Dealing with Alcohol Withdrawal

“Excessive alcohol use led to approximately 88,000 deaths and 2.5 million years of potential life lost (YPLL) each year in the United States from 2006 – 2010, shortening the lives of those who died by an average of 30 years,” as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statistics.

The dangers of alcoholism are many, both short and long-term. Not only does it affect an alcoholic physically and mentally, it also drains the household finances. Alcoholism is not a weakness of the mind, as most people like to believe. It is a chronic disease and with a predictable course like every other ailment. Genes also have a major part to play apart from life situation in alcoholism.

Alcoholism and withdrawal symptoms

When somebody consumes alcohol, it initially enhances the neurotransmitter level producing a feeling of relaxation and calm. But over a period of time alcohol suppresses the activity of neurotransmitter and more alcohol is required to produce the desired effects. This phenomenon is known as tolerance.

In the advent of a person quitting alcohol abruptly the neurotransmitters which were previously suppressed by alcohol are no longer suppressed. As a result of this cessation of alcohol they rebound, resulting in a phenomenon known as brain hyperexcitability, and the effects are known as withdrawal symptoms which include anxiety, irritability, agitation, tremors, seizures, and delirium tremors (DT). 

Dealing with withdrawal symptoms

One of the most problematic areas in alcohol detox is the nagging withdrawal symptoms it entails. Being unable to cope with the difficult withdrawal symptoms, people often restart drinking and relapse very often. Withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening for chronic alcoholics. Withdrawal from alcohol can range from mild anxiety and shakiness to severe complications which include seizures and delirium tremens. Since alcohol withdrawal symptoms can gradually exacerbate, it is crucial to seek doctors’ advice. Being in the midst of experts and clinical staff at drug and alcohol rehab centers, it is easier to handle the withdrawal symptoms. 

Reaching out for help

Detoxification from alcohol is very much possible. With some help and support from family and friends, one can gain long-term sobriety. Though alcoholoutpatient treatment centers may not be as effective as inpatient drug rehab centers, it depends entirely on the practitioners what kind of rehab they find more suitable for the addicts depending on the severity of the problem.

If you or a loved one is grappling with alcoholism or any other addiction, the 247 Recovery Helpline is willing to help. Call our 24/7 helpline number 855-441-4405 for immediate assistance. With expert advice and help, long-term sobriety is just a phone call away.