Alcohol Detox Process What Symptoms are Present and Why

Alcohol is readily available for many depending on their age, but it’s also a huge problem for some. It is considered the number one drug in the United States with individuals between the ages of 18 and 29 being the most vulnerable. Since it is so readily available and easy to get, it’s somewhat easy to see how alcoholism can be such a huge problem and affect so many. In fact more than half adults in the U.S. have a close family member that has been affected by an addiction to alcohol.

Realizing addiction is a problem is the first step to getting better. Once a problem is realized, such as alcohol, a treatment plan such as detox processes can be started. These detox process vary depending on a number of factors, and the symptoms of these detox processes will vary as well. Some people will experience all the symptoms, while some only experience a few. Some symptoms will be painful and bothersome for some, but not quite as bothersome to others. Read below to see symptoms of this process and why some of these symptoms present themselves during detox processes.

Insomnia

Alcohol directly affects the brain, therefore the lack of alcohol has an affect as well. Typically those who consumer large amounts of alcohol over periods of time are used to drinking until the pretty much collapsed into bed. Without alcohol no only do they no longer have this problem, but the brain is more active. There is no alcohol to slow the brain down, therefore sleeping can become incredibly troublesome.

Nightmares

Without the presence of alcohol the brain is more active and not slowed down. It may also be in a panic state since it doesn’t have what it is used to having. This extra activity can increase the chances of more dreams including nightmares, since the brain is more active.

Anxiety and Irritability

The brain no longer has chemicals that it has been dependent upon for such a long time. This causes a host of changes in the brain and how it works. It can take up to a week for the alcohol detox process to be complete and anxiety and irritability can hang around that long. Practice measures like breathing exercises or listening to music to help calm you during this process.

Other Symptoms

Other symptoms that have been experienced throughout other individuals going through alcohol detox processes include confusion, sweating and headaches Some may experience weakness and heart palpitations, hallucinations and possibly seizures are possible. The extent of these symptoms will depend on your age when you start the detox process. How long alcohol has been a problem, and how much was consumed over that time will be another factor in what symptoms are experienced and how severe they are.

The detox process is not something that someone should experience alone. A good support group is important for those experiencing symptoms related to the detox process. Sometimes the process can be done at home, with time being the only thing that will help alleviate the symptoms, but sometimes a medical professional is needed to assist with the process. Don’t hesitate to seek immediate medical help for detoxing if needed. They have dealt with this before, it’s nothing new to them, and this is what they are there for.