Alcohol Withdrawal: Symptoms and Treatment

Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) occurs when a person abruptly stops drinking after episodes of heavy or binge drinking.  Alcohol withdrawal can carry severe symptoms that may require medical treatment.  Alcohol withdrawal can affect you mentally, emotionally and physically.  AWS is unlikely to affect a person who drinks occasionally but it can have serious consequences for heavy drinkers that attempt to suddenly stop drinking without the help of a medical professional.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Doctors believe that alcohol withdrawal occurs because of the way alcohol affects brain function.  Alcohol works as a depressant in the body and can affect the way your central nervous system reacts. Heavy drinking may cause your body to become dependent on alcohol.  Your body is more likely to have an adverse reaction to stopping alcohol if you have drank heavily for a significant period of time.

Symptoms of AWS range from mild to severe.  They include:

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sleep issues such as insomnia and nightmares
  • High blood pressure or an increased heart rate
  • Tremors and seizures

Severe symptoms can be life threatening.  AWS may cause hallucinations and extreme confusion.  If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms it is imperative that you get help immediately.

Alcohol Withdrawal Treatment

Treatment for alcohol withdrawal may depend on its severity.  For some people the symptoms associated with AWS may subside over time and can be treated at home with loved ones.  If there was an underlying addiction or dependence on alcohol it is strongly recommended that you contact a professional to help you on your track to sobriety.

Moderate to severe cases of AWS may require medical treatment or even hospitalization.  There are a number of medications that can help to alleviate the symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal and medical professionals can make sure that you are safe.