How Do You Taper Off Alcohol Usage?

 

There are individuals who can just quit alcohol without experiencing considerable withdrawal symptoms.  However, there are others who may experience severe symptoms of withdrawal when they stop drinking suddenly.  Withdrawing from alcohol is potentially fatal and as such, it is extremely essential that you gradually detoxify from alcohol if you start to experience severe symptoms when attempting to quit.  Tapering off alcohol is a great way to gradually detoxify.   

Severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms are typically experienced by:

• Individuals who have remained drunk for several consecutive days
• Individuals who have consumed small quantities throughout the day for 30 days or more
• Individual who are known to have alcohol withdrawal symptoms
• Individuals who have become intoxicated each night for 30 days or more

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms can be classified as severe, moderate and mild.

Severe

Also known as D.T.s or Delirium Tremens, severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically happen 48 hours after the decrease or cessation of alcohol consumption.  Intense sweating, rapid breathing, blood pressure spikes, agitation, irregular heartbeat and disorientation are some of the characteristics of severe withdrawal.  Left untreated, D.T.s will kill approximately 1 in 5 individuals.

Moderate

This typically happens between 24 and 36 hours after the intake of alcohol has ceased.  It is usually manifested as tremors, high blood pressure, intense anxiety, racing pulse, seizures, hallucinations and insomnia. 

Mild

Typically, mild alcohol withdrawal happens with 24 hours of having the last drink.  Insomnia, increased pulse rate, upset stomach, panic, anxiety and twitching are some of the characteristics of mild withdrawal symptoms.

Is Tapering Off Alcohol Right For Me?

After not drinking, if you start to sweat profusely, your blood pressure spikes, your hands become visibly shaky or you have irregular or rapid pulse, tapering off alcohol would be would be ideal.  Prescription medication or alcohol can be used to taper off.

Using Alcohol to Taper Off

When tapering off alcohol, it is tremendously important to replenish lost vitamins and fight dehydration.  During a medical detoxification, an IV may be used for re-hydration and vitamin shots could also be administered.  If you are self-detoxifying, ensure that you take vitamin supplements and drink lots of fluids. 

Important Note About Tapering Off Alcohol

Tapering off alcohol by yourself is not suggested for those who experience moderate or greater withdrawals. If you are experiencing any type of withdrawals from alcohol, it is highly recommended that you seek treatment from medical professionals or through addiction treatments facilities and rehab.

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