Alcohol withdrawal: The signs and treatment

Alcohol is a psychoactive substance with addictive properties. Medically, it is a central nervous system depressant that disrupts communication between the brain, affects behavior, and reduces physical coordination.

According to the 2022 Health Survey, 77.5% of Dutch adults drink alcohol occasionally. However, only 43.5% follow the Health Council’s recommendation to drink little or no alcohol. In contrast, 6.5% drink excessively, and 8.3% are classified as heavy drinkers.

The addictive nature of alcohol comes from its impact on the brain’s reward system. It induces pleasurable feelings and reduces stress, which can lead to repeated use and eventually dependence.

In the short term, alcohol causes euphoria, relaxation, and reduced inhibitions. However, excessive use can result in drowsiness, blurred vision, uncoordinated movements, and, in extreme cases, unconsciousness or even overdose.

The biggest danger of alcohol is the potential for addiction, which can lead to serious health issues including liver diseases, heart problems, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

If you decide to quit drinking, seeking professional help and finding a supportive community is crucial. Medical support can help manage withdrawal symptoms, and a supportive community can provide motivation and understanding during the process.

Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol include anxiety, shaking, rapid heartbeat, and, in severe cases, even delirium tremens, a medical emergency characterized by hallucinations and severe confusion.

Why Is Alcohol Dangerous?

Alcohol is dangerous because it brings numerous health risks. Excessive drinking can lead to severe medical problems, including liver diseases, heart issues, and an increased risk of cancer. It can also cause memory problems and learning disorders. Heavy drinking can result in a range of health issues, including liver cirrhosis, a condition that can be fatal.

According to the research by Lee and Forsythe (2011), alcohol is a dangerous substance that has become an endemic issue in society. It affects both individuals and the community as a whole, with physical, social, and financial costs.

What Are the Signs of Alcohol Addiction?

A study by Sanchez et al. (2013) shows that alcohol use in childhood can be a risk factor for dangerous drinking in adolescence and is associated with parental alcohol use.

There are several signs that indicate someone may be addicted to alcohol. These signs range from physical symptoms to behavioral changes. Physical signs include impaired coordination, memory problems, rapid eye movements, nausea, sweating, diarrhea, bloating, erectile dysfunction, slurred speech, vomiting, jaundice, excessive drowsiness, stupor, and in severe cases, coma.

Behavioral signs of alcohol addiction include an inability to stop or control alcohol use despite negative consequences, repeated attempts to stop or reduce alcohol use unsuccessfully, spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from alcohol’s effects, strong cravings or desires for alcohol, failing to meet important work or home responsibilities due to alcohol use, and drinking in dangerous situations such as driving or operating machinery.

How to Detox from Alcohol Addiction

Detoxing from an alcohol addiction begins with the decision to quit. It’s important to know that this can be a long process, full of potential setbacks. However, it is possible to break this habit.

A good strategy is to gradually reduce alcohol consumption. This could mean deciding to drink less each day, or to have certain alcohol-free days each week. It’s also helpful to find alternative beverages, such as juice or flavored drinks, to replace alcohol.

It is crucial to avoid situations that may trigger the urge to drink. This could involve avoiding certain social activities or stopping the purchase of alcohol for the home. Finding new activities to distract yourself from the urge to drink can also be beneficial.

Support is vital when detoxing from an alcohol addiction. This could mean seeking help from friends or family members, or pursuing professional assistance. A therapist can provide useful tips and strategies for coping with the addiction.

Despite your best efforts, it can be challenging to detox from an alcohol addiction on your own. Treatment in a clinic may be the best option. These clinics often offer both physical and emotional support, and can help address the underlying causes of addiction.

It is important to know that detoxing from alcohol addiction means a significant life change. However, it is a change that is necessary for living a healthier and happier life.

