Alcohol withdrawal tremors, also known as the shakes, are a common symptom of alcohol dependence. While these tremors typically subside once a person has detoxified, managing them can be difficult. This article discusses strategies to reduce or mitigate alcohol withdrawal tremors, along with the broader context of alcoholism and withdrawal.
What Are the Shakes?
Alcohol withdrawal tremors refer to uncontrollable shaking or trembling in a person's hands and sometimes throughout the body. These tremors typically start within 6-10 hours after the last drink and are most severe between 48-72 hours after the last alcohol consumption. While most people experience alcohol withdrawal tremors to varying degrees, severe tremors can be life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention.
Cause of the Shakes
Alcohol withdrawal tremors occur due to changes in brain chemistry that occur when a person abstains from alcohol. The brain responds to the lack of alcohol by increasing nerve activity to maintain a heightened state of alertness. Withdrawing from alcohol suddenly results in excess nerve activity, leading to tremors, anxiety, and other withdrawal symptoms.
Management of tremors
Managing alcohol withdrawal tremors typically involves a combination of medical supervision, lifestyle changes, and stress management strategies. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before quitting alcohol to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
Medications
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help suppress alcohol withdrawal tremors, including:
- Baclofen: A muscle relaxant that affects the central nervous system. It may be effective at reducing alcohol withdrawal tremors.
- Benzodiazepines: Used to treat withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, but must be used under close medical supervision. Valium, Librium, Ativan, and Serax are benzodiazepines that may be prescribed to treat alcohol withdrawal tremors.
Lifestyle Changes
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce alcohol withdrawal tremors. These include:
- Drinking plenty of water and other non-caffeinated beverages. Staying hydrated throughout detox helps flush toxins from the body, which may lessen shakes, as well as relieve other withdrawal symptoms.
- Adopting a nutritious dietrich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Eating several small meals a day to maintain a healthy metabolism and to reduce the likelihood of cravings caused by hunger.
- Practicing stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, mindfulness, or acupuncture. Deep breathing is an essential component to many of these practices and works to trigger the body's natural relaxation response.
Support and Community
Getting support from others who understand what you are going through is an important component of alcoholism treatment. Joining a support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, can provide emotional support and community resources to help you navigate the challenges of recovery.
##Managing alcohol withdrawal tremors requires a comprehensive approach that includes medical supervision, lifestyle changes, and stress management strategies. By adopting healthy habits and seeking support from a supportive community, individuals can effectively manage alcohol withdrawal tremors and improve their chances of successful recovery from alcohol abuse.