How to Cope with the Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome

Millions of Americans suffer from alcoholism, a devastating condition in which the use of alcohol literally rules every aspect of the user’s life. Unfortunately, alcohol withdrawal is a necessary step in the recovery process, but it’s also a step that is plagued by resistance, restrain and relapse. Users often believe that there’s no way they can possibly cope with alcohol withdrawal syndrome, and as a result, many continue drinking rather than seek help.

Coping with the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome can be tough – but not impossible! With the right help, with proper support and medical care, symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome can be overcome; but it will take commitment, time and involvement on your part.

Know the Risks

It is recommended that you seek medical advice before detoxing from alcohol.

The CDC recommends that anyone addicted to alcohol seek medical treatment as there are risks associated with alcohol withdrawal syndrome. While most people will not experience life-threatening symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, some may fall into a state of the DTs which is a very dangerous, potentially deadly, withdrawal that will require immediate medical treatment. Pay close attention to the following dangerous symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome:

• Extreme headaches that will not go away
• Bodily shaking and tremors that won’t stop
• Profuse sweating
• Vomiting and diarrhea that persists for days
• Spike in fever that is not related to illness
• Auditory or visual hallucinations

Coping with Symptoms

In treatment, you will be provided with various methods of assistance that will help you to cope with the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Medications such as antidepressants, antianxiety medications and similar substances may be provided to reduce the overall affects that the withdrawal has on your body. Rest and relaxation are also very important for your recovery.

If you are having trouble sleeping, your doctor may prescribe a medication to help you relax and fall asleep. Keep in mind that any medication that you take could pose additional dangers and should be discussed with your doctor prior to use.

Ultimately, the best medicine that you will have for your recovery is time. The length of time that it takes for you to overcome alcohol withdrawal and start to feel better will differ from one patient to the next. Generally, a few days will provide you with a good boost, within a week you will feel much better, and by the end of the month you will almost forget the symptoms of withdrawal were ever a problem in your life.