alcohol detox side effects

It does this by reducing the excitatory portion of the CNS called the glutamate receptors while increasing the inhibitory portion called the gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors. The doctor may ask for evidence that there has been a decrease in alcohol use after regular heavy use. Anyone that thinks they are dependent on alcohol should consider speaking to a doctor.

alcohol detox side effects

Medications for Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

  • While some symptoms may persist for a few weeks, most of them are minor and can be treated with medication.
  • Symptoms can become severe, and it can be difficult to predict which people will develop life-threatening symptoms.
  • Research shows that some damage to your brain, liver, heart, and gut done by alcohol will slowly heal when you stop drinking.
  • PAWS can cause relapse,13 so it’s important to prepare yourself for it.

In addition to benzodiazepines, a person may also require other medications, such as phenytoin, barbiturates, and sedatives, which include propofol, ketamine, or dexmedetomidine. Research also notes that an intravenous administration of benzodiazepines can help decrease the risk of delirium tremens. Symptoms can become severe, and it can be difficult to predict which people will develop life-threatening symptoms. Too much alcohol can irritate the stomach lining, cause dehydration, and lead to an inflammatory response in the body.

Stages of Alcohol Withdrawal

alcohol detox side effects

Those with a wider circle of support have a better chance of staying sober. This process temporarily restores homeostasis, or chemical balance, in an effort to counteract the impact of long-term alcohol use on the brain. “If there are actual lab abnormalities, it’s a sign that you need to take a break,” Bonthala says. There’s some research that suggests red wine might be the best choice for people who want to drink occasionally. In fact, Pabla says, some small studies have found that 1 to 3 grams of red wine per week might improve inflammation in the gut.

Alcohol Withdrawal Stages and Severity

It can be helpful to write down your reasons for quitting and alcohol detox side effects the difficulty of withdrawal while it is fresh in your mind.

✔️ Alcohol withdrawal can cause physical sickness, which may result in loss of appetite or make it difficult to take in food. Taking in enough nutrients and keeping yourself properly hydrated during and after detox https://ecosoberhouse.com/ can help improve both the look and feel of your skin. In extreme cases, the brain can have problems regulating breathing and circulation. Symptoms of AWS are often treated with sedatives called benzodiazepines.

  • It is possible to get treatment and live a healthier life with a better relationship with alcohol.
  • Treatment can occur in various settings, such as the emergency room, outpatient clinic, intensive care unit, or detoxification facility.

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a set of symptoms that occur when someone who is physically dependent upon alcohol suddenly stops drinking or drastically reduces their alcohol intake. Treating alcohol withdrawal is a short-term fix that doesn’t help the core problem. When you talk to your doctor about symptom relief, it’s a good idea to discuss treatment for alcohol abuse or dependence. If your blood pressure, pulse, or body temperature rises, or if you have more serious symptoms like seizures and hallucinations, seek medical care immediately (dial 911).