When is it necessary for someone to get admitted into an alcohol detox center? Anyone struggling with alcohol withdrawal syndrome may need this treatment. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a set of symptoms that arise when someone that’s physically dependent on alcohol suddenly stops drinking or reduces their intake drastically.
The brain changes with prolonged and excessive alcohol use, so it will take time for its functions to normalize after alcohol withdrawal. Along with the brain and the body slowly getting used to the lack of alcohol in the system, bouts of physical discomfort and strong cravings may occur. To focus on recovery and successfully remain sober, most recovering addicts will need professional help throughout their addiction treatment process, which starts with an alcohol detox program.
If you’re looking for an alcohol detox center in Ohio, contact Midwest Detox Center and ask about our programs and services. Call 833.647.0392 or reach out to our team online.
What Are the Risks of Alcohol Withdrawal?
About half of all people who develop a dependency on alcohol will go through withdrawal symptoms within hours of their last drink. Some will have to go through very severe physical discomfort. If they don’t drink alcohol when the symptoms arise, the withdrawal period can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. They will need to endure the adverse effects of withdrawal until they’ve completed detox.
The central nervous system adjusts to the presence of alcohol and its depressive effect on the body as addiction develops. Drinking can slow down a person’s brain functions and require the body to work harder to keep the brain alert. Along with physical discomfort, another symptom of alcohol withdrawal is extreme alertness of the brain as alcohol levels in a person’s system drop.
Here are some common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal to watch out for:
- Agitation and irritability
- Anxiety and depression
- Appetite loss
- Fatigue
- Headaches and dizziness
- Hostility or aggressive behavior
- Insomnia
- Muscle weakness and tremors
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Mood swings and restlessness
- Rapid heart rate
- Short-term memory loss and cognitive difficulties
- Sweaty or clammy skin
Alcohol detox can also result in more severe and life-threatening effects, such as the symptoms of delirium tremens (DTs).
What Is Delirium Tremens?
DTs are symptoms that could be potentially fatal without proper medical support. These symptoms are commonly associated with long-term alcohol use disorders. DTs symptoms are also more common among heavy drinkers and those who have gone through alcohol withdrawal before. Bouts of DTs can arise as soon as 48 hours after a person’s last drink and then last for multiple days. However, the occurrence of DTs isn’t common; one in about 20 people will experience it.
Symptoms of delirium tremens include the following:
- Agitation
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- High fevers
- Hyperthermia
- Light sensitivity
- Nausea
- Seizures
- Tremors
If someone struggling with addiction suddenly decides to stop drinking alcohol, undergoing the detox process with medical support at a health care center is ideal. DTs can be fatal, and other withdrawal symptoms can be very uncomfortable. As a result, professional help can be instrumental in the success and survival of people detoxing from alcohol. Medical professionals at alcohol detox centers can spot the symptoms of delirium tremens. They can then take appropriate action immediately to prevent permanent damage and the development of trauma.
How Can Patients Prepare for the Dangers of Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?
To deal with dangerous alcohol withdrawal symptoms effectively, seek professional help at every stage of addiction treatment. Detox is the initial step that patients take on their recovery journey. Medical detox, particularly inpatient programs, can effectively help patients deal with the physical aspects of withdrawal. However, it won’t address behaviors and thought patterns that contribute to alcohol addiction, and it won’t effectively treat any co-occurring issues, either. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can stabilize patients in great discomfort. Fluids and vitamins will also be available to patients that are malnourished or dehydrated.
Seek Support at Midwest Detox Center Today
If you’re looking for an alcohol detox center in Ohio, contact Midwest Detox Center. Call 833.647.0392 or reach out to our team online and ask about our programs and services.
