One out of ten people suffer from the consequences of alcohol abuse. Alcoholism is a disease characterized by dependency on ethyl alcohol; in short each drink triggers cravings for another. Alcoholism can lead to depression, anxiety, antisocial behavior, cardiovascular disease, liver damage and dementia. Alcoholics may experience severe withdrawal symptoms during at least the first week of abstinence. Perspiration, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, delirium, anxiety, tremors and convulsions can occur. Careful supervision of alcohol detox by caring attendants can insure safety and improve outcomes.

Prevent Convulsions

The most serious concern in alcohol detoxification is the prevention of convulsions in seizure-prone individuals. Often there is no warning, but increased tremors are an indication a seizure may occur. Prescription medications can prevent convulsions; if possible see a doctor before beginning detox and have prescribed medication on hand to help control tremors. Use of such medications should be short-term; as the alcoholic is able to eat and go about more normal activities they can be reduced and stopped. A quiet, restful environment is important. Alcoholics should not be left alone during detox because of the danger of seizures. Attendants should accompany the detoxee when using the restroom or otherwise moving about. Should seizure occur, prevent injury from falling, call 911 or activate EMS, and do not restrain the person or try to put anything in the mouth. Once the seizure ends, roll the person on his side in rescue position so that fluids can drain from the mouth and nose. CPR may be necessary if breathing has stopped.

Prevent Dehydration

Sports drinks, sweet sodas and juices will help to restore fluids lost through vomiting, diarrhea and excessive perspiration. Intravenous fluid replacement may be necessary if oral liquids cannot be retained for more than 24 hours. Do not hesitate to take an alcoholic with symptoms of dehydration--sunken eyes, listlessness, confusion, poor skin turgor (skin tents when pinched and does not snap back into place), and reduced urinary output--to the nearest emergency room.

Use Nutritional Remedies

The herbs kava kava and valerian root are calming and treat insomnia. Milk thistle, dandelion, burdock and honey support the liver. The alcoholic will crave sweets; fresh fruit provides needed vitamins and calories. Avoid saturated fats or fried foods that strain the liver. A free-form amino acid supplement aids in withdrawal and is important to brain function and liver regeneration. A B-100 complex taken twice a day with zinc and other minerals will treat common deficiencies. Since B12 is poorly absorbed in the stomach, a sublingual form or injections are necessary to restore nerve health.

Get Social Support

Alcoholics suffer from shame and guilt. Stopping drinking allows those feelings to intensify, which may lead to relapse. The support of other alcoholics, through Alcoholics Anonymous, eliminates feelings of being misunderstood and alone and can add meaning to life through helping other alcoholics. Unfortunately, alcoholism is a family disease that affect those who love and care for the alcoholic. Al-anon is a program of recovery where family members and friends of alcoholics can learn about the disease. Alcoholics with family members who attend Al-anon do better than those living with untreated family members following detox.

Source:

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency

American Society of Addiction Medicine