The Many Withdrawal Symptoms

How can withdrawal symptoms be spotted and identified, along with understanding their dangers?

Certain substances such as benzodiazepines and alcohol can be extremely dangerous and, in some cases, lethal. In other instances, like opioid withdrawals, symptoms are rarely life-threatening, but a person struggling can feel so uncomfortable they might feel like they’re dying. Withdrawals from other substances like meth and cocaine don’t pose life-threatening risks, but they can still take a heavy toll on the mind and body.

Alcohol:

The first indication of alcohol withdrawal symptoms can occur within several hours after the last drink and escalate between 24–72 hours. DTs (delirium tremens) can develop between 48–72 hours when heavy drinking stops and can typically last anywhere from 3–4 days, but up to 8 days in severe cases. Severe seizures are estimated to occur in only 5% of people who experience alcohol, but out of that 5%, it can be fatal for 15% of those cases without treatment. The most common alcohol withdrawal symptoms are as follows:

• Racing pulse
• Sweating
• Elevated blood pressure
• Insomnia
• Agitation
• Headache
• Anxiety
• Nausea/vomiting
• Seizures
• Hallucinations

Opiates/Heroin:

Opiates attach to and activate opioid receptors throughout the body. Opioid receptors activate a subsequent release of dopamine in the brain, which reinforces the continued use of the drug for its pleasurable effects. Opioids are vastly abused and highly addictive, and opioid dependence may develop after short periods of use, even when taken as prescribed. Opiates affect the adrenal gland, which can send the nervous system into a frenzy and create highly uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when someone goes without. Symptoms of opiate withdrawal are as follows:

• Nausea
• Trouble sleeping
• Frequent yawning
• Restlessness
• Diarrhea
• Flu-like symptoms
• Runny nose
• Muscle cramps/body aches
• Excessive sweating
• Goosebumps
• Hot and cold flashes
• Sneezing

Benzodiazepine:

Benzodiazepines are a type of drug commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, panic disorder, and certain types of seizure disorders. Central nervous system (CNS) depressants are a class of drugs that slow down brain activity, causing muscles to relax and bringing about a sense of calm. They are also known as sedatives or tranquilizers. Some examples of “benzos” are Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, and Valium. Symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawals are as follows:

• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Sweating
• Increased heart rate
• Trouble sleeping
• Seizures
• Nausea/vomiting
• Hallucinations

Cocaine:

Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that affects the brain by blocking the removal of dopamine from synapses. This drives physiological dependence on the drug because it reinforces a compulsive need for the person who uses it to keep using. Cocaine withdrawal symptoms include:

• Intense drug cravings
• Ongoing tiredness or lethargy
• Severe, negative change in mood
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Increased appetite
• Problems with concentration
• Slow thoughts and movements
• Paranoia
• Insomnia or hypersomnia

Methamphetamine (Meth):

Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Meth can negatively impact the performance of the central nervous system, respiratory system, and the cardiovascular system. People who use meth or other stimulants often follow a “binge and crash” pattern, repeatedly using meth every several hours, sometimes for days or more at a time. Since meth use decreases appetite and causes insomnia, people can suffer health consequences from nutritional deficiency and staying awake for days. Health problems may increase the severity of meth withdrawal symptoms. The symptoms of methamphetamine withdrawal are seldom life-threatening. However, they can be extremely unpleasant, and some chronic users may be at heightened risk for suicidal thoughts or behavior when “coming down.”

• Fatigue
• Increased appetite
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Aches and Pains
• Anxiety
• Irritability/Mood swings
• Depression
• Increased cravings
• Paranoia
• Feeling very tired
• Low energy level
• Not feeling motivated
• Suicidal ideations

If you notice any of the above symptoms with a loved one, they may be abusing drugs or alcohol. Or if you yourself are struggling with substance abuse, please give us a call before it is too late.