Overcoming alcohol addiction is difficult. Not only is it difficult to control the physical and mental urges to drink, but those who try to stop drinking suddenly often experience unpleasant physical withdrawal symptoms. Those struggling with alcohol addiction should talk to a doctor or mental health professional to find ways to treat their addiction while avoiding or reducing these withdrawal symptoms.
Signs of an Alcohol Addiction
Many people struggling with alcohol addiction display signs of their addiction, according to the National Mental Health Information Center. Signs of an alcohol addiction include an increased tolerance for alcohol, an inability to control or limit drinking, hiding alcohol or drinking alone. People with an alcohol addiction often experience sudden mood swings, irritability, anger, sadness, depression, defiance, impatience or seem inappropriately emotional. They may also lie about the amount or frequency of their drinking, and continue to drink despite the physical, emotional, legal, financial or relationship problems caused by their drinking.
Risks
Excessive drinking may lead to risky behaviors, unintentional injuries, violence, alcohol poisoning and miscarriage or stillbirth among pregnant women. Long-term risks of alcohol abuse include neurological or psychiatric problems, cardiovascular problems, gastrointestinal complications, social and relationship issues, cancer and liver diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal is an unpleasant condition that occurs when a person with alcohol addiction suddenly stops drinking. Physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal may include intense sweating, nausea, vomiting, pulsating headaches, dilated pupils, rapid heart rate, appetite loss, tremors and involuntary eyelid movements, according to Medline Plus. Psychological symptoms may include anxiety, shakiness, irritability, nightmares, depression, excitability, difficulty focusing and fatigue.
Delirium Tremens
Severe alcohol withdrawal can lead to a condition called delirium tremens. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment. Symptoms of delirium tremens include hallucinations, very high heart rate and blood pressure, high fever and extreme agitation, confusion or anxiety, according to the University of Michigan Health System.
Treatment Programs
Many treatment options are available for those struggling with alcohol addiction. Counseling or 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous often prove useful. Live-in residential alcohol rehabilitation centers may be more appropriate for those requiring intensive treatments, while sober living homes may benefit those further in the recovery process. Outpatient alcohol rehabilitation centers are also available.
Medications
In addition, some doctors or psychiatrists may prescribe medication to those struggling with alcohol addiction, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in their pamphlet "Incorporating Alcohol Pharmocotherapies into Medical Practice." Disulfiram is a medication that causes unpleasant reactions when combined with alcohol, while naltrexone blocks the chemicals in the brain that experience pleasure when drinking alcohol. Acamprosate is useful at controlling withdrawal symptoms. These medications should be taken in conjunction with other treatment options, like counseling or use of an alcohol rehabilitation center.
References
- National Mental Health Information Center: Possible alcohol and substance abuse indicators
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Alcohol Quick Stats
- MedlinePlus: Alcohol Withdrawal
- University of Michigan Health System: Alcohol Withdrawal
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Incorporating Alcohol Pharmocotherapies Into Medical Practice
