Can You Die From Alcohol Withdrawals?

Can Alcohol Withdrawal Be Life Threatening?

Alcoholism is a serious problem that affects many people around the world. Alcohol withdrawal is a phenomenon that occurs when someone abruptly stops drinking alcohol after a long period of excessive drinking, and it can be dangerous if left untreated.

Alcohol withdrawal is the result of the body going into shock from no longer having access to alcohol after becoming dependent on this substance to function, which can cause many unpleasant and dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

So, can you die from alcohol withdrawals? Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes, you can. Without proper treatment and support, the side effects that come with fighting an alcohol dependence can be life-threatening.

Read on to learn more about potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms you may experience while recovering from an alcohol use disorder, and how you can find professional treatment to help you detox safely and successfully today.

The Dangers of At Home Alcohol Recovery

Alcoholism is a serious and potentially deadly problem that impacts millions of people around the world. Unfortunately, many people believe that they can recover from their heavy drinking without professional help, and choose to pursue an at-home alcohol recovery program.

When deciding to recover at home, this process will not be regulated or monitored by any professional medical or mental health professional. As a result, there is no way to ensure that the individual will be able to effectively or even safely recover.

Because of this, there is a risk of relapse and a risk of further health complications due to inappropriate or unsafe treatment. At-home alcohol recovery typically relies on self-help books, online resources, and support groups.

While these resources can be beneficial, they cannot replace the guidance of a professional. The professional treatment option provides an individualized approach to recovery, which is essential for long-term sobriety.

Cold Turkey Detox: Missing Out on the Support Needed to Stay Sober

At-home alcohol recovery also lacks the structure and support that an inpatient treatment center can provide. Without a structured environment and the support of trained professionals and peers, it can be difficult to maintain sobriety. This is especially true if the individual is dealing with severe or chronic alcoholism, which puts them at a high risk of relapse.

Finally, there is a risk of serious health complications when attempting to recover at home. Alcohol addiction can cause serious damage to the body, including liver and heart damage, which can lead to death.

Without proper medical monitoring, it is impossible to identify and address any potential medical issues. At-home alcohol recovery can be beneficial for some individuals, but it is important to understand the risks that come with this approach.

It is always best to seek professional help when trying to recover from alcohol abuse, as this is the safest and most effective approach. With the right help, you can achieve long-term sobriety and a healthier life.

What are Common Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?

Alcohol addiction is a serious issue that affects millions of people throughout the world. When an individual is addicted to alcohol, their body has become physically dependent on it and requires it to feel normal.

When this dependence is not met, withdrawal symptoms can arise. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe, and can even be life-threatening. It is important to understand the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal so that proper treatment can be sought.

Physical Symptoms of Withdrawal

The physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal are usually the ones to be most concerned about, as they can be quite severe, and often require medical supervision and support to be properly addressed.

Generally, individuals will experience “mild” symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, tremors, rapid heart rate, sweating, headaches, insomnia, fatigue, and confusion when ceasing their alcohol consumption after a long period of drinking heavily.

More severe withdrawal symptoms include high blood pressure, hallucinations, grand mal seizures, and, more rarely, a condition known as delirium tremens (DTs). DTs is a condition that comes with a variety of medical complications.

Individuals with DTs may experience seizures, high fever, severe full-body tremors, uncontrollable convulsions, and even death. It is important to keep in mind that alcohol withdrawal seizures can be life-threatening and may cause permanent damage if not properly treated.

Psychological Symptoms of Withdrawal

The most common psychological symptoms of alcohol withdrawal are anxiety, restlessness, agitation, and depression. These common symptoms tend to occur more for those who have co-occurring mental disorders or psychiatric conditions.

In these cases, recovering heavy drinkers may be at a higher risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts, ideations, and behaviors, which is why regular medical supervision is so important during the alcohol recovery process.

Recognizing the Signs of Alcohol Abuse and Addiction

Alcohol addiction is a serious condition, which is why it is so important to know how to recognize the signs of this condition so that those affected can get the professional help they need. It is characterized by a strong physical and psychological dependence on alcohol.

It can be very difficult to recognize, especially when it begins to take over a person’s life. Several signs of alcohol addiction can help you identify if someone you care about is struggling with this issue.

The first sign of alcohol addiction is a change in drinking habits. This can include drinking more often, drinking large amounts of alcohol, and drinking to the point of intoxication. It can also include drinking at inappropriate times, such as in the morning or late at night.

Additionally, a person may also experience cravings for alcohol, and they may have difficulty controlling their impulses to drink. Alcohol addiction can also cause social problems, as the person may become isolated and distant from their friends and family.

They may also have difficulty holding down a job or attending school or other activities. Additionally, they may become more belligerent or aggressive when they are drinking.

Of course, one of the biggest signs of alcohol addiction is when a person starts to experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit drinking. These symptoms can include nausea, sweating, shaking, and insomnia.

The Importance of Seeking Professional Treatment

For anyone struggling with substance abuse, deciding to seek treatment can be difficult. When it comes to recovering from alcohol, getting proper medical care will be crucial to overcoming this addictive substance.

Several treatment options are equipped to help recovering individuals through alcohol withdrawal syndrome and the more serious symptoms that can come with this condition. Early treatment will be crucial for successfully making it through the withdrawal process.

In most cases of alcohol addiction, individuals will be encouraged to start their treatment process with a medically-supervised alcohol detox program. Once this is complete, they can move on to further levels of care.

Medically Supervised Alcohol Detox

Alcohol detoxification, also known as alcohol detox, is the process of eliminating all traces of alcohol from the body. Most often, medically-supervised alcohol detox is the first step in treating alcohol addiction.

