may help you stay sober and avoid a relapse.

Many hospitals and care facilities have associated outreach programs designed to support anyone trying to live soberly, and often offer forums and instruction for concerned family and friends as well. Accordingly, some people find that treatment hotlines or online forums provide discreet and safe ways to receive helpful spiritual and emotional support and share successes and frustrations as they work on their sobriety. Conversely, many people find getting out amongst others who are trying to stay sober and meeting as often as needed to be the best form of therapy.

How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last?

admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 19:41:33 +0000

Alcohol withdrawal can be defined as the adverse side effects which affect an alcoholic if he / she fails to consume alcohol over an extended period of time.

How long does alcohol withdrawal last? The longer the person has been an alcoholic, the more pronounced the withdrawal symptoms will be. The symptoms would be more severe if you suffer from other specific medical conditions. Basically, alcohol withdrawal symptoms occur because an interruption of continuous exposure to excessive alcohol adversely affects the central nervous system. The symptoms should however not be confused with a hangover because a hangover normally does not last for several days.

Brain Damage
It is imperative to firstly understand that consuming excessive amounts of alcohol over a long time would adversely affect your brain cell activity. Actually, a daily intake of alcohol eventually hinders or slows responsiveness and alertness. An interruption of alcohol consumption causes hyperactivity in the brain for a period of time until the neurotransmitters settle down to a normal balance again. This period of hyperactivity and balancing is referred to as withdrawal.

How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last?
The severity and duration of alcohol withdrawal varies from one person to another depending on several factors which include age, the person’s central nervous mechanisms, genetic or hereditary influences, and the general pattern and amount of alcohol consumption. Some people will suffer mild withdrawal symptoms such as hand tremors, night sweats, and nausea for a week while heavy drinkers may suffer severe symptoms such as flu-like conditions and chronic headaches for a month after their last drink. Such heavy drinkers will experience life-threatening withdrawal symptoms such as hallucinations and convulsions in the first ten days. In some cases a heavy drinker will suffer from a serious condition called delirium tremens (DTs) after 3 to 5 days without alcohol. In such cases the alcoholic will need to be hospitalized and monitored for high blood pressure, heart attacks, and other life-threatening symptoms for 5 days.

Short-Term Fix
There are short-term and long-term solutions to assist former alcoholics to overcome craving for a year or more until they adjust to their alcohol-free lives. Short term measures include prescription drugs which include Depade and ReVia that help to reduce cravings as well as Antabuse which makes the alcoholic sick if he or she consumes alcohol while taking it. Depade and ReVia have no side effects.

Medical Attention
There are many people, however, who can stop or reduce alcohol intake with minimum withdrawal effects. In such cases withdrawal usually begins six or eight hours after the last drink. How long does alcohol withdraw last in such individuals? It might last up to seven days. During this time they will usually experience interrupted sleep patterns and loss of attention for even a month. It is important to seek for medical assistance if you are a heavy drinker and would like to suddenly stop drinking. This is because medical specialists are well equipped with the best methods to ease withdrawal discomforts.