What Causes Withdrawal Symptoms
Some substances can cause the body to become accustomed to it. When that substance is removed, the body can react violently and withdrawal symptoms may be the result.
Withdrawal symptoms include:
– Anxiety
– Irritability
– Insomnia
– Depression
– Heart palpitations
– Difficulty breathing
– Nausea and vomiting
Some withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening, including:
– Seizures
– Strokes
– Heart attacks
– Hallucinations
– Delirium tremens, or DTs
Substances that can cause withdrawal symptoms when stopped include:
– Alcohol
– Caffeine
– Nicotine
– Narcotics
– Benzodiazepines
Why Does Withdrawal Occur?
When a substance is introduced to the body, drug tolerance may occur. After a period of prolonged use, the body develops a physical dependency on the substance. Chemical dependency is another term that is often used to describe this condition. The chemistry of the body changes and cravings may occur as the body tries to fill its new need for this substance. These cravings may feel the same as a strong hunger for the substance.
Many factors play a role in whether or not dependency and withdrawal occur. Some of these factors are the amount of time the substance was being used, the type of substance being used, the strength of the substance and the route of administration.
The Science of Withdrawal
Human brains are wired to produce euphoric sensations under certain conditions. When a substance that alters the mind or mood is used, this triggers the release of dopamine. Although scientists are still not sure exactly how it works, dopamine appears to set off a reward system in the brain, and the brain will continue seeking ways for dopamine to be released. While the drug will initially set off dopamine release, over time, as the body acclimatizes, more and more of the drug is needed for the same reaction to occur.
The Stages of Withdrawal
Acute Stage — This is the first stage. It can last up to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the dependence and the other factors described above. This is the stage where the most uncomfortable or even dangerous withdrawal symptoms occur.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome — This is the second stage. Although physical symptoms decrease and fall away, emotional and psychological symptoms can last for as long as two years and sometimes longer. The symptoms may come and go in episodes.
Seeking Help
Withdrawing from most chemicals is challenging, but withdrawal from some substance, in particular benzodiazepines, can be fatal. Proper supervision is necessary to be sure that withdrawal occurs in as safe a manner as possible. For these substances, cold turkey withdrawal, or suddenly stopping the substance, can be a bad choice and a slow taper, supervised by a medical professional, is a better option.
Peter Wendt is a writer and researcher working out of the great state of Texas. He has been writing about this subject for several years, and he finds that a great resource is the website at OriginsRecovery.