Local Rehab Investigates Alcohol Withdrawals

Houston, TX - SUN Behavioral Houston published a new blog post discussing what happens when someone is experiencing withdrawal from alcohol. They explain that withdrawal typically occurs in heavy drinkers only. Binge drinking is classified as drinking at least 5 drinks for men and 4 drinks for women within a 2-hour timeframe. Heavy drinking is typically at least 5 binge drinking occasions in one month. This means it is 15 drinks or more a week for males and 8 drinks or more a week for females. If someone has been drinking for a long time, they are more likely to experience severe withdrawal symptoms than someone who has only been excessively drinking for 30 days.

“Diagnosing alcohol withdrawal requires a full examination and accurate medical history. Medical staff may also do a toxicology screen to see if any alcohol is present in your system. If hangover-like symptoms do not start resolving within 12 hours, it is time to seek medical attention. Be completely open about the amounts of alcohol you have been drinking and for how long. In certain instances, medication is needed to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms,” the blog post states.

People might not experience every symptom of alcohol withdrawal. The longer someone consumes alcohol, the more likely severe symptoms will appear. However, there are some common symptoms that many people experience when it comes to experiencing alcohol withdrawal. Some people might experience restlessness and shakiness, while others might experience hallucinations or seizures. Others might have a headache and gastrointestinal issues. Sometimes, irritability and anxiety might appear for some people.

Alcohol withdrawal typically occurs in three stages. The first stage can begin as soon as 6-12 hours after the last drink. If someone has not been drinking excessively, they might only experience this stage. Symptoms during this stage include headaches and nausea. The second stage occurs around 24-48 hours after the last drink and is typically more severe. Seizures, irregular heartbeat, and irregular blood pressure might occur. The final stage is typically the peak in symptoms. These symptoms occur between 48-72 hours. Symptoms may include hallucinations, tachycardia, and tremors. These hours vary for every person, and no person will experience them the same way.

Alcohol withdrawal is caused by chronic use of alcohol. The receptors in the body will compensate for the number of neurotransmitters they produce because of the alcohol in the body. Over time, more alcohol will be needed to achieve the desired effect, as the brain works to find balance and make room for more. When someone stops their use of alcohol, the neurotransmitters become out of balance, creating withdrawal symptoms. This is why it is essential to involve a medical professional when detoxing from alcohol. Over time, these receptors will restore to a normal balance.

“Detoxing helps the body readjust to not having alcohol in the system. When alcohol is consumed on a regular basis, the brain and other organs become used to it. When alcohol is taken away, it can take time for the body to recover, but this process is very important to healing and long-term recovery,” the blog post continues.

SUN Behavioral Houston helps meet unmet needs in the community of Houston, TX. They have a specialized trauma program for women. They also provide no-cost care assessments so people can understand (and look forward to) healing from chronic alcohol or substance use. SUN Behavioral Houston also provides 24/7 crisis care that allows people to start their treatment process when a crisis arises, instead of waiting for a more convenient time when they might have changed their minds.

For more information about SUN Behavioral Houston, visit their website or call them at 713-796-2273.