Common Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable, but they are temporary and more tolerable with the right medical and emotional supports. When seeking alcohol detox in Florida, consider Gulf Breeze Recovery Center, which will enable you to navigate this phase of recovery in a safe, understanding environment. Our non-12 step programs take place entirely within our serene, oceanside campus, allowing you the privacy to relax and complete your detox with the highest degree of physical comfort possible. Call our team at 833.551.2304 to learn more about how we can help you on your journey towards sober living today!

When I Stop Drinking, What Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms Can I Expect?

When an individual ceases drinking alcohol after a long period of continuous or near-continuous use, the body must recalibrate to repair basic neurological functioning. This results in the emergence of withdrawal symptoms within a few hours of the clients’ last drink, which will generally increase intensity over several days or weeks.

Withdrawal symptoms are one of the most common reasons for relapse and with good reason. Depending on the client’s unique history of substance use, age, mental and physical health history, symptoms can range from moderate to severe. Although post-acute withdrawal symptoms may be relatively short-lasting, they can be frightening and may cause dangerous medical complications if not undergone under professional supervision.

Some common initial symptoms include:

• Muscle aches and pains
• Auditory disturbances
• Headaches and vision changes
• Muscle spasms
• Digestive symptoms, including nausea and vomiting
• Reduced appetite
• Increased heart rate, pulse, and respiration
• Profuse sweating
• Mood swings, particularly agitated behavior

After clients have undergone the initial detox phase, some may enter a “post-” acute phase, presenting with more intense complications. These may include:

• Seizures
• Muscular tremors (referred to as delirium tremens)
• Hallucinations
• Respiratory problems
• Sleep disturbances such as night terrors
• Dangerously high blood pressure
• Spikes in body temperature

Due to the risks involved, clients must undergo detox with professional assistance, where they have access to IV units, ventilators, and other equipment that may be required in the case of a life-threatening situation.

Minimizing Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Hydration, either through the consumption of electrolytes (a specific ratio of sodium, potassium, and magnesium) or through a medical IV, can reduce the intensity of many withdrawal symptoms. Having access to a quiet, softly-lit space with little unnecessary social interaction except for compassionate, attentive staff members will reduce overall sensory stimuli, allowing the neurological system to adapt more quickly. Massage and low-intensity physical exercise can also aid in the body’s ability to detox and soothe aching muscles and promote more restorative rest.

Some clients, particularly those suffering from involuntary muscle contractions, may benefit from the temporary administration of select benzodiazepines such as Ativan, Serax, or Valium. However, these require close surveillance of vital signs. Many patients may also receive medicinal doses of certain vitamins and minerals in which they have grown deficient such as vitamin C, folate, thiamin, or even macronutrients such as carbohydrates in the form of intravenous glucose until their normal appetite returns.

Finally, holistic health care techniques such as a nutritious diet, meditation, and yoga can help clients remain calm and centered as they begin to focus on the emotional/psychological components of their healing.

Treatment of Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms at Gulf Breeze Recovery

At Gulf Breeze Recovery, we embrace a holistic approach to treatment, which encompasses every aspect of the client experience, from 24/7 medical supervision to access to our peaceful waterfront property. Call us today at 833.551.2304 to learn more about our alcohol treatment programs and how we can help you regain permanent control over your life. Alcohol detox in Florida is just a phone call away.