Regularly drinking alcohol is widely seen as socially acceptable and a harmless way to unwind. What is not spoken about is how excessive and prolonged use of alcohol can lead to dependence.
When someone who has become dependent on alcohol suddenly stops or reduces their intake, they may experience a range of symptoms. These symptoms are known as alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
In this blog, we’ll cover what alcohol withdrawal is, how to ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms and where to seek support.
Remember, alcohol withdrawal is a serious medical condition that should not be taken lightly. Understanding the signs and symptoms can lead to timely intervention and a safer recovery journey.
Alcohol withdrawal is what happens when someone who usually drinks heavily abruptly stops drinking or reduces their intake.
The severity and duration of these symptoms can vary widely depending on factors such as the individual’s overall health, how much and how often they are drinking, and whether they have experienced alcohol withdrawal before.
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) is the clinical term used to describe the range of symptoms that occur when someone dependent on alcohol suddenly stops drinking.
It can range from mild to severe and can even be life-threatening in extreme cases. AWS typically begins within hours after the last drink, peaks around 24 to 72 hours, and can last for weeks.
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal are caused by a change in the body’s usual function. Prolonged and heavy alcohol use alters the brain’s chemistry, which leads to changes in neurotransmitter levels. Specifically, alcohol increases the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
GABA is a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, leading to the sedative and calming effects often associated with drinking alcohol. Additionally, alcohol suppresses glutamate, another neurotransmitter that stimulates the brain.
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can present both physically and psychologically. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience every symptom, and the severity can vary from person to person.
Let’s take a look into the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal that you can expect during your journey to sobriety:
You will likely not require medical attention during this stage and it is best to give your body time to adjust. These are the symptoms that you can expect during alcohol withdrawal:
if you have a severe dependence on alcohol, or have been dealing with alcohol addiction for a long time, you may be more likely to experience more severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
For this reason, it is advised to seek medical support through this journey. Frequent alcohol abuse can cause the following symptoms:
The alcohol withdrawal timeline usually involves symptoms beginning 8 hours after the last drink and can worsen over the next 24 to 48 hours.
If you’re not strongly dependent on alcohol, these symptoms usually subside within around 24 hours.
However, if you have a severe addiction, you may face more serious consequences. Withdrawal symptoms can last for many days and, in some situations, become more extreme.
Serious symptoms, such as seizures, may appear within 24 to 48 hours after your last alcoholic drink. It is important to monitor your symptoms. Roughly one in 10 people with alcohol withdrawal syndrome is affected by seizures.
Understanding the duration and intensity of alcohol withdrawal symptoms becomes essential if you’re considering an alcohol detox.
For more severe symptoms, it is advised to speak to medical professionals to prevent a medical emergency. However, there are various ways to reduce the impact of acute symptoms and help your body recover. These include:
Seeking assistance and advice can be an important step towards a healthier and even better lifestyle – you can do this in the comfort of your home!
Here at Home Detox UK, we are here to help and guide you on your journey to sobriety. Identifying that you need help and are ready to make a change is a great first step, and even reading this blog is a step in the right direction.
When experiencing withdrawal symptoms from prolonged excessive drinking, it is best to seek medical attention, as the more serious symptoms, like delirium tremens (DTs), can have serious health complications.
Recognising the withdrawal symptoms of alcohol, its health impacts and how to seek support will be hugely advantageous to your recovery path. If you, or someone you know, are struggling with alcohol dependence, there are resources available to make alcohol withdrawal more capable.
There are many treatment options available to suit your individual needs. Our alcohol detox plans, at Home Detox UK, are tailored to your unique needs to provide the best alcohol detox support.
We also offer 24-hour support, regular check-ins and the necessary tools and medications to help you achieve sobriety. Begin your detox today with Home Detox UK.