When an individual becomes dependent on alcohol and suddenly decides to stop drinking, it’s common for that person to suffer from alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Also known as alcohol withdrawal syndrome, the symptoms that a person sustaining from alcohol experience are very real. Over time, the body and brain becomes dependent on alcohol to function normally. When the consumption of alcohol stops, the body has to adjust to functioning without it.
The symptoms are a direct result of the brain and body becoming accustomed to the lack of alcohol. In simple terms, both the brain and body have to learn how to perform even simple daily tasks without alcohol. Not everyone that decides to stop drinking suffers from alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Generally, people that drink frequently, drink heavily, or for a long time do experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms in some form.
The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can last for days, weeks or months depending on each persons degree of dependency. Typically, alcohol withdrawal symptoms are behavioral, physical and psychological. And, the symptoms can range from mild or moderate, to severe. While mild symptoms might be simple annoyances, severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can literally disrupt a persons life and be life threatening.
Mild or moderate physical and psychological alcohol withdrawal symptoms can begin in as little as 48 hours. Severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms usually begin within 48 hours after the last drink. However, because each persons level of dependency differs, symptoms may not arise for several days. Keep in mind that a person that seems to do fine for a few days after sustaining from alcohol may still develop symptoms.
Psychological Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms: Mild to Moderate
There’s a wide variety of psychological alcohol withdrawal symptoms that range from mild to moderate. The person will usually always be jumpy or nervous. They may not be able to sit still for long periods of time, or may always need to be busy doing something. They will experience some level of emotional anxiety because their emotions are changing rapidly. Irritability often occurs for no reason at all, or over the simplest things.
As the body consumes energy to fight the cravings of alcohol, fatigue becomes a very common symptom. The feelings of fatigue can be increased by the difficulty to sleep, or nightmares. It can be difficult to think clearly, or to even make simple decisions. As the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal take their toll on the body and mind, the person may exhibit some signs of depression.
Physical Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms: Mild to Moderate
Mild to moderate physical alcohol withdrawal symptoms can range from nausea and vomiting to a partial or complete loss of appetite. Sweating may occur on the palms of the hands and face. The skin may appear pale and have a clammy feel. The eyes may even appear to be larger and the pupils are often dilated. In some cases, the persons eyelids may move involuntary or abnormally.
Headaches are a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. They can range from mild pain to moderate or severe pulsating headaches. The person may suffer from abnormal body movements such as jerking and tremors of the hands. Typically, the heart rate will increase rapidly. The rapid pulse rate can result in a heavy feeling in the chest or an inability to breathe freely.
Severe Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Around 95% of alcoholics suffering from withdrawal symptoms rarely need hospitalization. The other 5% suffer from symptoms that are severe enough to require treatment at a rehab facility or hospital. These symptoms can include fever, delirium tremens or DT’s and agitation. And, the person may suffer from uncontrollable muscle tremors.
Severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms can result in life threatening problems and should not be taken lightly. The person may suddenly start having seizures or convulsions. They may have episodes where they black out and and have no memory of events. The person may experience hallucinations and severe confusion. These symptoms could prove fatal in some situations. For example, if the person is driving or operating heavy equipment at a job.
Even when a person that has became addicted to alcohol stops drinking, they are never safe from becoming dependent on alcohol. Alcoholism is a life long battle that takes determination to conquer. Every individual might not suffer from all of the symptoms or experience the same symptoms as another person. It’s very important to recognize when those symptoms require the help of a professional and to be willing to seek that help.