There are several options available when it comes to the treatment of alcohol withdrawal. While medically-aided detox is a relatively safe way to go about it, there are several reasons why you might want to consider non-medical methods of detoxification. One of those is that these options are safer.
Hallucinations
Alcohol withdrawal can be a very difficult process. In many cases, it requires the services of a professional medical detox center. These specialists will monitor you for any complications.
Several factors determine the severity of your alcohol withdrawal symptoms. They include the length of time you've been drinking and the amount of alcohol you have consumed.
During this period, your body will gradually get used to the absence of alcohol. This can be done over a few days or a week.
During your alcohol detox, you may have minor symptoms, such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal disturbances. When you quit drinking, you may also experience pain. However, most of these symptoms disappear within five to seven days.
Seizures
There are several medications that are commonly prescribed to help alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. These include benzodiazepines and anticonvulsants.
Benzodiazepines are a powerful drug that can help ease the pain of withdrawal. They work by slowing down the activity of the central nervous system. This is useful because alcohol can cause physical and psychological complications.
Other drugs used to relieve the discomfort of alcohol detox may include anticonvulsants, levetiracetam, valproic acid, and gabapentin. Although these drugs do help, they carry risks of their own. For this reason, you should seek medical supervision when you quit drinking.
One of the most common and severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal is delirium tremens. Also known as DTs, this symptom is not only debilitating but also fatal. The best treatment for DTs is early intervention.
Heart failure
The effects of alcohol on your heart can be life-threatening. Alcohol can cause heart failure by causing an enlarged heart and weakening the muscle. If your heart is weakened, it can't pump blood efficiently, which can lead to problems with breathing and passing out.
In some cases, the effects of alcohol can be reversed. If you're a heavy drinker, it's recommended that you consider a rehab program. These programs offer medical care and group therapy to help you transition to a sober lifestyle.
Aside from the effects on your heart, alcohol can also harm other organs. It can raise your blood pressure and cause liver damage, among other health issues.
Delirium Tremens
Delirium tremens is a potentially deadly medical condition that occurs in some people who suddenly stop drinking alcohol. In these cases, severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, seizures, and cardiovascular collapse can occur. Without proper treatment, these symptoms can be fatal.
People with a history of delirium tremens have a higher risk of developing this condition. Symptoms of DTs may appear within 48 hours after the abrupt cessation of alcohol consumption. DTs are typically accompanied by other symptoms of withdrawal, such as anxiety, irritability, and diaphoresis.
People with a history of heavy alcohol abuse are more likely to experience delirium tremens. They have experienced a lifetime of alcohol use disorder, resulting in increased neuroreceptor upregulation.
Safer than medically aided
The fact is that if you or a loved one has a problem with alcohol then you may be considering a medically assisted detox. Medications can be life saving, but you are still at risk of relapse if you don't properly manage the process. Fortunately, there are many centers available that can provide the necessary care. Most will be able to assess your situation and offer a personalized treatment plan for your needs.
Choosing the right facility is the first step to success. There are several key factors to consider. One is the quality of the facilities and services they offer. Another is the size of the facility, and their ability to meet your individual needs. Lastly, the location of the facility plays a large role in your overall wellbeing.
Symptoms of withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal is a painful process. It can be dangerous, even fatal, if left untreated. However, you can survive and get back to a normal life. There are a variety of techniques you can use to avoid withdrawal, including medically assisted detox. You can also seek counseling and shelter programs to help you cope with your addiction.
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can vary in severity, depending on a number of factors. The length of time you've been drinking, your body's chemistry, and your personal history all play a role.
A mild withdrawal may only last a few hours. However, if you have been drinking heavily for a long time, you'll likely experience symptoms for a longer period of time.
