What Does Alcohol Withdrawal Feel Like?

Withdrawal can be one of the most intimidating aspects of recovery for those just beginning to seek treatment for alcohol dependency. In actuality, every alcohol dependent individual already experiences withdrawal on a daily basis—punctuated by the driving desire to drink when sobriety sets in. The body and brain experience chemical changes when alcohol dependency develops, eventually adjusting important neurotransmitter levels to compensate for alcohol’s effects. As a result, the alcohol dependent individual feels “normal” when inebriated, and experiences low levels of positive neurotransmitters when alcohol is not present in the system. This leads to the collective effects of alcohol withdrawal—experienced in negative psychological, emotional and physical effects in the dependent individual.

What Does Alcohol Withdrawal Feel Like?

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms will vary depending on how long you have been alcohol dependent, and how much alcohol you consume on a daily basis. In light drinkers, alcohol withdrawal symptoms may include a slight headache, low level anxiety, or tiredness. In those with longer-term or heavier alcohol addictions, withdrawal may manifest itself in more intense symptoms—often making the prospect of life without alcohol feel threatening.

Physical Effects of Alcohol Withdrawal

Regardless of your level of alcohol use, some of the common physical signs of withdrawal may include headaches, feelings of nausea, vomiting, and sweating. Some alcohol dependent individuals experiencing withdrawal will encounter difficulty sleeping—and some individuals find themselves waking from occasional nightmares. Because the nervous system becomes affected, extremities such as the hands may experience temporary shaking, and frequent blinking is also a side effect for some. You may notice some variation in heartbeat during the first few days of sobriety, and some people experience shifts in breathing during this period. One out of every four alcohol dependent people experiencing withdrawal may have more severe physical symptoms—including tremors and seizures—making it imperative that you do not attempt to detox yourself, opting for a medically supervised inpatient facility.

Psychological and Emotional Effects of Alcohol Withdrawal

Because of the changes in brain chemicals occurring during the alcohol withdrawal process, you may notice your state of mind experiences some variations, too. Some alcohol dependent individuals undergoing detox experience a sense of general confusion, while others find themselves hallucinating. Others find their overall mood becomes more irritable, anxious or depressed, making the counseling and mental health resources of an inpatient alcohol recovery center beneficial.

What Are the DTs?

In severe cases, some alcohol dependent individuals experience severe withdrawal symptoms in the first few days of sobriety with a condition known as “delirium tremens” (colloquially called “the DTs”). Essentially an intensified version of alcohol withdrawal, the DTs include a host of physical symptoms. Some people experiencing the DTs find they run high fevers, while others encounter an irregular heartbeat or circulatory problems. In severe cases, spasms, grand mal seizures, strokes and heart attacks can even occur—leading to unconsciousness or even death if speedy medical help is not obtained. However, with the 24-hour medical supervision that most reputable inpatient rehab centers provide, withdrawal symptoms can be eased and complications prevented.

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