Alcoholism can lead to a number of mental and physical health problems over time. When you are ready to quit the recovery process is a long and challenging road. However, going through alcohol withdrawal is your first step into sobriety. It is a required step if you suffer alcohol dependence. Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include many uncomfortable feelings, some life-threatening ones. Getting to know these symptoms and what to expect in detox helps you breakthrough to a new, sober life. Going through alcohol withdrawal means you will likely need an alcohol detox center that can help you manage the symptoms and ensure you see success and progress.
Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal frightens most people. The mere idea of it keeps many from reaching for sobriety. But getting to know the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal helps you see past discomfort to a brighter future. Staying focused on the results can help motivate you through to the other side.
The worst symptoms of alcohol withdrawal fade within days, a week at most. Surely years in happy, healthy addiction recovery give enough reason for one week in detox? After all, drinking to keep up with your addiction is worse.
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:
- Lost appetite, nausea, and vomiting
- Fast heart rate
- Intense sweating and sleeplessness
- Headache
- Tremors and disorientation
- Anxiety and irritability
- Seizure, extreme mood swings and hallucinations
Many factors affect your time in detox. These include your age, drinking history, and the amount you drank. Your mental health and history of going through withdrawal also influence your detox experience.
Timeline for Alcohol Withdrawal
Withdrawal from alcohol begins about six to 12 hours after your last drink. You first feel mildly uncomfortable. These general, sick feelings last for a few days. Being in a licensed medical detox center makes these symptoms easier to get through.
Even more difficult symptoms set in at about 12 to 24 hours after drinking. These last about five to seven days. These symptoms also feel easier in a licensed and accredited detox.
People with a lengthy history of drinking go through more difficult symptoms. These symptoms of delirium tremens (DTs) include seizure, hallucinations, body tremors, and even risk of death. DTs start at about day three. Dying from alcohol is extremely rare and is only a risk in the most extreme cases.
About 75 percent of people in alcohol withdrawal have post-acute withdrawal syndrome, too. These PAWS symptoms last months or years. They include thinking, problem-solving, memory, and learning issues. Mood swings, depression, sleep problems, anxiety, and cravings also happen during PAWS.
Getting the Help You Need for Healthy Alcohol Withdrawal
No one expects alcohol withdrawal to be comfortable. But there is an easier road through withdrawal. That is a licensed and accredited alcohol detox center. This type of detox keeps you comfortable, healthy, and safe from the problems of alcohol withdrawal. It also prepares you for alcohol rehab treatment.
Serenity House Detox & Recovery in Houston, Texas provides accredited alcohol detox for people just like you. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery you also get the safety and comfort you need to focus on what you want from your recovery. Programs at Serenity House Detox & Recovery include:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy, individual therapy, and family therapy
- Meditation therapy
- Psychotherapy program
- Chiropractic care
If you or someone you love need safe, comfortable detox from alcohol or drugs, call Serenity House Detox & Recovery in Houston at 866.516.8356. Serenity House Detox & Recovery gives you the support, care, and comfort you need for ending your alcohol dependence. You can have a better life you want so much, so call today to learn more about the programs we have to offer.