Substance abuse treatment is a process that helps individuals struggling with addiction to alcohol or drugs. It is designed to help them overcome their addiction and lead a healthier, more productive life. Family interventions can be an important first step in the recovery process, as they provide support and guidance to those affected by substance abuse. It is estimated that around half of all alcoholics experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking.
These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and may include headaches, high blood pressure, nausea, and vomiting. However, those who have been drinking heavily for a long period of time are at the highest risk of developing delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening and require emergency medical attention. Excessive drinking is defined as four or more drinks at once for women, and five or more drinks at once for men. If you are undergoing an alcohol detox and have a fever that lasts for more than 72 hours, it is important to seek medical help right away.
When someone stops drinking abruptly, the brain has to quickly adapt to the new chemical imbalance caused by the lack of alcohol, which can lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Alcohol and drug addiction can have a devastating effect on the entire family. Acute alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) refers to the common withdrawal symptoms experienced by heavy drinkers when they suddenly reduce their alcohol intake after prolonged periods of heavy drinking. In some cases, a fever may be present during an alcohol detox without any other identifiable cause. This could be an indication that the detoxification process has taken an unexpected turn.
In addition to fever, other serious conditions such as delirium tremens can occur during alcohol withdrawal. We recently encountered a patient with an alcohol use disorder who presented with hypovolemic shock and acute renal failure during alcohol abstinence. He had severe diaphoresis and fever despite consuming almost all of the food offered. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome occurs when someone suddenly stops drinking after prolonged and excessive consumption of alcohol, and can lead to life-threatening health complications. Fever may be beneficial during an alcohol detox as it could indicate a related illness such as a kidney infection caused by dehydration. Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon offer an outlet for those recovering from alcohol addiction to discuss treatment goals and challenges with others in similar situations. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (SAW) is the name given to the symptoms that occur when a heavy drinker suddenly stops using alcohol or significantly reduces it.
It is important to note that fever is not necessary for a diagnosis of SAW, but it is classified as a symptom of the first degree along with tremors, increased heart rate, and sweating. Alcohol abstinence is the changes that the body experiences after someone suddenly stops drinking after prolonged and excessive consumption of alcohol. It is important to seek medical help if you are undergoing an alcohol detox and have a fever that lasts for more than 72 hours.
