Ask any individual over the age of 21 if they’ve consumed alcohol, the answer will most often be yes. In fact, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism estimates that 87% of the American adult population has consumed an alcoholic beverage. While many can drink an adult beverage with no issues, some develop an addiction. For those dependent on alcohol, putting a stop to drinking can seem impossible. Not only do they need the alcohol to function, but the alcohol withdrawal symptoms that occur are also enough to deter anyone.
Alcohol Consumption Facts
Before taking a look at alcohol withdrawal symptoms, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of alcohol consumption. While there have been publications that discuss the benefits of moderate drinking, it’s easy for things to escalate. Today, alcohol is third in the top leading preventable causes of death. Some other facts about alcohol consumption from the NIAAA include:
- Almost 17 million Americans suffered from an alcohol use disorder in 2013
- 1 of every 3 emergency room visits is from alcohol
- From 2006-2010, 1 of every 10 deaths was due to alcohol consumption
- About 88,000 deaths relate to alcohol
- Heavy drinking in men is about 14 drinks a week
- Heavy drinking in women is seven drinks a week
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms by Time
When alcohol withdrawal symptoms begin, they tend to stagger instead of occurring all at once. The longer you go without alcohol, the more severe symptoms become. After the first eight hours, individuals can experience insomnia, anxiety, depression, and a loss of appetite. A day after the last drink, symptoms can include sweating, irritability, disturbances in mood, and an increase in blood pressure. As a week approaches without a drink, alcohol withdrawal symptoms can become severe. Fevers, seizures, and hallucinations can begin during this final stage.
It’s also important to know that several factors can influence the level of symptoms an individual experiences. These factors are:
- Levels of stress
- Childhood trauma
- Medical history-both your own and family
- Co-occurring mental disorder
Tackling Recovery with Morningside Recovery
Morningside Recovery is here to help you end your dependence on alcohol. With alcohol detox, individuals can go through withdrawal in a safe environment. Members of our nursing staff are available around the clock to provide medical supervision for clients. Residential detox is available for those looking to safely detox from alcohol. Our alcohol addiction treatment options are here to give the help individuals need to recover from their addiction. Without the support, recovery can be tricky.
If you’re interested in our addiction treatment services for your alcohol withdrawal symptoms, turn to Morningside Recovery. Call us today at 855-631-2135 to begin.
