Many of the alcoholics realize that the liquor is slowly killing them, and they try to stop consuming. However, the problem here is that they start showing withdrawal symptoms which forces them to revert to their old habit.
A sudden withdrawal from alcohol leads to severe withdrawal symptoms, which is very serious and in certain rare situations, they can often be fatal too.
Alcohol withdrawal occurs when an individual who has been drinking heavily for a prolonged period of time suddenly stops or significantly reduces their alcohol intake. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, can even be life-threatening.
Below are some of the most common alcohol withdrawal symptoms:
Mild symptoms include tremors, anxiety, and insomnia. Tremors typically occur within a few hours of the last drink and are most common in the hands but can also affect the head, eyelids, and tongue.
Anxiety can range from mild unease to severe panic attacks. Insomnia can occur due to the brain’s hyperactivity during withdrawal, and it may last for several days.
Moderate symptoms include seizures, hallucinations, and increased heart rate. Seizures typically occur within 24-48 hours of the last drink and can range from mild to severe.
Hallucinations can occur in any sensory modality, including visual, auditory, and tactile. Increased heart rate can occur due to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s fight or flight response.
Severe symptoms include delirium tremens (DTs), which is a medical emergency. DTs typically occur within 48-72 hours of the last drink and can include confusion, severe tremors, hallucinations, and seizures. Other severe symptoms can include fever, severe dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.
It is important to seek medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms, especially if they are moderate to severe. Doctors can provide medications to help manage symptoms and prevent complications such as seizures or DTs. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary for close monitoring and management of severe symptoms.
