ONE ADDICT HELPING

One of the great fears of those with alcohol use disorder is often the disturbing withdrawal symptoms that go with the decision to stop drinking and enter some kind of alcohol treatment.  Before the user can begin treatment, however, the toxicity of alcohol should be flushed out. 

Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Anxiety
Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Cloudy judgment
Seizures
Delirium Sweats
Tremor
High blood pressure
Rapid pulse
Cravings
Hallucinations

Some choose to use a cold-turkey approach.  There are even those who believe that the
withdrawal process should be as natural as possible so that the alcoholic toxins can be sweated out of the body.  It can be difficult to endure.  Those that succeed will be prepared for the emotional treatment that follows.

For many, however, a medically-supervised withdrawal feels more comfortable.  In those cases, the user probably should be in a hospital or treatment facility that is capable of handling the complications that may arise during alcohol withdrawal.  Fortunately, doctors can generally lessen the difficulties associated with the withdrawal process. 

Medications that control anxiety, like Librium or Valium, are often used to block withdrawal symptoms.  The dosage is usually started at quite a high level and, after the individual is stabilized, the doses of these drugs are gradually reduced.

Some withdrawal methods also use naltrexone or some of the newer antidepressants which can be continued for the long haul.  Some people with alcohol use disorder have issues with depression that can be handled with a non-addictive medication while the individual is working on breaking the psychological barriers involved in addiction.