For a heavy drinker, the first days without alcohol can be risky. Here are the signs to watch for and why detox should be supervised.
Many families in Kerala have heard someone say, "I will just stop drinking from tomorrow." For a person who has been drinking heavily every day for months or years, stopping suddenly without medical support can be unsafe.
Why withdrawal happens
Alcohol slows down the brain. When someone drinks heavily for a long time, the brain adapts by working harder to stay alert. If the alcohol is suddenly taken away, the brain is left in an over-excited state for a while. That is alcohol withdrawal.
Signs of withdrawal
Symptoms usually begin within hours to a day or two after the last drink. Milder signs include:
- Shaking hands, especially in the morning
- Sweating and a fast heartbeat
- Anxiety, restlessness and irritability
- Nausea and poor appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
In some people, withdrawal becomes severe. Warning signs include:
- Seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not there
- Confusion, not knowing where they are
- Fits (seizures)
- High fever with severe agitation
The most serious form, called delirium tremens, is a medical emergency.
If someone who has stopped drinking becomes confused, has a fit or sees things that are not there, call 112 or take them to hospital immediately.
What supervised detox involves
In a medically supervised detox, the doctor assesses how severe the dependence is and gives medicines that ease withdrawal and prevent complications. Vitamins, especially thiamine, are usually given because heavy drinking depletes them. The person is monitored through the most risky days.
Detox is only the beginning
Getting through withdrawal is the first step, not the cure. Lasting recovery usually needs counselling, a relapse prevention plan, involvement of the family and regular follow-up.
If you are worried about yourself or someone close to you, call us on +91 90727 72776, at any hour.
This article is general information and not a substitute for advice from a doctor who has examined you.
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