Causes of Withdrawal
Causes of alcohol withdrawal
Millions of individuals in Virginia and the United States struggle with addiction and substance abuse. However, when an individual has become physically dependent on a substance, and then attempts to cease use of that substance, he or she is likely to experience the uncomfortable and often painful symptoms of withdrawal. This can occur when individuals put an end to their use of any addictive substance, including alcohol. The longer that a person has been abusing alcohol, the more tolerant his or her body becomes to its effects, meaning that he or she must consume more of it in order to achieve those same effects. With this increase in consumption, physical dependency develops, essentially meaning that a person’s body is no longer capable of functioning without the presence of alcohol and is in need of rehab. Therefore, when the person attempts to stop consuming alcohol, his or her body will go into a state of shock as it attempts to re-regulate itself. This process of reregulation is known as withdrawal.
Due to the fact that withdrawing from alcohol can be an extremely distressing experience, many individuals, in Virginia and across the country, find themselves returning to the use of the substance simply to find relief. Thus, the cycle of alcohol abuse and addiction continues.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Signs of alcohol withdrawal
The signs that may indicate that a person is withdrawing from alcohol will vary amongst individuals, but may include, yet are not limited to, the following:
- Overpowering cravings
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Hand tremors
- Psychomotor agitation
- Insomnia
- Seizures
- Anxiety
- Hallucinations
- Excessive sweating
- Increased pulse rate (exceeding 100 beats per minute)
If any of these symptoms are being displayed by an individual, it is important that medical care at a licensed addiction treatment center be sought as soon as possible. If left untreated, alcohol withdrawal has the potential to result in a grave outcome.
Seeking Treatment for Alcoholism
Why seek treatment for alcohol abuse
When an addiction to alcohol is allowed to persist without intervention or rehab, an individual can face countless detriments. Careers can falter, relationships can be placed in jeopardy, marital strife can arise, child custody can be lost, and interaction with the legal system may become a reality if dangerous acts are participated in while under the influence (e.g. drinking and driving). Additionally, the ongoing use of alcohol can cause a deterioration of one’s mental health, leading to the onset of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and even psychosis. Furthermore, an individual’s physical health is placed at ongoing risk as well. Addictions to alcohol have been known to cause individuals to suffer from heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, and brain damage. Malnutrition, jaundice, gastrointestinal bleeding, and an overall weakened immune system have all also been known to impact the lives of those battling an addiction to alcohol.
In addition to the aforementioned, the longer that an individual continues to engage in the excessive consumption of alcohol, the more at risk he or she becomes to experiencing an overdose. Overdosing on alcohol, which is also known as alcohol poisoning, has the potential to be deadly.
Fortunately, these detriments can be successfully avoided when individuals choose to take part in comprehensive treatment at a reputable addiction treatment center that is designed to help them overcome their addictions to alcohol. At Life Center of Galax, in Virginia, we recognize the complexities that surround an alcohol addiction, and we understand how difficult it can be to come to terms with the fact that a problem exists. We applaud those who make the courageous decision to seek treatment and we are proud to offer comprehensive, individualized rehab plans to all who are entrusted into our care. At Life Center of Galax, a recovered life can be discovered.
If you or someone you care about could benefit from the life-changing care that we offer here at our addiction treatment center, please do not hesitate to contact us today.
