Alcohol addiction is a very serious problem that can be life-threatening if left untreated. That’s why we strongly encourage alcoholics to quit drinking and permanently abstain from alcohol. But what are the things that can happen to your body if you suddenly stop consuming alcohol?
What is your tolerance level?
The effects of quitting alcohol will be directly proportional to your tolerance level. If you have been an alcoholic for a long time, the withdrawal symptoms will be more severe as compared to someone who has not been drinking for as long. Alcohol overloads the brain with dopamine, and at the same time it reduces the brains dopamine receptors. Deciding to suddenly stop drinking alcohol confuses your body because it is reacting to the shortage of dopamine.
Is it dangerous to suddenly stop drinking alcohol?
The short answer is yes! Quitting alcohol can possibly be fatal. All people going through alcohol withdrawal will experience similar symptoms. Some of these symptoms include: depression, insomnia, anxiety, high blood pressure, shakes, nausea, headaches, and irritability. Generally, these symptoms are not life threatening, and with proper hydration and diet they will go away after a few days. However, some people will go through an extreme form of withdrawal called Delirium tremens (DTs). People that have DTs can experience hallucinations, extreme confusion, very high body temperatures, and seizures. Dts can be fatal if a person is not given the proper care and treatment during the withdrawal phase.
To avoid the risks associated with alcohol withdrawal symptoms and delirium tremens, we strongly recommend getting professional help in your journey to sobriety.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Milestone Health & Wellness here.