Alcohol has a sedating property, probably the reason why you feel dizzy and light-headed after boozing. The brain could sense the levels of the sedatives rising; in effect, it releases neurotransmitters to arrest the sedating effects of alcohol. As the person continues to consume alcohol, the body continues to release the neurotransmitters as well. Overtime, the body adapts to the high levels of neurotransmitters to the point that it becomes a regular part of the person’s life.
Now, when a person has finally decided to stop drinking, the body remains to produce high levels of neurotransmitters to adapt to the dwindling levels of the sedatives. When this happens, alcohol withdrawal symptoms set in, as the body attempts to realign itself from the said changes. You must be familiar with these signs and symptoms which may or may not be serious so that you will know how to easily deal with alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
In general, the duration of these symptoms depends on how severe the person’s addiction towards alcohol. Obviously, the ‘sickness’ level will differ greatly from a habitual drinker compared to the occasional one. In addition, the duration and alcohol dosage affect as well.
The symptoms usually appear between 5 and 10 hours from the last alcohol consumption. While most people go through an adjustment period of 5 days or less, many reported several days of mixed emotions.
The first signs of alcohol withdrawal symptoms are moderate from occasional tremor, insomnia, irritability, anxiety and excessive sweating. They become prevalent 24 hours after the last alcoholic drink. Not all individuals will suffer from these common symptoms as each person has its own way in reacting during the withdrawal period.
Aside from that, severe symptoms could occur that include delirium tremens, high fever, seizures, hallucinations, confusion and over activity of the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is part of the nervous system that controls the muscles, hearts and glands. Alcohol poisoning gives rise to delirium tremens, which accounts for about 5% of the fatality for those experiencing withdrawal symptoms. When severe symptoms are exhibited, the person must be brought to the nearest hospital or care center for immediate medical treatment. Any delay could result to unnecessary suffering or in death.
Certain drugs are used (benzodiazepines) to minimize the effects of alcohol withdrawal symptoms. A good way to cut alcohol is to undergo a detoxification process. This method is proven safe and effective, and it helps the person recover from alcoholism with minimal effects. As soon as the body is completely freed up from alcohol, it’s important for the person to remain sober because a relapse is still very much possible. This is why apart from the desire to quit alcohol, the person has to prepare himself physically, psychologically and emotionally to end alcoholism for good.
If you want to save your life; maintain back your health, save money and regain your self-respect, you must commit yourself and learn how to stop drinking. Life is an amazing journey and you alone can make this travel a magnificent and long one or you can make it a miserable and short-lived one. The choice is yours, keep in mind that you were born a freeman, not ruled, dictated or controlled by an addictive substance such as alcohol.
It is not yet too late, you are reading this article because there is one common thing that keeps us going and that is “HOPE.” As long as we have this “word” in our heart, the chances of success is greatly enhanced – so be happy and be free – stop drinking today!
