If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, you may be worried about what will happen if you quit drinking. Severe alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous, and it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and how to get help.
Delirium Tremens
Delirium tremens (DTs) are a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that can occur in people who are physically dependent on alcohol and abruptly stop drinking. DTs typically occur within 48-72 hours after quitting alcohol and can last for several days. Symptoms of DTs include fever, confusion, agitation, rapid heart rate, sweating, and seizures. In some cases, people may experience hallucinations or delusions. Left untreated, DTs can be fatal. People who are at risk for developing DTs include those who have been drinking heavily for several weeks or months, those with a history of withdrawal seizures, and those who have other medical conditions such as liver disease or pancreatitis. Treatment for DTs includes supportive care to address symptoms such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, as well as medications to control seizures and anxiety.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. They may occur in the early stages of withdrawal, or they may develop later on as the withdrawal process progresses. They indicate that the person is in danger of developing life-threatening complications, such as seizures or delirium tremens. If a person experiences nausea and vomiting during alcohol withdrawal, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Severe alcohol withdrawal can be deadly.
Intense Sweating
Alcohol withdrawal occurs when someone who has been drinking heavily suddenly stops or dramatically reduces their alcohol intake. This can cause the body to go into shock as it tries to adjust to the sudden change. One of the most common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal is intense perspiration. This can occur anywhere on the body but is most common on the face and torso. Intense perspiration can be a sign of a serious condition called delirium tremens. If you are experiencing intense perspiration as a symptom of alcohol withdrawal, seek medical attention immediately.
Hallucinations
Hallucinations are a symptom of severe alcohol withdrawal. When someone stops drinking after a long period of heavy alcohol use, they may experience hallucinations. This occurs because the brain is trying to re-establish equilibrium. Alcohol is a depressant that interferes with the function of the central nervous system. When someone chronically abuses alcohol, the brain adjusts to the presence of the drug. When the person suddenly stops drinking, the brain is depleted of alcohol and goes into overdrive, trying to re-establish balance. This can result in hallucinations.
Seizures
People having seizures during severe alcohol withdrawal is relatively common. There are a number of possible explanations for why people might have seizures during alcohol withdrawal. One is that they may be caused by a sudden change in the level of neurotransmitters in the brain. When someone stops drinking, the levels of neurotransmitters like GABA and dopamine can change dramatically, which may lead to this. Another possibility is that they may be caused by changes in the electrical activity of the brain. When someone stops drinking, the brain may start to fire more rapidly, which can lead to this. Finally, alcohol withdrawal may be caused by changes in the blood-brain barrier. When someone stops drinking, the barrier may start to break down, which can lead to seizures. Regardless of the underlying cause, seizures during alcohol withdrawal can be very dangerous. They can lead to serious injuries, including brain damage. For this reason, it is important to seek medical help if you are experiencing seizures during alcohol withdrawal.
Overall, alcohol withdrawal can be a very serious condition, and it is important to be aware of the symptoms so that you can get help if necessary.
