If you have alcohol use disorder (AUD), quitting drinking is a wise decision. However, if you’re dependent on it, quitting is likely to lead to alcohol withdrawal. While this may seem like a common side effect, it can be far more dangerous than you realize. The physical and psychological symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can range from mild to severe, making it essential to seek professional support.
When you abruptly stop drinking, your body undergoes significant changes. You may experience tremors, seizures, or even life-threatening delirium tremens (DTs), just to name a few. And the psychological dangers of alcohol withdrawal can make it difficult to kick your addiction. So, while quitting drinking on your own is admirable in some respects, it can also be extremely dangerous.
You’ll get the support and care you need when you partner with an addiction specialist like ours at BOLD Health. We can provide you with the necessary medical supervision to ensure you detox from alcohol safely. It also increases your chances of successful recovery.
Addiction Treatment in San Diego
Understanding the Dangers of Alcohol Withdrawal
When you are addicted to alcohol, your body becomes dependent on it. So quitting can cause your body to react in distressing, dangerous, and sometimes life-threatening ways. When your body becomes dependent on alcohol, it creates a state of imbalance in your system. When that imbalance gets disrupted, that’s when dangerous withdrawal symptoms are triggered.
One of the most critical risks of alcohol withdrawal is developing delirium tremens (DTs), which is a severe form of withdrawal that can occur in heavy drinkers. The following symptoms characterize DTs:
- confusion
- severe agitation
- hallucinations
- dehydration
- electrolyte imbalances
- cardiovascular issues
If you experience DTs, they are likely to occur 48 to 72 hours after your last drink. Additionally, DTs escalate rapidly, requiring immediate medical intervention. That’s why enrolling in addiction treatment in San Diego is imperative, so you have a professional there to guide and support you.
Recognizing high-functioning alcoholism
Another one of the dangers of alcohol withdrawal is that it can induce seizures. Typically occurring within the first 24 to 48 hours after your last drink, they can range from mild to severe. You may even experience multiple seizure episodes. And because they are so unpredictable, medical supervision is crucial.
Additional Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Everyone experiences withdrawal differently. You may have mild discomfort, and you may experience severe complications. In either event, quitting drinking on your own can be very dangerous. Why risk it?
Common early symptoms, which can begin as soon as six hours following your last drink, include:
- anxiety
- irritability
- insomnia
- depression
These initial signs can be distressing and overwhelming, further complicating your recovery. Recognizing these symptoms early on is crucial for ensuring a safe detox experience.
As withdrawal progresses, symptoms can escalate and become more severe. Additional physical symptoms of withdrawal include:
- tremors
- sweating
- nausea
- vomiting
Struggling with these withdrawal symptoms can make it challenging to maintain your daily routine, adding increased frustration. Because withdrawal symptoms are so uncomfortable, it could even make you give up on your efforts to quit. Enrolling in alcohol rehab in San Diego can help you push through and stay focused on your goal.
In the most severe cases, you may experience hallucinations in addition to the seizures mentioned above. When you try quitting drinking on your own and experience these severe symptoms, it can be extremely dangerous.
The Risks of Self-Detoxification
If you’re determined to quit drinking alcohol on your own, self-detoxification may seem feasible. But don’t be fooled — it is fraught with risks. Many underestimate the severity of withdrawal symptoms and think they can manage detox on their own. Unfortunately, this can lead to dangerous complications. Your false sense of control could lead to severe consequences you can avoid with proper support.
One of the most significant risks associated with self-detoxification is the potential for severe withdrawal symptoms. And you’ll likely be unprepared for the intensity of these symptoms, which can escalate quickly and lead to emergencies. Without medical supervision, you can’t access meds to ease severe symptoms. This, in turn, increases the risk of life-threatening situations.
Moreover, self-detoxification can contribute to psychological difficulties, including heightened anxiety and depression. The absence of alcohol, which you may have relied on for coping, can lead to feelings of isolation and despair. Without professional help, these emotional challenges can become overwhelming and may lead to relapse.
The Importance of Professional Help for Alcohol Withdrawal
Seeking professional help for alcohol withdrawal is not just a recommendation; it is a vital necessity if you’re looking to navigate the detox process safely. Medical professionals are trained to recognize the complexities of alcohol withdrawal. They can provide the necessary support to manage symptoms effectively. Additionally, their expertise allows tailored treatment plans that address your specific needs, increasing the likelihood of a successful recovery.
One of the primary benefits of professional help is the ability to monitor and manage withdrawal symptoms closely. At BOLD Health, we can administer medications to alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of severe complications. Medical intervention is crucial in preventing the escalation of symptoms and ensuring you remain stable throughout the detox process. Our structured treatment plan provides support and a safe space where you can focus on your recovery.
Professional help encompasses more than just medical oversight. It includes emotional and psychological support as well. Detoxing from alcohol can be a traumatic experience. Having trained professionals to guide you through the process can make a significant difference. Support groups, therapy sessions, and counseling can help you address the underlying issues related to your alcohol use. This holistic approach is essential for fostering resilience and promoting long-term sobriety.
The Benefits of Seeking Professional Help for Alcohol Withdrawal
Professional help for alcohol withdrawal offers more than just medical aid. Professional assistance provides additional benefits like:
- Reducing the risks associated with withdrawal symptoms
We can effectively manage and mitigate severe symptoms by providing a monitored environment, ensuring your safety. This medical oversight is invaluable for preventing complications that could arise during self-detoxification.
- Fostering a comprehensive approach to recovery
Treatment programs, like ours at BOLD Health, often combine medical care, therapy, and support services. They address both the physical and emotional aspects of alcohol withdrawal. This holistic strategy gives you tools to cope with cravings, manage stress, and build healthier habits. Not to mention, it boosts the odds of lasting sobriety and growth.
- Providing emotional support
The journey to sobriety can be full of ups and downs. Having a dedicated support system can make all the difference. Professional help connects you with those who understand your struggles. It creates a sense of community and shared purpose. This support network is vital for motivation and accountability in recovery.
Quit Drinking Safely and Effectively With Our Help at BOLD Health
The dangers of alcohol withdrawal are undeniable. If you’re thinking of quitting drinking on your own, you must understand the risks associated with it. But if you want a better chance of achieving long-term sobriety in a safe and supportive environment, you can trust our addiction treatment in San Diego.
Our treatment programs are never cookie-cutter. They are tailored to your unique needs. We take the time to get to know you and fully understand what led you to seek our help. This allows us to curate an ideal addiction treatment program through our alcohol rehab in San Diego.
Your treatment may include:
- individual therapy
- group therapy
- family therapy
- detox
- medication management
- intensive outpatient program (IOP)
Quitting drinking is an excellent idea. But don’t do it alone. Do it safely with our help at our alcohol rehab in San Diego.
Contact us to learn more about our treatment options and to start your journey to sobriety.