How to Recognize Alcohol Withdrawal
The harmful effects of alcohol on the health and body are no longer a myth. A lot of research has been done on the subject and now it is common knowledge that drinking is not the healthiest activity around. For those who have been consuming alcohol for quite some time, withdrawing from it is not easy. Even if they manage to get over their strong craving to drink, their body begins to show withdrawal symptoms such as shivering, agitation, fatigue and even seizures. However, it is important to learn to recognize these symptom and deal with them accordingly in order to help an individual successfully let go of his alcohol addiction.
Instructions
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Before you get down to recognizing alcohol withdrawal, you need to understand that the symptoms of withdrawal may vary from individual to individual. Knowing this is important so that you do not end up comparing an individual’s well-being to another individual who managed to do just fine after giving up alcohol. Another thing that you need to keep in mind is that repeated attempt at quitting alcohol can worsen the symptoms, as the body finds it harder to cope with the strong craving. In times like these, do not hesitate to rush the patient to the hospital in order to get him medical help.
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Do a bit of research to educate yourself on the different symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the symptoms that are serious or can possibly lead to death. Serious symptoms such as severe tremors, hallucinations, disorientation, fast heart-beat, severe agitation, hypertension, odd skin sensations, fever and pro-longed vomiting can be taken care off through immediate medical assessment and treatment. Seizures and Delirium tremens, on the other hand, are two of the symptoms appearing after abruptly withdrawing from alcohol that have proven to be life-threatening.
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Understand that the alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically appear because of the individual’s physical and psychological dependency on the chemical. Alcohol abuse affects the brain, causes sugar imbalances and possibly lead to diabetes and hypoglycemia. The blood sugar returns to normal after some time though after the individual quits drinking.
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You need to keep in mind that majority of the acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue and mood swings will fade away within a week’s time. However, heavy drinkers may find themselves exhibiting these symptoms for a much longer time, as their body takes far more time to make the adjustment.
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Do not confuse alcohol withdrawal symptoms with medical illness. It is a mistake a lot of people mistake. If you notice symptoms of depression, psychosis or bi-polar illness, seek medical help immediately.
