It is well-known that alcoholism can have tremendously debilitating effects on the sufferer psychologically, but it can also be severe enough in some cases to pose a very real risk to the person’s physical health. In fact, there are occasions when the addict is so deeply impacted by the affliction that detoxing can become a life-and-death situation.
Anyone who has ever drunk to the point of having a hangover has experienced the withdrawal effects of alcohol – albeit on a small scale. The more, and longer, someone drinks, the more pervasive withdrawal symptoms become. From a mild headache to sweating, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, disorientation, agitation, trembling or shaky hands, auditory or visual hallucinations and difficulty breathing – alcoholics going through the detox process will experience some, if not all, of those symptoms.
One of the most feared sets of physical symptoms caused by acute alcohol withdrawal are known as delirium tremens or the DTs. Typically, these symptoms are felt only by those who have been heavy alcoholics for an extended period of time – usually a decade or more.
DTs are recognizable by extreme trembling of hands and other appendages in association with disorientation, hallucinations and long-sleep durations. Other symptoms may include paranoia, loss of appetite and extreme nervousness. In the worst cases, the DTs may result in seizures, coma or even death – a clear example of circumstances when medical assistance would be necessary.
Mild to moderately impacted alcoholics will most likely suffer no serious physical threats and will be most challenged by the psychological aspects of quitting alcohol consumption. Still, vigilance is always warranted to ensure tragic consequences are avoided. If during detox, an alcoholic is experiencing half or more of the above symptoms, medical assistance is probably warranted.
A good rule to follow is to seek medical attention if your condition has you wondering if you need to seek medical help. Chances are, if you are thinking about it you should probably call 911.
Like a recurring yeast infection, the symptoms of alcoholism can be a pervasive and recurring condition that affects the addict’s life for years after cessation. Many alcoholics suffer relapses and, unfortunately, must revisit the harsh realities of detox.
For that reason, a tight-knit supportive living and working environment is recommended to help the alcoholic avoid temptation and stay on the straight and narrow. Obtaining regular Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and maintaining a close personal relationship with a sponsor will also assist the life-long effort to avoid regression.
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