For alcohol dependants, it is not simple to give up drinking. They suffer from alcohol withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to cut its consumption abruptly.
Detoxing from alcohol is not comfortable. An addict may experience following symptoms:
- Racing heartbeat
- Sweating
- Increased blood pressure
- Fever
- A headache
- Mood swings
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Seizures
These symptoms usually start in less than 12 hours after consumption of the last drink. Those who experience mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms may safely detox from alcohol at home. But those who suffer shakes, confusion and tremors better opt for medically supervised detox.
How To Safely Detox From Alcohol At Home
Some alcohol addict with mild withdrawal symptoms may choose to detoxify at home because there is no place like home that makes you feel comfortable, controlled and safe. But it is risky, and you need to be extra cautious.
Here is few things you need to keep in mind to safely detox from alcohol at home.
- Slowly reduce alcohol consumption- Abruptly cutting alcohol may be lead to severe and life-threatening alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Better cautiously tapper its consumption. The idea is to consume small amounts of beer. Beer is optimal drink, and anything stronger to it will lead to drunkenness. The number of beer depends on the individual, how long he has been drinking and in what amount. To start with generally 12 ounces of beer an hour is recommended. Slowly decrease the amount or increase the time duration. Make it 8 ounces after 3 hours and 4 ounces after next 3 hours.
HAMS recommended alcohol tapering schedule:
Day one: One beer per hour for a total of 16 beers
Day two: One beer per 90 minutes for a total of 10 beers
Day three: Eight beers consumed throughout the day
Day four: Six beers consumed throughout the day
Day five: Four beers consumed throughout the day
Day six: Two beers consumed throughout the day
Day seven: Zero beers
- What to eat – Eating right is an important step of recovery. Eat light foods, fresh vegetables and fruits rich in calcium, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin E and magnesium. Do not wholly neglect whole grains and lean protein.The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal such as anxiety, fatigue, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea and depression may limit your eating ability. These symptoms may last for 1-3 days. Eat only when you are hungry and do not force feed If you are eating before your body is ready, you will put an extra burden on overworking body organs.
- Stay hydrated – Drink lots of water to get rid of toxins and rehydrate your body.
- Drink electrolytes – Alcohol withdrawal causes electrolyte imbalances and leads to side effects such as numbness, seizures and muscle spasm. Consume beverages that contain electrolyte so that your body gets vital nutrients such as potassium, sodium and
- Controlled breathing – Practice deep breathing to stabilise blood pressure, and provide brain and body with adequate oxygen.
- Listen to music or watch a movie – You need to keep yourself engaged. Prepare a list of your favourite movie or song. Watch a movie or listen to music to pass the time.
- Bathing – Taking a bath may ease the symptom of alcohol withdrawal. Take a lukewarm If you are sweating, place a cold towel on the back of your neck or on your forehead.
- Remove alcohol from the house – Remove all alcohol from your house once you have decided to safely detox from alcohol at home. Absence of alcohol will help you control the carvings.
- Find support – Alcohol detox is not simple. Don’t do it alone. Find a friend or a family member to ensure your safety and who could get help in case symptoms get severe.
Detox from alcohol at home is only recommended if withdrawal symptoms are mild and your willpower is strong enough to hold cravings. If at any step the symptoms become severe or painful seek medical help.
*Do not take any medicine without consulting a professional.
