Going through alcohol withdrawal is one of the most challenging steps when you want to get sober. As difficult as the symptoms of physical withdrawal are, they do pass, but can take a couple of weeks.
With the help of professionals that specialize in treating alcohol addiction, the process can be much safer, less uncomfortable, and more manageable.
What is post-acute withdrawal syndrome?
After detox, some recovering addicts may find themselves facing an extended period of withdrawal symptoms, which is a condition called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).
The term Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) describes the persistent, ongoing symptoms of withdrawal that some addicts face after going through the initial withdrawal process.
The acute physical symptoms associated with the initial stages of withdrawal (such as nausea, headache and cramping) rarely return, but the features of PAWS can be equally intense, and in some individuals, can increase the chances of relapse.
What are the symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome?
Those suffering from PAWS do not always experience all of the following symptoms simultaneously. Usually these symptoms will come and go, with each episode lasting several days.
PAWS can be a rollercoaster of symptoms for up to a year, and in rare cases, even longer.
Typical symptoms of PAWS are listed below:
- anxiety
- depression
- irritability
- aggression
- increased stress
- exhaustion
- trouble concentrating
- insomnia
- reduced sex drive
- memory issues
- reduced ability to experience pleasure
What causes PAWS?
The most obvious reason is due to extended periods of alcohol abuse.
However, the syndrome and its causes are still not completely understood. Lack of research into PAWS means that many professional organizations do not formally recognize the syndrome, although prolonged symptoms of alcohol withdrawal are simply a reality for some.
Additionally, doctors and psychologists with experience treating PAWS are often in disagreement about the root causes of this prolonged withdrawal syndrome, and occasionally at odds on how to treat it.
However, several commonly-held theories may hint at why certain recovering addicts face PAWS.
- One hypothesis asserts that physical dependence on intoxicating substances leads to changes in brain chemistry that affect the release of neurotransmitters. After ceasing drug or alcohol use, it can take time for the brain to find its original balance, and PAWS symptoms arise during this period.
- Another theory suggests that the body’s need to overcome other physiological adaptations throughout the body (such as in the digestive or cardiovascular systems) can trigger PAWS.
- Lastly, the emotional and psychological stress of breaking the habit of substance abuse alone may be enough to lead to PAWS.
How is post-acute withdrawal syndrome treated?
If you believe you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of PAWS, you do have options to help you deal with the syndrome.
Most of the symptoms of the syndrome are emotional or psychological, and seeking support from a professional therapist or support group can be beneficial.
Lastly, there are medications available to help with PAWS symptoms. Keep in mind that working with addiction treatment professionals at the beginning of your recovery process will lessen the chances that you’ll experience PAWS.