Alcohol Rehabilitation

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

Someone suffering from an alcohol addiction can experience anxiety, irritability, palpitations, tremors, insomnia and depression, all of which can lead to the desire for more alcohol to relieve these symptoms.

Alcohol also alters the transmission of nerve impulses, so users can experience a loss of balance, numbness of the hands and feet, and tremors.

The prolonged use of alcohol disrupts the brain’s chemistry to such a degree that the person’s cognitive abilities are severely impaired, resulting in a loss of judgement, slowed reaction time, and unpredictable or erratic behaviour.

Signs that you may be struggling with alcoholism and should seek support

• You have built up a tolerance to alcohol, meaning that you need to drink more to feel the same effects.
• You drink heavily on your own, even to the point of passing out.
• You have intense cravings for alcohol, to the extent that they affect your mood and concentration levels.
• You miss out on special occasions due to your drinking habits.
• You feel like alcohol has taken over your life.
• You lie or are deceptive about your drinking habits.
• You continue to drink despite the negative effects it has had on your home, work, social life, or mental health.
• If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these signs, it is important to reach out for help.

Contact New Leaf Recovery today and seek the support and guidance you need.

Risks of Alcohol Addiction

Physically, an alcohol addiction can also lead to severe liver damage and scarring (cirrhosis), high blood pressure, inflammation of the digestive system, impotence, and malnutrition. It increases the risk of cancer of the larynx, liver, oesophagus, and colon.

Over-consumption of alcohol over a short period of time can also lead to blackouts. This condition, called Anterograde Amnesia – is the inability to recall recent events. When the blood alcohol concentration increases rapidly over a short period of time, it blocks the brain’s ability to retain short-term memory during that time.

The impact of alcohol addiction is not only disabling to your health, but it also affects personal relationships with loved ones, professional performance, social interactions, and the ability to manage the responsibilities of daily life. Because many people who are dependent on alcohol are unable to recognise that they have a serious problem; the initial, and probably the most important, step for alcohol addiction treatment is admitting that the problem exists.

Alcohol Addiction Withdrawal

Alcohol withdrawal can be a very unpleasant experience, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Here’s a breakdown of what it can look like:

Timeline of Symptoms

6-24 hours: After you stop drinking, mild symptoms can start to appear. These may include anxiety, shakiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, and sweating.

12-48 hours: More serious issues can develop within this timeframe, including hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there) and even seizures.

48-72 hours: Delirium tremens (DTs), the most severe form of withdrawal, typically starts around this time. DTs involve vivid hallucinations, delusions, fever, and severe autonomic hyperactivity (increased heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing).

General Symptoms

• Physical Symptoms: Tremors, nausea, vomiting, headache, sweating, fatigue, loss of appetite, racing heart.
• Psychological Symptoms: Anxiety, irritability, depression, insomnia, nightmares, cravings for alcohol.

Important to Remember

Not everyone experiences all these symptoms, and the severity can vary depending on how much and how long you’ve been drinking.
If you’re concerned about withdrawal symptoms or have a history of severe alcohol use, it’s crucial to seek medical attention before quitting abruptly. Doctors can help manage withdrawal safely and recommend treatment options.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol dependence, you don’t have to go through it alone. New Leaf Recovery can provide support and guidance to help you overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment

Alcohol addiction can be a powerful force, but there is hope. Maybe it started innocently, but now it seems to control your days, your relationships, and your happiness. You’re not alone.

At New Leaf Recovery, we understand the struggle. We can help you break free from the grip of alcohol and reclaim your life. We provide alcohol detox programmes in our private alcohol detox centre in Birmingham followed by alcohol rehabilitation treatments and therapies. Get in touch with our team today to start your recovery journey.

Support for Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction can cast a long shadow, impacting not only the individual but also their loved ones. At New Leaf Recovery, we understand the complexities of alcohol use disorder and the courage it takes to seek help. If alcohol has become a source of struggle in your life, please know that you are not alone, and a brighter path is within reach.

Taking that first step towards support is a sign of strength, not weakness. At New Leaf Recovery, we offer a safe and confidential environment where you can begin your journey towards recovery within our alcohol rehab centre West Midlands. Our dedicated team provides personalised care, understanding your unique circumstances and tailoring treatment to your specific needs. We believe in fostering hope and empowering individuals to reclaim control of their lives.

If you’re ready to explore a life free from the grip of alcohol addiction, we encourage you to reach out. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions, provide guidance, and offer unwavering support. Take that brave step today; a new chapter awaits. Call us on 0300 999 0330 or complete our online contact form – we are here to help.