Alcohol dependents have a strong craving to drink alcohol and as the body is used to high concentrations of alcohol, the moment it wears off about 3-8 hours, withdrawal symptoms start to set in making it difficult for the dependent to stop drinking even if he or she wants to. Some of the withdrawal symptoms include feeling sick and feverish, trembling, sweating, convulsions and craving for alcohol. Absence of alcohol in their system triggers these symptoms that usually last for 5 to 7 days which result to more persistent cravings for alcohol and depending on it to prevent the symptoms. A more severe reaction is Delirium Tremens (DTs) experienced by 1 out of 20 people who have alcohol withdrawal symptoms which occurs 2 to 3 days after their last alcohol intake. Tremors and delirium are also common. Severe and intense convulsions may develop with complications that can lead to death.
Alcohol detoxification involves taking medicine to counteract the difficult withdrawal symptoms and prevent further complications. A physician may prescribe a high dose for the first day of the treatment that is gradually reduced over the next 5 to 7 days which greatly reduces or prevents the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. At this point, no alcohol should be taken until you finish the treatment. A breathalyzer is used to detect alcohol in your breath and confirm if you drank alcohol or not during the treatment.
Alcohol detoxification can be done either in hospitals or clinics and an alcohol dependent can undergo this treatment as an out-patient. Support from family and friends are important during this time as this treatment can be done at home under their supervision. The responsibility rests upon them that the detox medicine is taken as prescribed by the physician. Regular follow-up check-up is done to ensure that the dependent continues to be on the right track to recovery.
Some people may manage the effects of the withdrawal symptoms during the treatment but many others might not. There are some things to expect as they undergo the Alcohol detoxification treatment:
- Feel nervous and anxious for a number of days
- Have erratic sleeping patterns for some nights
- Feel dehydrated and wanting to drink
It usually takes will power for the alcohol dependent to stop drinking acknowledging the fact that he or she needs help. The dependent should make the decision to undergo this treatment and see it through with the help and support of family, friends and loved ones. Counseling and support can help them learn coping skills they will need because even after the detoxification period they might still crave for some alcohol and be tempted to drink.
Vitamin supplements particularly vitamin B1 (thiamine) are also needed especially during the alcohol detoxification treatment because people who are dependent on alcohol don’t eat properly and lacks certain vitamins which slow down brain functions causing serious malfunctions.
