Alcohol withdrawal is a severe condition that affects heavy drinkers. It generally occurs when they abruptly stop drinking or drastically reduce the amount. It causes various physical and psychological symptoms, some of which can be severe and life-threatening without proper management. Below is a guide on the signs and how to recognize them.
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Stages of Alcohol Withdrawal
The stages of alcohol withdrawal can generally fall into three stages as follows;
- First Stage: They occur between 6 and 12 hours after a drink. The symptoms are mostly mild.
- Second Stage: It involves moderate symptoms, mainly occurring within 24 hours after the last drink.
- Third stage: at this point, the individual experiences severe symptoms, including seizures that can be fatal. Most heavy drinkers will experience this within 72 hrs of quitting alcohol.
Each stage has various symptoms, which typically worsen as time passes. It is a good move to try to improve your life by quitting alcohol. However, it would help if you did it safely to avoid risking your life. You should consult with experts like America’s Rehab Campuses to learn more about the best way to treat your addiction.
These are the main indicators that you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Headache and Dizziness
The first stages of quitting alcohol can come with a pounding headache and dizziness for most people. You may not experience it, but it could feel very uncomfortable if you do. Allow yourself to get enough rest and drink enough water. Avoid getting a drink no matter how much you crave it.
Nausea and Vomiting
Feeling nauseated and sometimes vomiting is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. You might feel as if you are sick with something else, but in most cases, it is just one of the signs of alcohol dependency.
Anxiety and Restlessness
You may experience some anxiety within the first 12 hours of quitting alcohol. If you start feeling restless, you should know you are experiencing some of the first withdrawal signs. Try to stay calm and keep yourself busy. You may get an urge to drink in the hope of calming down, but you should not.
Shaking and Tremors
In the first stages of alcohol withdrawal, you may experience some hand tremors. Your hands will involuntarily shake, and it may be impossible to conduct even some minor tasks. As time progresses, the shaking may move to your legs and even the whole body.
Being in an institution specializing in substance abuse recovery or having a medical professional around can save your life. If the tremors become severe, they can become life-threatening. If you or a loved one reach an extreme level, contact professionals for help.
Hallucinations
Hallucinations typically occur in severe cases of alcohol withdrawal. They can either be visual or auditory. You should keep an eye on a loved one trying to quit alcohol as, at this stage, they may not know what is real or fake. Being in an institution could aid in their recovery process.
Adopting a regular exercise routine can serve as an effective tool for mitigating the struggles associated with alcohol addiction. Not only does physical activity promote a healthier lifestyle, but it also distracts the mind from cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
A great place to start this journey is with under-desk ellipticals. These compact devices are perfect for those with busy schedules, as they allow you to incorporate exercise seamlessly into your daily routine. As you pedal away while working or studying, you might find that your desire for alcohol diminishes, replaced by a growing passion for physical health and wellness.
Recognizing Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Recognizing the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal is essential to ensure prompt treatment. If you or someone you love is experiencing a combination of any of the above signs, seek medical attention immediately. It is advisable to seek the assistance of rehab institutions once you want to stop drinking rather than facing it alone. With proper treatment and support, you can safely manage the transition.
