If your son has a history of alcohol abuse or addiction, but a desire to stop, then he may have decided to take matters into his own hands. Unfortunately, trying to withdraw from alcohol alone can be a dangerous and risky endeavor, and one that is often unsuccessful. If parents observe alcohol withdrawal symptoms, taking action may be necessary. Helping loved ones in withdrawal get help and medical supervision in a detox facility can be integral to lasting health and sobriety.
Nausea, Vomiting and Abdominal Pain
The most immediate and most common alcohol withdrawal symptoms tend to be related to the digestive system. Your son may be suffering from nausea, throwing up often or having a generally upset stomach. Abdominal pain could present itself, and individuals tend to be very uncomfortable. It’s unlikely that individuals want to eat or drink anything at all during the first stages of alcohol withdrawal.
Although nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain can persist, these alcohol withdrawal symptoms tend to be present in the first 12 hours of withdrawal. They may persist until 72 hours into the process, where they peak, but they may be overshadowed by worse symptoms at that stage.
Increased Body Temperature and High Heart Rate
A visible way to spot someone with alcohol withdrawal symptoms may be their body temperature is higher than normal. Your son, for example, might be wearing shorts and a T-shirt rather than pants and a sweater like everyone around him. A high heart rate only contributes to the heat, and flushed red cheeks can be a clear indicator of alcohol withdrawal.
Confusion or Hallucinations
Roughly 72 hours after the alcohol withdrawal has begun, individuals may begin to experience more severe symptoms. This can be associated with DT, or delirium tremens, something that roughly 5% of alcoholics suffer from when going through withdrawal. Your son might begin to be very confused, or he could even start to hallucinate or hear things in his head.
Shaking or Seizures
An aspect of DT can be seizures that deprive the brain and body of oxygen, putting the patient’s health at extreme risk. Even for those not experiencing DT, shaking or tremors can be common withdrawal symptoms. Not only are these alcohol withdrawal symptoms uncomfortable, they can lead to serious health complications in the future.
The Importance of a Detox Facility During Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Because of the potential severity of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, it’s important for those addicted to alcohol to seek help in a proper alcohol detox facility. Doing so can greatly improve the likelihood of a successful withdrawal, and it also greatly reduces the chance of health problems.
If you notice these signs or alcohol withdrawal symptoms in your son, getting medical help is crucial. Call 855-737-7363 for admissions information at New Start Detox, where your son can get the help he needs to beat alcohol addiction over the long term.