The idea of using medication to treat even mild symptoms of alcoholism withdrawal might seem counterintuitive. Most people want to avoid using anything as a crutch for drinking or addiction in general. Medication can help with this part of the alcohol cessation process. It can also help you avoid the desire to drink after detox is complete. This part of addiction treatment is overseen by medical professionals to ensure there are no preexisting health issues that might make this a less than ideal option. Medications are often used to manage the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal safely.
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 https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/alcohol-detox-side-effects-what-bad-can-happen/ people recovering from alcohol addiction. The symptoms may worsen over 2 to 3 days, and some milder symptoms may persist for weeks in some people.
Benzodiazepines
If you have a sibling or parent with alcoholism, then you are three or four times more likely than average to develop alcoholism. Some people with family histories of alcoholism choose to abstain from drinking since this is a guaranteed way to avoid developing alcohol dependence. If you are concerned about your drinking, speak with your doctor. If you have withdrawal symptoms from drinking, then you have consumed enough alcohol to damage other organs.
Since it’s a toxic substance, it can hurt or kill neurons responsible for normal brain function. Research also notes that an intravenous administration Cure for Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms of benzodiazepines can help decrease the risk of delirium tremens. Click here to learn more about helping someone with alcohol use disorder.
How To Deal With Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal is common, but delirium tremens only occurs in 5% of people who have alcohol withdrawal. Delirium tremens is dangerous, killing as many as 1 out of every 20 people who develop its symptoms. Medicines called benzodiazepines can lessen alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Commonly used medicines in this group include chlordiazepoxide (Librium) and lorazepam (Ativan).
While it’s true that up to 50% of people with AUD experience withdrawal symptoms, only a small portion require medical treatment. Behavioral treatment programs are helpful for people who want to quit drinking. These programs involve working with a team of mental health professionals in a group and individual setting.
Here’s What Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Actually Feel Like
Individuals experiencing alcohol withdrawal syndrome should receive treatment according to the severity of their condition. Those with very mild symptoms can receive treatment as outpatients but may require the support and help of family and close friends for help. A healthcare provider will also run tests to rule out other medical conditions that have similar symptoms of alcohol withdrawal or occur alongside withdrawal. These conditions include gastrointestinal bleeding, infection, intracranial hemorrhage (acute bleeding in the brain), and liver failure. Treatment varies depending on the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
- It’s important to be honest about your alcohol use — and any other substance use — so your provider can give you the best care.
- Targeted alcoholism treatment for alcohol dependence can’t begin until the detoxification process is complete.
- Sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium are common electrolytes in sports drinks.
- Therefore, the risk of health problems with the heart and liver lessens.