What is Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome?
Do you think you’ve ever experienced Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome?
Have you tried to withdraw from alcohol on your own?
Most people can handle moderate alcohol consumption without developing a problem. Many cannot. An estimated 32 million Americans—more than 10% of America’s population—are addicted to alcohol.
If you’ve been drinking heavily for weeks, months or years, you may experience mental and physical difficulties should you try to cut back or stop drinking. This is called withdrawal. Its symptoms can range from mild to very serious.
If you or someone you love is addicted to alcohol, we can help. Recognizing you need help is a vitally important first step.
What Are the Symptoms?
Mild symptoms usually show up as early as 6 hours after you put down your glass. They can include:
- Anxiety
- Shaky hands
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Insomnia
- Sweating
More severe symptoms range from hallucinations (about 12 to 24 hours after that last drink) to seizures (within the first 2 days after you stop).
Delirium Tremens (DT)
Delirium tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal. It involves sudden and severe mental or nervous system changes. DTs commonly affect people who have used alcohol for more than 10 years.
DT symptoms can include:
- Delirium, which is sudden severe confusion
- Body tremors
- Changes in mental function
- Agitation, irritability
- Deep sleep that lasts for a day or longer
- Excitement or fear
- Hallucinations (seeing or feeling things that are not really there)
- Bursts of energy
- Quick mood changes
- Restlessness, excitement
- Sensitivity to light, sound, touch
What Causes Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome?
Alcohol has a depressive effect on your system. It slows down your brain function and changes the way your nerves send messages back and forth. Over time, your system adjusts to the presence of alcohol and its effects. When you stop drinking, your body reacts, craving—this is what causes withdrawal symptoms.
If you are looking into recovery for yourself or someone you love, we’d love to help guide you along this journey. Speak confidentially with a counselor right now at (888) 837-6577.
The Advantages of Detoxing in a Treatment Program
In a qualified and capable treatment program, you’ll have medical and addiction professionals walk this path with you. Not only do you spare loved ones this difficult assignment, but you are able to lean on experienced professionals who’ve done this, successfully, many times over. They’ve seen it all and helped people through it. They know what to expect, how to respond, and have the necessary tools to help you at their discretion.
We can help. Let us assist you in every step towards a complete recovery.
At Honey Lake Clinic, we understand that substance abuse is a complex and dangerous mental health concern, affecting not only the one in its grip, but also others. Our experienced staff, licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatric specialists, strongly believe that faith-based treatment, encompassing mind, body and spirit, will provide you with the long-lasting tools and knowledge to find freedom from substance abuse.