How to Help Someone Rehab from Alcohol

Helping someone detox from alcohol begins with showing love and support. Offer assistance without being forceful; quitting is a personal choice. Create a supportive environment, set boundaries, and address concerns. Learn about alcohol abuse and addiction. Inform the person about potential treatments and rehabilitation.

Encourage seeking professional help. Assist in making appointments and attending sessions. Involve family members and friends to form a support group. Avoid judgmental behavior; listen and show understanding. Encourage participation in self-help groups.

Monitor their behavior without infringing on privacy. Allow the person to make their own decisions and tackle problems in their own way.

What Happens During Alcohol Addiction Treatment in a Rehab Clinic?

In a rehab clinic, alcohol addiction is professionally treated. Upon arrival, the person meets with medical staff. This intake includes an assessment where the healthcare provider evaluates withdrawal symptoms and determines which medications are necessary to prevent complications during the detox process.

A personalized care plan is developed to meet the individual’s needs. This plan typically includes counseling services to address underlying issues contributing to the addiction. Group and family sessions are offered to provide support and develop behavioral skills. It’s important to note that the approach may vary from person to person.

Participation in self-help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous is encouraged. These groups offer a supportive community, guidance, and encouragement. Educational programs and skill-building training are also part of the recovery process. These programs provide the tools and knowledge necessary to maintain sobriety after leaving the clinic.

There are rehab clinics in the US, UK and abroad that treat alcohol addiction. It’s a good idea to do research and choose the right clinic that suits the individual’s needs and recovery process.

Can foreign clinics help you quit alcohol?

Yes, clinics abroad can help you quit alcohol. They offer new, specialized therapies and treatments. These clinics have qualified staff who provide excellent care. Anonymity is possible, which is important for those who fear stigma.

Shorter waiting times are a major advantage. Depending on the country, costs may be lower due to lower living expenses. It’s important to do thorough research before choosing a clinic. Make sure the clinic has a good reputation and that the services offered align with your needs.

What are the withdrawal symptoms of alcohol?

The most common withdrawal symptoms of alcohol include anxiety, shaking, sweating, and confusion. These symptoms occur when an individual suddenly stops or significantly reduces their intake after prolonged heavy drinking. The severity of the symptoms can range from mild to severe and may occur within hours after the last consumption. It’s important to note that the severity and duration of the symptoms depend on the individual’s overall health.

Early symptoms include nervousness, trembling, headaches, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, fatigue, irritability, mood swings, clammy skin, rapid heartbeat, loss of appetite, and difficulty concentrating. In more severe cases, hallucinations, delirium tremens, disorientation, high blood pressure, accelerated heart rate, fever, agitation, and even seizures can occur. In these severe cases, immediate medical assistance should be sought.

It’s important to note that alcohol withdrawal symptoms differ from those of other addictive substances. The form and cause of the symptoms vary greatly, creating a unique range of challenges when dealing with alcohol withdrawal.

How does alcohol withdrawal differ from other addictive substances?

Alcohol withdrawal can cause severe symptoms such as delirium and seizures, which are not typically associated with other addictions. Additionally, mental health issues like depression can complicate the underlying problems.

According to a study by Cuong et al. (2018) published in Drug and Alcohol Review, a major difference between alcohol and other addictive substances is that alcohol can be legally sold. The study shows that the alcohol industry is highly dependent on harmful alcohol consumption. This suggests that the societal acceptance of alcohol presents an additional challenge in tackling alcohol addiction.

In treating alcohol addiction, medication such as benzodiazepines is often used, while methadone is commonly used for opioid addiction. However, the goal remains the same: overcoming addiction. The approach can vary from outpatient management to residential detoxification, depending on the severity of the addiction. Behavioral therapies are effective for both types of addiction, but the specific needs may differ.

What stages do you go through when quitting alcohol?

The process of quitting alcohol typically goes through the same 4 stages: acknowledging the problem, detoxification, addressing the underlying issues, and aftercare. It is important to follow all these rehab stages when you want to stop abusing alcohol, as relapse rates during recovery are high.