During alcohol detox, individuals may experience a range of withdrawal symptoms as the body works to rid itself of alcohol.
Here are 6 common alcohol withdrawal symptoms along with some practical ways to handle them:
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting occur during alcohol withdrawal as the digestive system tries to adapt to the absence of alcohol.
How to cope
Staying hydrated by sipping on water, herbal teas, or electrolyte drinks can soothe the stomach and replenish fluids lost due to vomiting. Also eating bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas or toast can settle the stomach. If the symptoms become severe, medical professionals in alcohol treatment can provide medications to help alleviate them.
Sweating and shaking
Often referred to as “the shakes”, sweating and shaking are common physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. They occur as the body’s nervous system becomes overstimulated during detox.
How to cope
Wearing loose, comfortable clothing and staying in a cool environment can help ease sweating. Shaking may be reduced by keeping stress levels low and using relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing. When undergoing drug treatment, the individual may be given medication to reduce the intensity of these symptoms.
Insomnia and sleep disturbances
Alcohol disrupts the normal sleep cycle and as the body readjusts, individuals in withdrawal may experience insomnia, vivid dreams, or waking up frequently at night.
How to cope
Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and a soothing environment for sleep can be beneficial. These and other useful techniques can be learned in a drug rehab program.
Anxiety and irritability
These feelings can surface within hours of stopping alcohol consumption and may persist for several days. This happens because the brain has become dependent on alcohol to regulate mood and without it, emotional instability occurs.
How to cope
Staying calm and grounded through breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, and meditation can help reduce stress levels. These and other coping techniques can be mastered in an addiction treatment center, with the help of counselors.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a natural byproduct of alcohol withdrawal. The body is working overtime to adjust to functioning without alcohol, and this can result in feelings of extreme tiredness.
How to cope
It’s important to prioritize rest to allow the body to recover. Taking short naps, avoiding overstimulation, eating nutrient-rich foods, and staying hydrated can also allow the body to heal.
Craving alcohol
During alcohol detox, the brain often craves the substance it’s used to, making it difficult for individuals to remain sober.
How to cope
It’s crucial to undergo withdrawal in a detox or addiction treatment center where professionals can help manage cravings through counseling, medication, and personalized treatment plans.
Find Support at Findlay Recovery Center
Going through alcohol detox can be overwhelming but you don’t have to face it alone. We at Findlay Recovery Center in Ohio strive to provide a compassionate, medically supervised environment where you can safely detox from alcohol and receive the care you need to rebuild your life.
Get started on your recovery journey today by reaching out to us. We’ll be glad to give you personalized treatment and support to help you reclaim and rebuild your life.
