How can you identify and treat alcohol withdrawal?

Those who struggle with alcohol abuse have a higher likelihood of facing DWI charges. If you struggle with substance abuse disorder, you need to know how to identify and treat the withdrawal to take control of your life.

According to WebMD, your symptoms may range from mild to severe.

How can you identify alcohol withdrawal symptoms?

You may begin to see signs of withdrawal in as few as six hours. The initial symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating
• Anxiety and insomnia
• Shaky hands

After about 12 to 46 hours, you may face more serious symptoms. You may begin to experience hallucinations or seizures. Often those with withdrawals claim to hear, feel or see things that do not exist.

In the next 48 to 72 hours, you could have delirium tremens. These severe symptoms include delusions and hallucinations. While only 5% of people struggle with these symptoms, they may be accompanied by racing heart, high blood pressure, heavy sweating, fever and confusion.

How can you treat alcohol withdrawal?

Most people who undergo withdrawals for alcohol do not require more than a support system and a controlled environment. However, if you have high blood pressure, fever or serious withdrawal symptoms such as seizures and hallucinations, you should go to the hospital immediately. If you have anxiety or insomnia, a doctor may suggest benzodiazepines. Additionally, you may need anti-seizure meds or antipsychotics.

If you go through withdrawal at home, provide yourself with a quiet place with soft lighting. You do not want to have a lot of contact with others. Keep healthy food and fluid readily available.

Your struggle with alcohol withdrawal may not be the same as someone else’s. Your symptoms depend on how long you drank and how much you drank.