The most widely consumed psychoactive substance in the world. An intoxicating agent, ethyl alcohol, or ethanol, is produced from the fermentation of yeast, sugars, and starches. Though many people can consume alcohol responsibly and safely, excessive alcohol use can quickly lead to abuse and dependence. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found in a recent survey that 140 million Americans, 12 or older, use alcohol and 23% of these people are considered binge drinkers. Approximately 6% were considered heavy drinkers, and others met the criteria for an alcohol use disorder. According to these recent discoveries, unfortunately, an incredibly small percentage of these people with an alcohol use disorder sought treatment.

Effects of Alcohol on the Body

Throughout the body, alcohol exerts a pervasively negative physical influence. Sustained heavy use can cause significant damage to the brain, liver and heart. If you or someone you know abuse alcohol, it is imperative to seek treatment. With the many types available, you can get sober and with the right support stay sober, but all treatments start with a formal detoxification. Today, Meehab Addiction Recovery would like to talk about the withdrawal of alcohol many experience.

Signs of Alcohol Withdrawal

The signs of alcohol withdrawal can vary. In some rare cases, few patients can go through a severe and specific set of alcohol withdrawal symptoms that is referenced as delirium tremens or DT. DT is characterized by profound confusion and may be accompanied with any of the following:
– Tremors
– Disorientation
– Agitation
– Hallucination
– Increased blood pressure
– Increased heart rate
– Fever
– Seizures
– Sweating

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

A number of distressing symptoms can be produced from alcohol withdrawal. From a full spectrum, the mild discomfort to excruciatingly severe, the withdrawal symptoms can span to even life threatening levels. Symptoms can include:
– Agitation
– Anxiety
– Confusion
– Cravings
– Fear
– Hallucinations
– Headache
– Heart Palpitations
– Insomnia
– Nausea
– Nightmares
– Quick Mood Changes
– Seizures (Commonly in 1st 48 hours)
– Sweating
– Tremors
– Weakness

Past Withdrawal History

There are different factors that affect alcohol withdrawals. The severity of symptoms depends on a number of factors and the withdrawals from alcohol can be complex. Such factors include age of the individual, alcohol use, such as the level consumption, frequency, and length of use, if the person used additional substances, and past withdrawal history, as well as peak blood alcohol levels. Another important factor in alcohol withdrawal is the past withdrawal history. A potential risk for severe withdrawal episodes in the future can occur if three or more past withdrawal periods, particularly if any one period was severe. Additionally, you are at risk of experiencing the significant adverse effects of alcohol withdrawal with any longstanding abuse of alcohol.

Support for Alcohol Abuse Recovery

It is in your better interest to get an assessment from a physician or alcohol addiction specialist to better determine what method of detoxification is right for you. An inpatient program and additional treatment options might be more appropriate. Detoxifying can be very dangerous unsupervised. We invite you to download our helpful app for free today. To learn more, click here. To download for free on android, click here. To download for free on iphone, click here.