The Dangers of Quitting Alcohol Cold Turkey

Are you or a loved one wanting to overcome your alcohol addiction? If so, quitting alcohol cold turkey has probably crossed your mind. However, how effective and safe is the method of quitting cold turkey?

Read on to learn more about whether or not it’s a good idea to go cold turkey on alcohol and what other alternative options are available.

What is Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol addiction is a form of alcohol use disorder (AUD). It’s a chronic disease, characterised by the inability to control alcohol intake despite knowing the negative consequences.

If you’re addicted to alcohol, you may:

• Drink excessively
• Experience withdrawal symptoms
• Face health issues or strained relationships due to alcohol use

It’s no secret that alcohol addiction can be harmful, resulting in a range of negative effects. Recognising the dangers of alcohol addiction is the first step of recovery; however, quitting alcohol cold turkey can be risky. Keep reading to learn why and explore safer ways to regain control of your life.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

When you make the brave decision to withdraw from alcohol, you’ll likely experience some psychological, behavioural, and physical alcohol withdrawal symptoms:

• Sweating
• Shaking
• Anxiety
• High blood pressure
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Insomnia

Knowing how to manage these withdrawal symptoms can be complex. For some, alcohol withdrawal symptoms are much easier to deal with – especially with the help and support from professionals.

How Long Does it Take to Get Over Alcohol Withdrawal?

Alcohol withdrawal can last up to two weeks, however, this can vary from person to person depending on several factors.

Some people experience mild symptoms, and others suffer more severe alcohol symptoms that prove harder to overcome. Regardless of how long withdrawal takes, it’s important to remain focused on the outcome – a better and healthier life.

The first few days are usually the hardest. When it gets to the two-week mark, experiencing more physical symptoms will be unlikely. However, you’ll still be getting used to the change of no longer drinking alcohol, so psychological symptoms may continue to occur.

So, Should You Go Cold Turkey on Alcohol?

Is it a good idea to go cold turkey on alcohol? No – quitting alcohol cold turkey is not recommended. As discussed, going cold turkey on alcohol can be both dangerous and life-threatening.

When you stop drinking alcohol suddenly, you’re putting your body at risk of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), which can bring on severe and harmful symptoms.

The Dangers of Quitting Alcohol Cold Turkey

When you cut drinking alcohol cold turkey, you’re at risk of AWS. Symptoms of AWS potentially include:

• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
• Delirium tremens (DTs)

These particular symptoms can cause much worry, and it’s important to seek medical help if you believe yourself or someone you know is experiencing these – especially DTs.

Delirium Tremens vs Alcohol Withdrawal

Spotting the difference between the common alcohol withdrawal symptoms and more severe symptoms, life-threatening symptoms is key:

• Common symptoms – General symptoms range from mild to severe within the first few days of withdrawal, including anxiety, nausea, and irritability.
• DTs – Around the 48 – 72 hour mark, the most severe symptoms will peak. Someone may display confusion or brain fog, and have a rapid heart rate, fever, hallucinations, and seizures.

Delirium tremens can be life-threatening. Immediate medical support is vital if such a medical emergency occurs during withdrawal. Be sure to consider the dangers of detoxing from alcohol at home without medical intervention before beginning your recovery.

How to Safely Quit Alcohol

Now that we’ve established how dangerous quitting alcohol cold turkey can be, we’re sure you’re wondering how to do it safely. There are three main alternatives to consider for a safe and effective recovery from alcohol addiction:

• A medically supervised detox programme – Monitored by medical professionals throughout your recovery process.
• A home detox programme – Best for mild addictions, home detox kits help ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
• Tapering method – Gradually reducing your alcohol intake over a certain amount of time.

Which Method is Best to Quit Alcohol?

The method you use to quit alcohol safely depends on the severity of your addiction. However, both home detox and medically supervised detox programmes tend to provide the best benefits.

Up until March 2024, there were over 310, 863 adults aged 18 and over in contact with alcohol treatment services. There’s no shame or embarrassment for seeking help. Therapy is also beneficial, helping you understand your addiction, learn coping strategies, and develop healthier ways to manage stress and emotions.

In most cases, professional alcohol use disorder treatment is the most effective way to achieve long-term recovery.

Precautions to Consider During Recovery

A medical detox certainly provides one of the safest routes to becoming sober for good. Regardless of whether you slowly wean yourself off alcohol through the tapering method or choose the safer alternative of a medical detox, we suggest considering a few precautions:

• Stay clear of bad influences
• Stay clear of people who cause stress or anxiety
• Seek support through loved ones
• Avoid scenarios where alcohol is involved
• Stay away from the alcohol section in supermarkets
• Start removing alcohol from your home
• Maintain a good sleep schedule

Detox From Alcohol Safely With Home Detox UK

The decision to stop drinking alcohol is personal, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. While some individuals may find success in quitting cold turkey, many others require medical detox, therapy, and ongoing support.

If medical detox sounds like a better option for you or a close loved one, Home Detox UK can help. Our team will assess your circumstances and determine the best home treatment, providing the tools you need to detox safely.

Let’s put you on the path to a healthier and happier life – begin your journey today. We can also discuss potential therapy options to find the underlying cause of your addiction.

Please contact us today to learn about addiction treatment options, from inpatient to outpatient. We look forward to speaking with you soon.