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What is Alcohol Withdrawal?

When a person quits drinking alcohol abruptly after engaging in heavy drinking for an extended period of time, they experience a combination of symptoms known as alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS).

Tremors, seizures, and even delirium tremens are among the symptoms that might just appear mild,

moderate, or severe versions of the condition. The symptoms of AWS can be severe and life-threatening, so it’s crucial to get medical help right away.

However, depending on the person’s drinking habits, withdrawal symptoms may not start for six to 24 hours after the last drink. Age, sex, the frequency and duration of drinking, and pre-existing medical issues can all have an impact on how severe the symptoms are. A week normally passes before mild withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, anxiety, sleeplessness, and headaches, disappear.

Hand tremors, an elevated heart rate, and sweating are examples of moderate withdrawal symptoms that can last for up to a few weeks. Hallucinations, seizures, and delirium tremens, sometimes known as DTs, are among the more severe withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can continue for up to two weeks and include confusion, fever, and hypertension. In about 5% of cases of severe AWS, there is an uncommon and severe form of withdrawal called delirium tremens.

Shaking, excitement, and a high fever are a few of the signs of DT, which could develop worse with time. Rapid heartbeat, confusion or disorientation, hallucinations and seizures, as well as severe irritation, are other symptoms. The likelihood of having DTs may be higher in people with a history of hallucinations or psychosis, brain injury, or seizures in a prior AWS episode. Supportive and symptomatic treatments are part of the treatment for AWS. If the condition is moderate, no medical attention may be required; instead, the symptoms can be controlled with proper water, vitamins, and anti-anxiety drugs. Benzodiazepines are used in the treatment of intermediate forms, but hospitalization and the use of high-dose benzodiazepines are typically required for severe instances.

There are many websites that provide you information on Alcohol Withdrawal. You can visit one and learn more about the Alcohol Withdrawal.

In conclusion, heavy drinkers who abruptly stop drinking run the risk of developing alcohol withdrawal syndrome, a condition that could be fatal. In delirium tremens, an uncommon and serious form of withdrawal, the symptoms can range from moderate to severe. Medical management, such as the use of benzodiazepines, hydration, and vitamin supplements, is part of the treatment for AWS. To ensure the safety and wellbeing of persons who are experiencing withdrawal symptoms, it is crucial to recognise the indicators of AWS. It is critical to get medical help right once if you or a loved one is suffering with AWS.