The goal of medically-supervised alcohol detox is to safely manage the physical symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal and lay the groundwork for long-term recovery.

When alcohol intake is suddenly stopped cold turkey, the body can experience a range of adverse effects and potentially life-threatening symptoms. Medically-supervised alcohol detox helps to ensure that individuals withdrawing from alcohol do so safely and securely.

When participating in a medical detox program, your treatment team can administer addiction medicine and other appropriate treatment to help manage the physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, as well as deal with any medical emergency that may arise during the recovery process.

Undergoing this detox process can help make sure individuals do not decide to return to their drug abuse in the early stages of recovery and set the foundation for successful further treatment upon leaving their detox facility.

Medications Used to Treat Alcohol Withdrawal

Alcohol withdrawal occurs when an individual reduces or stops drinking alcohol after a period of regular, heavy consumption. It is a serious condition that can cause severe physical and psychological symptoms. To address this condition, doctors typically prescribe medications to reduce the severity of the withdrawal symptoms and prevent serious complications.

Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, lorazepam, and oxazepam, are the most commonly prescribed medications to treat alcohol withdrawal. This help relieves the anxiety, headaches, and muscle tension associated with alcohol withdrawal, as well as reduces the risk of seizures and delirium tremens.

Anticonvulsants, such as topiramate and gabapentin, are another type of medication used to treat alcohol withdrawal. These drugs work by depressing the central nervous system, which can reduce cravings and prevent relapse, as well as reduce the risk of seizures and delirium tremens.

Antidepressants, such as bupropion and trazodone, are also sometimes prescribed to treat alcohol withdrawal. These drugs work by increasing the level of certain brain chemicals, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Beta-blockers, such as propranolol and nadolol, are another type of medication used to treat alcohol withdrawal. These drugs work by blocking the effects of adrenaline and lowering blood pressure.

Inpatient vs Outpatient Treatment for Alcohol Addiction

When faced with the prospect of alcohol addiction treatment, it is important to understand the differences between inpatient and outpatient treatment. Both approaches are effective, but which one is right for you?

Inpatient treatment is a form of addiction treatment that requires the patient to live at a specialized facility for the duration of their treatment. This form of treatment is highly structured and often includes individual and group therapy, medication management, educational classes, and other activities.

Inpatient treatment is a good choice for those with substance use disorders that require intensive care and a high level of supervision. Outpatient treatment, on the other hand, is a less intensive form of addiction treatment that allows the patient to remain in their own home or a sober living environment while receiving treatment.

Outpatient treatment typically includes individual and group therapy, medication management, educational classes, and other activities. It is a good choice for individuals who need more flexibility and less supervision.

When choosing between inpatient and outpatient treatment, it is important to consider the severity of the addiction, the resources available, and the patient’s individual needs. Inpatient treatment may be the best option for individuals with severe addictions who need a high level of supervision and support.

Outpatient treatment may be a better choice for individuals who can manage their own recovery and don’t need 24/7 support. Ultimately, the decision should be made in consultation with a qualified addiction treatment provider.

No matter which type of treatment is chosen, it is important to remember that addiction is a treatable disease. With the right treatment plan and support, people can and do recover from addiction.

Aftercare Services for Long Term Recovery

Aftercare services are an important part of the alcohol addiction recovery process. These services are designed to help individuals maintain their recovery, stay connected to their recovery community, and prevent relapse.

Outpatient counseling and therapy are often the first steps in aftercare services. These services provide individuals with the opportunity to address their addictions and underlying issues in a safe and supportive atmosphere. Counseling and therapy can help individuals develop healthier coping skills, learn about relapse prevention, and identify triggers to help them avoid relapse.

Support groups are another important part of aftercare services. A support group can provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can connect with others who are also in recovery.

For individuals who need a more structured environment, sober living facilities can be an excellent option. These facilities provide a safe and supportive atmosphere where individuals can focus on their recovery and build a strong foundation for long-term sobriety, as well as a range of services such as counseling, therapy, and job placement assistance.

In addition to these services, aftercare services can also include activities such as outdoor recreation, art classes, and social outings. No matter what type of aftercare services individuals choose, it is important to remember that recovery is a lifelong process.

Find Help to Stop Drinking Today!

If you or a loved one is struggling with an alcohol use disorder, the Find Addiction Rehabs team is here to help. You call our hotline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to find recovery resources and rehab centers nationwide.

We work with an extensive network of rehab facilities that follow both a clinical and holistic approach to the addiction recovery process. Call now, and we will help you take the first step on your recovery journey today!

FAQs in Addition to Can You Die From Alcohol Withdrawal?

How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last?

Most cases of alcohol withdrawal can start within several hours after your last drink, and will last between five and seven days. During this time, symptoms may come and go or they may remain consistent. In some cases, individuals may experience protracted withdrawal, which can last for weeks or even months after they have stopped drinking.

Can You Drink Alcohol to Taper During Detox?

While it is possible to taper down alcohol consumption, for most people with an alcohol use disorder, this is not viable. Valium and other drugs can help mitigate the chance of seizures or status epilepticus (repeated seizures that can lead to brain damage or death).

While trying to go ‘cold turkey’ and taper on your own might seem feasible, it is much safer and more effective to undergo alcohol detox in a supervised medical setting, with the help available.

Nicole R.( Content Writer )

Nicole R. is an experienced and accomplished writer with special interests in the fields of Anthropology, English, and behavioral health, and has written countless articles for newspaper publications, institutional research journals, and Find Addiction Rehabs.

Her alma matter is Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. Nicole hopes to spread awareness of and combat the stigmatization surrounding addiction and substance abuse treatment through her writing and work in the field.