Most of us know that alcohol addiction is a serious problem that millions suffer from every day. While it is relatively well known what constitutes alcohol addiction and when a person has a problem and needs professional help, it is much more difficult to know when someone has quit drinking on their own and is going through withdrawal. No matter how long or short a person has been drinking, once they become addicted, it is never a good idea to quit alone.
At Hillside Mission Recovery, we know that recognizing the signs of alcohol withdrawal can help a person get the treatment they need to truly recover from alcohol addiction and get on the path to sobriety. In this post, we will look at alcohol, whether it is addictive, whether alcohol can cause withdrawal, answer the question “what are the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, and how to find an alcohol detox center in Mission Viejo.
Is Alcohol Addictive?
Not only is alcohol a highly addictive substance, but it is also one of the most readily accessible and available substances in America. Essentially anyone over the legal age of consumption can purchase alcohol from a number of different outlets.
One of the primary reasons why alcohol addiction is so pervasive throughout the country is due to the fact that it is so easily acquired. A key concern with alcohol use is that it does not take long for a person to become addicted. Once a person first tries alcohol, they may begin to drink excessively, or binge drink and become fully dependent on the alcohol to function on a daily basis.
Many people use alcohol due to the effects that it has on the body. It is known to lower inhibitions and reduce worry and anxiety, leading to a feeling of happiness. The downside to this effect is that the body becomes more resistant to the effects of alcohol over time, and a person must drink more to obtain the same feeling. This, combined with dependency on alcohol to cope with day-to-day situations, ultimately leads to addiction.
Can Alcohol Cause Withdrawal?
Yes, even in light drinkers, if a person decides to stop drinking suddenly and to “detox” without medical supervision, they will most likely experience withdrawal, and in some cases, the symptoms can be deadly.
The reason why alcohol causes withdrawal is because, like most other drugs, over time, the body becomes dependent on having the alcohol to function normally. If the body does not get the alcohol it needs, it begins to react in various ways and causes what we know of as withdrawal.
It is never a good idea to attempt to stop using any type of substance on your own or quit “cold turkey” as the side effects can be dangerous, especially when coupled with existing health issues.
What Are the Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal?
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can start within hours of stopping drinking. The initial symptoms are typically considered mild but can include: shaky hands, anxiety, sweating, nausea, vomiting, headache, and insomnia.
Within 24 to 48 hours of stopping drinking, the symptoms can get much worse and may include: confusion, hallucinations, heart palpitations, racing heart, seizures, tremors, fever, and high blood pressure. These symptoms can easily aggravate an existing heart condition or neurological condition and lead to serious complications if not supervised by medical personnel.
How to Find an Alcohol Detox Center in Mission Viejo
If you are struggling with alcohol addiction or have been through alcohol withdrawal before, then it is important to find a licensed treatment facility that offers a detox program for alcohol. Thankfully, you don’t have to spend hours searching for a treatment center near you; you can come straight to us at Hillside Mission Recovery.
We not only offer a full detoxification program for drugs and alcohol but it is also supervised by our well-trained and caring staff so that you are kept safe throughout the entire process. Once detox ends, you can begin treatment in our residential inpatient treatment facility, where we offer a wide array of treatment options to get you clean and sober.
Once treatment ends, we offer aftercare services that allow the care to continue. Our clients have the highest chances of maintaining sobriety and leading a successful, alcohol-free life.
If you or someone you know is suffering from alcohol addiction, contact Hillside Mission Recovery today!
