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I am an alcholic that wants to quit drinking, what are the ...


Sent to Health Experts July 31, 2006 5:21 p.m.

I am an alcholic that wants to quit drinking, what are the side effect of just stopping if my body is use to alchol on a daily basis...

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Female , Age: 32

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $8   
Info Request
July 31, 2006 5:27 p.m. (6 minutes and 19 seconds later)
REPLIED to Info Request Check Mark

Hi Customer (name blocked for privacy)-

How long have you been drinking daily for?

Thanks,
Emily


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PictureEsquireEmily  -- Counselor with advanced degrees -- 100% Positive Feedback on 481 Health Accepts
General medical experience + sexual and mental health. Worked in hospitals and clinics.
Reply to HealthGuru aka Emily
Sent July 31, 2006 5:28 p.m. (1 minute and 8 seconds later)

3 years
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Reply to HealthGuru aka Emily
Sent July 31, 2006 5:47 p.m. (18 minutes and 23 seconds later)

Is my question still be reviewed?
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
July 31, 2006 5:53 p.m. (5 minutes and 42 seconds later)
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First, congratulations for deciding you want to stop drinking!

Second, as you no doubt know, the best way to stay sober is by having a support group. This could be something like Alcoholics Anonymous - or it could just be a friend or family member whom you feel comfortable talking to about issues as they arise.

Third, when a person stops drinking "cold turkey" the range of withdrawal symptoms can be anywhere from mild and annoying to life threatening. It depends on the drinker, and how chemically dependent they are on alcohol.

At the very least, expect to experience strong cravings for alcohol. More likely, because you have been drinking daily for so long, you will experience what is known as the "shakes." This can manifest itself as anything from nausea and headache to actual shaking and trembling.

You may also experience what is know as the DT's, or delirium tremens. This typically occurs a few days after stopping drinking, and can take the form of hallucinations and sometimes seizures.

I don't mean to scare you, but you really should seek help before stopping. You should make an appointment with your doctor to get evaluated - he/she may also give you a prescription for medication to help with the withdrawal symptoms.

For more information about withdrawal symptoms, click here.

If you have any additional questions, feel free to ask!



__________________

If you found the advice helpful, please hit ACCEPT. If you are not satisfied PLEASE let me know, or ask additional questions! Thank You!
PictureEsquireEmily  -- Counselor with advanced degrees -- 100% Positive Feedback on 481 Health Accepts
General medical experience + sexual and mental health. Worked in hospitals and clinics.

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