fbpx

Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal: Symptoms, Stages, and Treatment

alcohol withdrawal stages

“The whites of my eyes are white again, my urine is starting to look normal, and my bowel movements are getting normal. My energy level and mental alertness are way up, and it’s only getting better.” “My worst withdrawal symptom is that my brain does not seem to work very well. Lots of spelling errors and poor fine-motor skills. I will not even go into the insomnia.” “Physically, I feel fine now, but I still crave alcohol like crazy. That’s going to be the worst part.” “It’s the mood swings that scare me. One moment up, the next down, and no concentration. It’s hard to pretend to be happy and normal.” “Starting to feel a little better. If I had the money, I would have gone to a drug rehab statistics success rates 30-day rehab. I am still having shakes now and again. My head is in a fog constantly.”

Researchers theorize that alcohol withdrawal can permanently alter the brain, increasing seizure risk. People often stay unconscious for several minutes after a seizure while the brain recovers. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) happens when you stop drinking alcohol after heavy, long-term use. This is caused by the brain staying in an overly excited state triggered by constant alcohol exposure. While the above timeline is considered a general rule of thumb, it would be irresponsible to not mention the withdrawal timeline for alcoholics with severe issues with alcoholism. Some experts call the first stage of recovery the abstinence or acceptance stage.

At this point, it should be obvious that withdrawal symptoms create challenges within the recovery process. That’s why rehab administrators are so quick to recommend or prescribe detox programs. They usually make these determinations during the intake process, recognizing that certain clients won’t be suitable for therapy until the alcohol has been substantially removed from their bodies. Most people with mild to moderate alcohol withdrawal don’t need treatment in a hospital. But severe or complicated alcohol withdrawal can result in lengthy hospital stays and even time in the intensive care unit (ICU). Alcohol withdrawal is a challenging experience faced by individuals who abruptly reduce or stop heavy and prolonged alcohol consumption.

Social Support and Treatment Programs

Under the guidance of a health professional, the first step involves a series of exams. These physical exams, lab tests, and imaging tests assess organ damage from alcohol use. Since it’s a toxic substance, it can hurt or kill neurons responsible for normal brain function. If you recognize that you are displaying some of these symptoms, it’s probably time to think gallbladder and alcohol about getting help.

alcohol withdrawal stages

Factors that determine the timeline

Therefore, the risk of health problems with the heart and liver lessens. BetterHelp can connect you to an addiction and mental health counselor. Alcohol withdrawal is a severe condition that requires professional treatment to manage correctly. When you suddenly remove alcohol from the system, the brain rockland recovery treatment centers stays stimulated without the depressive effects of withdrawal.

Importance of Detox Programs

“It’s been really tough, constant inner voice trying to persuade me just the one-night drinking again would be OK. I have just had to surf the urges, keep busy, and use all my strength.” For many, it’s very difficult to get past the third day of unrelenting shakes and sweats without picking up a drink. “Last night was horrible. I was soaking wet with sweat, I jumped a few times in my sleep, and I had very vivid dreams.”

  1. The interaction between these substances can intensify their effects and increase dependence.
  2. And if you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, reach out for help today.
  3. After two weeks of abstinence, the benefits of no longer drinking at harmful levels continue to become evident.
  4. If left untreated, withdrawal can progress to complicated alcohol withdrawal.
  5. After 30 days of sobriety, physical withdrawal symptoms should be well in the past.

During this period, you can expect to develop new skills you may have never learned that made you more susceptible to AUD in the first place. If you’re ready to make a positive change, here’s what you may want to know about the recovery process. If you don’t already have a supportive network, you can make new connections by joining social media communities dedicated to alcohol-free living. For help quitting, resources are available from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).

An exciting part of this period is that it can lead you to a happier life full of welcomed change and constant improvement. Since withdrawal symptoms tend to ebb and flow, you may be tempted to feel like you’re not making progress ― even though in reality, you’ve come a long way. Behavioral health treatment for alcohol problems is often (but not always) covered by insurance. In the United States, most states have low-cost or free rehabilitation programs for those who are uninsured. Research shows people who have a supportive social network are more likely to remain alcohol-free after withdrawal. Those with a wider circle of support have a better chance of staying sober.

0
Select the fields to be shown. Others will be hidden. Drag and drop to rearrange the order.
  • Image
  • SKU
  • Rating
  • Price
  • Stock
  • Availability
  • Add to cart
  • Description
  • Content
  • Weight
  • Dimensions
  • Additional information
  • Attributes
  • Custom attributes
  • Custom fields
Compare
Wishlist 0
Open wishlist page Continue shopping