Get medical help to make the break from alcohol

If you’ve decided you drink too much alcohol and it’s time to change, can you safely just stop?

Before you stop, it’s vitally important that you talk to your doctor about how to manage alcohol withdrawal, according to the June issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter. Changes in the body due to alcohol withdrawal can cause disturbing symptoms. Alcohol withdrawal can even be life-threatening.

Signs and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and their severity generally relate to how much alcohol a person consumes and how long he or she has been dependent on alcohol. Genetics may also play a role.

Withdrawal signs and symptoms may occur within hours of stopping drinking. These may include insomnia, vivid dreams, mild-to-severe anxiety, unsettled mood, agitation, irritability, tremors, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, headache, sweating, heart palpitations and hearing things that aren’t there. Some people run a low-grade fever, experience a rapid pulse or have elevated blood pressure.

Sometimes alcohol withdrawal culminates in the development of seizures or delirium tremens or both. Delirium tremens is characterized by markedly elevated blood pressure, agitation and visual hallucinations. Delirium tremens is a medical emergency requiring immediate care and hospitalization.

Prolonged heavy drinking increases the risk of many serious health problems. Deciding to deal with a drinking problem -- with the help of your doctor -- is a serious and important commitment to your health. You and your doctor can work out what could include medications to help minimize withdrawal symptoms. Another option is inpatient care, for access to immediate care if needed.