Recovery from alcohol addiction can be difficult. Some people might experience physical and mental ailments as a result of quitting drinking. Some withdrawal symptoms can be very severe and life-threatening. That’s why it’s advisable to seek medical assistance during alcohol detox. These are the alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Nausea And Vomiting
It is probably the most common of all symptoms. During detox, people might experience nausea and vomiting. While this is not life-threatening, it can be extremely uncomfortable and stressful. Severe discomfort often leads to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that can cause significant problems during treatment. A recovering addict should drink plenty of water during this time.
Sweating And Chills
Severe sweating during detox is an indication that the body temperature of the addict is elevated. It can be caused by a fever or other infections that might already be present and the stress and anxiety of undergoing treatment. Chills can also occur during detox, which can further aggravate cold-related illnesses like hypothermia and pneumonia. Recovering addicts need to keep themselves warm and dry during this time.
Abdominal Pain And Cramping
Intense pain in the abdomen may be present during alcohol withdrawal. The digestive system organs such as the stomach and intestines are irritated and inflamed. For some people, cramping can be intense and might be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Look for signs of dehydration, which can aggravate abdominal pain. Gastritis, a condition in which the stomach lining is inflamed, can also occur.
Headaches
Headaches can be caused by inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and dehydration, which is common during alcohol detox. Severe headaches can be very painful and might prevent a recovering addict from falling asleep or even waking up during sleep. That’s why it’s important to have a medical professional administer medications that can prevent headaches and ease the experience of alcohol withdrawal.
Restlessness And Anxiousness
Anxiety and Restlessness are common side effects of alcohol withdrawal. Severe anxiety can cause panic attacks, muscle twitching, hyperventilation, and other symptoms of anxiety disorders. If these are left untreated and unmonitored, they could lead to death. These symptoms will slow down the body’s normal functions and cause more harm to the addict.
Irritability And Aggression
Alcohol addiction often affects the behavior of addicts. During withdrawal, some will become irritable and aggressive. The changes in their brain chemistry and serotonin levels that accompany alcohol withdrawal may cause them to become more unbalanced than they already were. Constant agitation can lead to injuries and physical trauma, while anger can lead to domestic violence and resentment towards loved ones.
Tremors And Seizures
An electrical disturbance causes seizures in the brain. Alcoholics may experience tremors and involuntary muscle spasms during withdrawal. It can be a direct effect of alcohol withdrawal or indicate other medical conditions brought about by the alcohol. Seizures are very dangerous and must be monitored carefully.
Blues And Depression
The incidence of depression among alcoholics is much higher than in the general population. It is because addiction is a chemical condition that affects brain chemistry. The chemical changes in the brain caused by withdrawal can cause an imbalance in mood and behavior, especially during the first few days of detox. Low serotonin and dopamine levels often lead to low mood, feelings of sadness, and depressed feelings. While not necessarily dangerous, staying depressed for an extended period can lead to significant mental health issues.
Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the more debilitating symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. The increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure caused by anxiety can lead to fainting spells and heart attacks, which could be fatal. Recovering addicts need to heal themselves mentally and physically during detox. While in recovery, a patient needs to learn to take care of their mental and physical health. The fight continues.
Weight Loss
The body needs adequate nutrition to heal itself. Intake of food is often neglected during the early stages of alcohol withdrawal. It is because food makes the stomach feel bloated and nauseous. Many addicts will experience nausea and vomiting in the first few days of detox, especially if they have a fever or infection. An untreated patient may lose weight drastically while undergoing treatment, which could lead to muscle issues, liver problems, and even brain damage over time. In conclusion, if you or a loved one is suffering from alcohol addiction, it is best to seek help.
Alcohol detox can be a scary thing, but the right treatment plan and support group can lead to recovery. It is important to treat the patient as soon as possible as any delay in treatment will cause more harm in the long run. To get help identifying the alcohol withdrawal symptoms, call 772-266-5320.
