This post will be about understanding the dangers of alcohol withdrawal seizures, the most…sobering…aspects of alcoholism and quitting.
I try to to keep things a bit light, or at least as encouraging as possible, but some of this stuff is just tough. Here, we have to discuss seizures, a daunting topic to be sure. But as you embark on this momentous journey of the alcohol-free life, you have to fully understand the inherent challenges and risks ahead.
As most recovering alcoholics will tell you, the process can be gut wrenching, and the best defense is to have a lot of accurate information and to maintain a positive attitude. Deciding to quit is one thing–it’s really important to keep at it.
Soon after you have decided you are not taking a bottle of alcohol ever again, you’re going to run into the monster of withdrawal. That entails severe side effects. These may vary, but the dangers they pose to your body are universal and at times may be deadly. One of the major dangers of alcohol withdrawal is seizures.
Seizures are an extreme example, but a danger nonetheless.
These seizures often happen within thirty six (36) hours of a person going dry. One of the most common symptoms fore-running this is dehydration: you’ll feel an unquenchable thirst, then probably nausea, profuse sweating, and hallucinations. Some other symptoms may include, body tremors,a high level of aggression and confusion.
Cramps and pains are pretty dramatic, but ironically, the worst symptom is dehydration. This causes an imbalance in electrolytes level. Once the electrolytes levels dip to a low level, you’re in danger of harming the liver. According to my research, a bout of meningitis can also occur with some other form of head injury too.
Admittedly, these seizures can be deadly if symptoms aren’t managed; emergency care is essential.
Even though there are several treatment options available; you’ll probably end up on a drip with IV fluids to boost your electrolyte levels, increase glucose in your blood, administer an appropriate dosage of thiamine, and provide you with the requisite amounts of oxygen.
Once you have stabilized; the doctor is bound to give some anti convulsion medication and prescribe some benzodiazepines that will help prevent any future seizures.
There are no proven ways to avoid getting alcoholic seizures; there are only measures that one can take afterward. The key point is to appreciate that an alcohol seizure can be fatal; it thus follows that anyone who intends to quit alcoholism must seek medical, physical and emotional help; and by this I mean something complete, much more than just getting a few days’ rest.
The above information is not provided so as to scare you or discourage you from quitting alcohol; I’m always trying to help, friends. Several studies have shown that an alcoholic who is well versed with the inherent challenges that he may face once he decides to quit alcohol is most likely to succeed; so be strong and gear yourself for the challenges ahead.
It’s a road worth traveling!
Photo Credit Mika Hiironniemi on Flickr.
