Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous

[Deleted]

This topic has been mentioned in other posts, but is important enough to merit its own thread.

As the old-timers here know, our friend Dave was a real wise guy and jokester. But one thing he was dead serious about was the danger of alcohol withdrawal. Dave often said there's only one drug that can kill you during the withdrawal phase, and that's alcohol. (I actually think the same is true of some analgesics, but that doesn't detract from the point I'm making.)

It's important for people who are heavy drinkers to be aware of the withdrawal risks before giving up alcohol. Paying a visit to the family doctor is a smart -- and possibly lifesaving -- first step.

Yes, it's true that many people (including myself) quit on their own without seeking medical attention first. But at least in my case I had read a lot beforehand, so I was aware of the risks and watchful for danger signs. Many, perhaps even most, people are unaware of this risk, and that's not good.

Here's a link to a New York Times article about Amy Winehouse, who died of alcohol withdrawal. The article offers good information about this topic.

well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/08/03/amy-winehouse-and-the-perils-of-alcohol-withdrawal/

[Sam]

Here is an article titled "Nutritional Programs for Alcohol Detoxification"..... very informative and detailed, check it out.

www.globalhealingcenter.com/addictions/nutritional-programs-for-alcohol-detoxification

[blueskye]

Thanks for posting that, Sam. An interesting read. I would add that getting a blood test to identify deficiencies is key, otherwise we can not only waste money on supplements, but risk damage too. I take a daily multi-vitamin and B complex. I have regular blood tests done and thus far the only deficiency I have is Vitamin D. I've been taking a supplement for some months now, but still, I have a deficiency, so I've increased the amount, but only under the guidance of my doctor.

[Deleted]

Hey Sam,
Thanks for the link. Great article, very comprehensive and informative.

[Sam]

You're welcome ladies

[jenna]

Is it true that even after 48+ hours, withdrawal can be fatal?  

[achilles1957]

Oh Jenna, I wish there were more folks online to help you out with this one. I've always detoxed at home and have survived, sick as all hell and wouldn't wish it on anyone but it passes. From what I've read, yes it can be fatal but obviously depends on the amount consumed and over what period of time. I didn't have hallucinations which some people speak of and I kept telling myself that it'd be ok. Silly really as it is playing with fire. I guess you're the only one who can judge whether you need to get help from a doctor. Is there someone you can call to be with you? I suppose the best advice would be that if you're in doubt you should see your doctor. The fact that you're worried will add to your anxiety, heart palpitations etc. You would definitely feel better just by getting the all clear from your doctor.

I so hope you find the resolution you need. I'm in Australia and most folks on the forum are in the US and UK therefore the time difference.

Post how you're feeling if you can, might make you feel a little better.

Take care
Jenn

[Deleted]

Oct 13, 2015 23:23:56 GMT -5 jenna said:

Is it true that even after 48+ hours, withdrawal can be fatal?  

Hi Jenna,

Do you mean that you have (or someone else has) gone 48 hours without drinking? There are no pat answers to this question, but it's likely that most of the danger has passed after two full days. The whole idea is for someone who is dependent on drinking alcohol not to stop drinking suddenly because it can send his or her body into a tailspin -- and yes, it can be deadly.

Here's a good article on alcohol withdrawal that should answer your questions:

www.elementsbehavioralhealth.com/featured/dangerous-detox-at-home

A subhead in the article is telling: "Alcohol Detox is the Most Dangerous."