Substance addiction or the state of being dependent to a certain substance like methamphetamine (also known as shabu in the Philippines) in spite of the harmful effects it brings is a negative condition that affects the lives of many Filipinos, adult and teenagers alike. This potentially destructive health hazard have numerous roots and causes numerous consequences that concern an individual’s personal and social being. It also influences personal feelings, thoughts and outlooks through habitual consumption. Repetitive use of illegal drugs (and legal products such as alcohol and cigarettes) to deal with everyday stress could lead to substantial and strong addiction. And the long exposure to this addiction is connected with complicated end results prior to and during the stage of rehabilitation – and these are withdrawal symptoms.
What are Withdrawal Symptoms?
Alcohol and / or drug withdrawal symptoms or WITHDRAWAL SYNDROMES take place due to some disruptions of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. It starts when an individual stops abruptly in taking alcohol or drugs. The brain’s sudden “feeling of changes” creates triggers to the body causing it to react instantly.
When an individual drinks alcohol or takes drugs, the part of the brain produces chemicals that activate excitement and satisfaction. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters - messengers in the brain that transmit signals to the cell of certain parts of the body. As the person continues to utilize illegal drugs and alcohol, he will sooner or later become addicted to those products due to the "feel-good effect"(euphoria) they produce. The regular consumption will increase the body’s tolerance over those substances, yearning for uninterrupted and stable supply. When a sudden or dramatic stop is implemented, the body will immediately act in response to the lack of supply of what it used to have in the past. Once the body realized the absence of these chemicals in the system, the brain produces involuntary reactions, the effect by these neurotransmitters, and will generate several symptoms known to medical science as withdrawal symptoms.
The severities of alcohol and drug withdrawal symptoms depend on several factors such as age of the individual, his present physical condition and the length of time he is using and abusing drugs and alcohol. The type of drugs and the amount of intake can also be an aspect. Even the person’s genetic characteristics can be connected to some factors when assessing withdrawal symptoms.
"A condition known as ‘kindling’ may also occur meaning that the withdrawal symptoms will get worse on each occasion after a person abstain from using illegal drugs, according to research."
How Long do Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
Withdrawal syndromes can occur as early as three hours right after the effect of the last intake falls down. But it usually takes 24 hours before these symptoms start to manifest. Generally, they last for several days and in some cases, for couple of months, based on the factors mentioned above. Mild withdrawal symptoms will usually occur as early as 6 hours and can escalate to more serious symptoms on the following hours.
What are the Common Signs of Withdrawal Symptoms?
Minor withdrawal symptoms can include:
• Sleeplessness and fatigue, tense muscles and spasm.
• Restlessness
• Unsettled stomach, vomiting, loss of appetite, LBM (lose bowel movement).
• Uneasiness, irritability, nervousness, agitation, mood swings and shakiness (hands or face muscles).
• Sweating, clammy skin and/or pale complexion.
• Headaches that can lead to migraines and difficulty concentrating.
People who have a higher level of addiction who suddenly stop can experience extreme symptoms like:
• Severe anxiety, disorientation and/or confusion.
• Profuse sweating and possible fever.
• Tremors, high blood pressure and/or a racing and irregular heartbeat.
• Black-outs and/or memory loss.
• Hallucinations and violent reactions
• Delirium Tremens (DTs)
DTs or delirium tremens, also called “terrible shakes” is a serious alcohol withdrawal symptom. It usually occurs 6 to 8 hours after the last consume of alcohol but can appear as early as two to three hours. DT normally reaches its peak at roughly six days of continuous abstinence. Delirium tremens includes quick heartbeat, shakiness, confusions, fever, convulsions which will eventually lead to more serious condition like seizures in the brain.
Dealing with Withdrawal Symptoms
Individuals who have serious condition and are experiencing withdrawal symptoms should visit a rehab clinic. In a more serious situation, admitting the individual to a hospital is always the best remedy.
If you (or someone you know) are experiencing alcohol or drug withdrawal symptoms, you should immediately seek for medical help.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Tell Us What You Think: