Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms may occur when a person who has an addiction to alcohol suddenly stops using the substance.
The more alcohol you drink every day and the longer you have been doing so, the better chance you have of developing symptoms when you stop drinking.
When should I expect to come face to face with these symptoms?
There is no easy way of answering this question, due to the fact that everybody reacts differently.
It is not uncommon for symptoms to occur within 5 to 10 hours of the last drink. However, symptoms are typically at their peak within 48 to 72 hours of the last drink.
Note: alcohol withdrawal symptoms can last for several weeks.
Common Symptoms
Not everybody who stops drinking alcohol will experience withdrawal symptoms. Those who do are often times faced with the following:
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Nightmares
- Mood swings
- Headache
- Clammy skin
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Rapid heart rate
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Hand tremors
Symptoms that Require Medical Attention
While these are some of the most common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, there are others that do not occur as often but are much more serious:
- Seizures
- Fever
- Hallucinations
- Agitation
- Sense of confusion
Receive the Proper Medical Attention
Since the potential for alcohol withdrawal symptoms is very real, it is important to receive the proper medical attention. Many people realize that going through this process is best done at an in-patient treatment facility, as they will have access to 24 hour care as well as medication that can help ease the pain.
Outpatient treatment is also an option, which is typically best for those who are only facing mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms. With this type of treatment, it is still a good idea to have somebody who can watch over you, such as a family member or friend, while you are not at the treatment facility.
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms vary from one person to the next, based on a variety of factors including past drinking history, current level of health, and medical history.
Withdrawal symptoms can persist for a week or longer, but once this process is complete you can move on with additional treatment that can help you beat your addiction once and for all.
