The Dangers Of Detoxing from Alcohol at Home

If they are experiencing seizure-related symptoms, an anticonvulsant medication may be prescribed. When someone regularly consumes large amounts of alcohol, their brain and body chemistry become irritated. This includes neurotransmitters and the central nervous system (CNS). They also offer medications to help minimize detox side effects and alcohol detox respond to possible complications. “It’s important to look for caffeine-free options if you’re trying to decrease overall caffeine intake to allow yourself to stay hydrated and decrease the amount of stimulants you’re adding to your body,” encourages Czerwony. Medical professionals recommend 2 p.m., so as not to interfere with your sleep.

• By undergoing a medically supported detox, the dangers of withdrawal are decreased, and the chances of a successful recovery are far greater.
• For serious alcohol use disorder, you may need a stay at a residential treatment facility.
• It also provides an overview of the alcohol withdrawal timeline process and when to discuss your drinking with your healthcare provider.
• This article discusses alcohol withdrawal, its symptoms, and potential complications.
• If you experience withdrawal symptoms, it’s one sign that you’re becoming dependent on alcohol.
• The severity of alcohol withdrawal is categorized into three stages.

Once withdrawal is complete, additional medications and supplements may be needed to address complications and nutritional deficiencies that occur because of chronic alcohol use. When the alcohol level suddenly drops, your brain stays in this keyed up state. A counselor can help someone prepare for life after withdrawal and provide support as they navigate quitting drinking. A person with delirium tremens needs to be hospitalized until the symptoms can be controlled. By Sarah Bence

Sarah Bence, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist and freelance writer.

Day 63

Behavioral health treatment for alcohol problems is often (but not always) covered by insurance. In the United States, most states have low-cost or free rehabilitation programs for those who are uninsured. If you or someone you know shows signs of delirium tremens, go to the emergency room immediately. Many dietitians are actually advocating for you to avoid the regimented detox diets, but focus instead on a well-balanced diet, with whole grain foods, fruits, and vegetables.

• Depending on the withdrawal symptoms the person is experiencing, some medications will be more appropriate to administer than others.
• You don’t need to be diagnosed with alcohol use disorder in order to quit drinking.
• The most effective way to prevent alcohol withdrawal syndrome is to avoid drinking or drinking only in moderation.
• Doctors may prescribe benzodiazepines to manage seizures and other alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

In some cases, symptoms may progress to severe withdrawal with seizures and delirium tremens. Common medications include benzodiazepines to help treat symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. You might also take anti-seizure meds and antipsychotics, along with other drugs. If your doctor thinks you might be going through alcohol withdrawal, they’ll ask you questions about your drinking history and how recently you stopped. They’ll want to know if you’ve ever gone through withdrawal before.

Common Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

However, sleep disturbances, irritability, and fatigue may continue for months. If your home environment is not supportive for staying sober, talk with your doctor. Your doctor may be able to connect you with shelter programs for people recovering from alcohol addiction. Some people can be treated at home, but others may need supervised care in a hospital setting to avoid potentially dangerous complications such as seizures. Doctors may prescribe other medications to treat withdrawal-related symptoms. One example is a beta-blocker (such as propranolol) to reduce high blood pressure.

“I feel good today but was very irritable last night. My clothes are fitting better, and my face isn’t as puffy.” “It feels good. I feel strong. I am also amazed I have had none of the typical shakes, hallucinations, palpitations, etc. other than a horrific constant headache.” “Physically, I feel fine now, but I still crave alcohol like crazy. That’s going to be the worst part.” “Starting to feel a little better. If I had the money, I would have gone to a 30-day rehab. I am still having shakes now and again. My head is in a fog constantly.” “I can’t believe the luxury of sleep! After a really hard time, I slept for two nights! Not all night, but great sleep.” “I get bad sweating even when sitting still, my head feels thick, my stomach hurts, and [I have] lots of gas. It’s been getting better by the day, but this morning again, I feel a bit nauseous and am getting hot and cold sweats.”

Better Sleep, Lower Blood Pressure

However, knowing the side effects of alcohol detox can help make the process less frightening. Many people can break their alcohol dependency with support from friends, loved ones, and professional addiction treatment. First, this study utilized a convenience sample and so generalization of the findings are limited.

Or visit our Wellness Hub to help you stay current about the industry. Some herbs to consider during detox are garlic, turmeric, dandelion root and roselle as they support the functions of the liver and kidneys. On the other hand, https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/cure-for-alcohol-withdrawal-symptoms/ herbal supplements that contain cilantro, rhubarb root, licorice and chamomile can help lubricate the colon and prevent constipation. When the body is trying to expel toxins at a faster rate, you can experience a healing crisis.

A common benzodiazepine that a doctor may prescribe includes diazepam. During initial treatment, a person may receive a higher dosage of benzodiazepines to reduce symptoms and the urge to drink alcohol. After symptoms subside, a doctor will taper the dose until they determine the individual no longer requires medication.

• A hangover occurs when a person drinks too much alcohol at one time.
• “I read other people’s withdrawal symptoms and how they seem to be over in a week, but mine are still hanging on … Just stomach problems and anxiety, mostly.”
• Those who experience the most severe withdrawal symptoms, such as hallucinations and seizures, don’t begin to have those symptoms until days four or five.
• GABA has particular binding sites available for ethanol, thus increasing the inhibition of the central nervous system when present.
• Some are finally able to get some sleep at day five, whereas others still have problems sleeping.