The prolonged usage of alcohol can lead to addiction, whereby the body depends on the drug to function. In case a user fails to drink, they may experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Unfortunately, these side effects can be painful, uncomfortable, and sometimes life-threatening. This aspect makes it hard for most people to quit drinking without professional alcohol detox help at a facility such as Wellness Counseling Vida Entera.
What Causes Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?
Alcohol consumption affects the nervous system and influences other activities, such as thinking. Moreover, this drug suppresses neurotransmitters in the brain, causing a sedative effect. Therefore, when a person takes alcohol, they may feel happy, friendly, and relaxed. Yet, continued use of this drug causes physical dependence and increased tolerance. So, a person may need to consume a higher amount to get the same effect they obtained from a lower amount.
Once a person quits drinking, their body struggles to adjust to the absence of the drug. During this process, one is likely to experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can set in eight hours after the last drink. The intensity of the effects depends on addiction and the presence or absence of other conditions. Moreover, stress and childhood trauma increases the withdrawal effects. Some people may also use alcohol alongside other drugs such as cocaine and benzos. This behavior causes side effects that are not related to alcohol abuse, such as a coma.
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can occur in three stages, which may take 5 to 7 days. The first stage of alcohol withdrawal symptoms begins eight hours after cessation. A user may experience side effects such as abdominal pain, anxiety, and nausea.
The intensity of the symptoms may increase in the second withdrawal stage. This stage occurs about 24 to 72 hours after a person takes the last alcohol drink. A person can experience increased blood pressure, confusion, and high body temperature. In some cases, withdrawal can cause delirium tremens, which can be fatal. This form of withdrawal may lead to confusion, shaking, fever, insomnia, and hallucinations.
The most common symptoms experienced in the third stage are agitation, sweating, and seizures. This stage may set in approximately 2 to 4 days after the last alcoholic drink.
How to Treat Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms at Wellness Counseling Vida Entera
The intensity of alcohol withdrawal symptoms can change within a short period. Hence, one should seek professional help once they decide to stop using the drug. Addiction treatment centers provide a variety of customized alcohol treatment programs. Some of the most common addiction treatment plans are:
- Residential addiction treatment programs: Facilities that offer this plan will observe patients during treatment to enhance safety. Moreover, they can administer medication to help a person reduce the effects of withdrawal.
- Outpatient rehab programs: This plan allows one to continue with their daily activities while undergoing treatment. It is suitable for a person with a less severe addiction as one may still encounter drinking triggers during treatment.
- Dual diagnosis program: This is a plan used to treat alcohol addiction for patients with other health conditions. Such may include depression, anxiety, bipolar and eating conditions.
- Partial hospitalization program: This program allows one to attend addiction treatment during the day. Moreover, one may undergo therapies to help them avoid drinking triggers.
Withdrawing from alcohol can cause side effects, which may require emergency medical attention. At Wellness Counseling Vida Entera, we provide supervision during addiction treatment. Our medical team evaluates a client’s state to create an effective treatment plan. Moreover, we advise patients on how to avoid triggers after completing addiction treatment. This measure can help you avoid relapsing or seek help when you identify signs of a relapse.
Contact Wellness Counseling Vida Entera at 951.400.0082 to start a sober life.
