Members,
Alcohol withdrawal refers to the symptoms a person may experience when they have been drinking too much and then they suddenly stop drinking. The withdrawal usually occurs within 5 – 10 hours after the last drink, but in some cases it occurred as late as 7 – 10 days afterwards. These symptoms are more likely to develop depending on how heavily you used to drink.
It’s important to know that these symptoms can range from a mild and uncomfortable to a serious life-threatening condition. If they persist don’t hesitate to contact your health care provider or the local emergency clinic. Symptoms usually begin within 8-12 hours of the last drink and peak around the 48 – 72 hour mark. They may persist for a week or more. Some symptoms such as sleep changes, mood swings, and fatigue may last for 3 – 12 months or more. The symptoms peak in 48 - 72 hours and may persist for a week or more. Other symptoms such as sleep changes, rapid changes in mood, and fatigue may last for 3 - 12 months or more.
Understanding the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, can help you be prepared to deal with them in a constructive manner.
Common symptoms:
Mild-to-moderate psychological symptoms:
* Jumpiness or nervousness
* Shakiness
* Anxiety
* Irritable or easily excitable
* Mood swings
* Depression
* Fatigue
* Difficulty thinking clearly
* Bad dreams
Mild-to-moderate physical symptoms:
* Headache -- general, pulsating
* Sweating -- especially the palms of the hands or the face
* Nausea and vomiting
* Loss of appetite
* Difficulty sleeping
* Pallor
* Rapid heart rate
* Eye pupils enlarged
* Clammy skin
* Tremor of the hands
* Involuntary, abnormal movements of the eyelids
Severe symptoms:
* Delirium tremens -- a state of confusion and visual hallucinations
* Agitation
* Fever
* Convulsions
* Black outs
Members, have any of you experienced alcohol withdrawal? What have you found helpful when dealing with the symptoms?
Luciana
