Alcohol Withdrawal and its Symptoms

Going through alcohol withdrawal is one the realities any regular or heavy drinker has to go through if he or she stops drinking.

And the withdrawal process is one of the factors that make it so difficult to stop drinking or go cold turkey – because at best it’s likely to be very uncomfortable and at worst can be life threatening.

What is Alcoholism Withdrawal?

If you’re a regular or heavy drinker and suddenly stop drinking or go ‘cold turkey’ as well call it – you’re going to experience a range of emotional and physical withdrawal symptoms.

The range and severity of the symptoms that you can experience differs from person to person. And because going through the alcohol withdrawal process is likely to increase your cravings for more alcohol – it’s a very difficult and potentially dangerous time to get through.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

The following are some of the physical withdrawal symptoms you may experience:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Shakes/Tremors
• Headaches and Sweating
• Difficulty sleeping/Insomnia
• Loss of Appetite
• Heart Palpitations

Then there are also the psychological withdrawal symptoms:

• Anxiety, Agitation and Nervousness
• Mood Swings
• Depression
• Nightmares
• Inability to think clearly
• General lethargy and fatigue

Then, you still have the potential of the most severe withdrawal symptoms, which could include:

• DT’s (Delirium Tremens ) – confusion, disorientation and intense hallucinations, which can lead to seizures and death
• Fever
• Convulsions

So What Should You Do?

If you’re trying to quit after prolonged alcohol abuse and likely dependence – make sure you do it supervised. Doing it under professional and managed care will make sure the withdrawal and detox process is done in the right way – which will ultimately make it easier for you.

Getting proper Treatment for Alcoholism will go a long way to giving you the best possible chance of recovery – so don’t be afraid to ask for help and get all the help you need.

In terms of supplements and diet – make sure you take your full dose of B-vitamins and eat lots of grains, fruits and vegetables – because those will facilitate the detox process and help you feel better.

Be sure to also check out the Alcoholism and Vitamins article for more ideas on that. At the end of the day though, the withdrawal process is not going to be pleasant – but with the right help and guidance, you’ll get through it far more easily than you would otherwise.

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Be sure to also read the related Drug Addiction Withdrawal page to discover more about the symptoms you're likely to experience if you're coming off drugs.

Knowing how to deal with Depression and Alcoholism which is not only common during the withdrawal process, but is an illness many alcoholics are afflicted by could also be tremendously valuable.

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