Shaken and stirred
Question
I have been drinking heavily for some months now. I usually drink over half a bottle of vodka a night. The thing is, I wanted to cut down but I've been off the booze for a week and my hands are shaking badly. Do I need medication?
Answer
Well done, it can take a lot of strength to stop drinking for any period of time, especially when it has become part of your daily routine.
It sounds like you're experiencing Delirium Tremens, most commonly known as the DTs. Basically this is caused by your body withdrawing from the alcohol and this can result in your hands shaking. This will go away once your body has adjusted to not having alcohol in the system. Stick with it - you are definitely doing the right thing by cutting down on booze.
The intensity of the DTs varies from person to person. Some people just get the shakes and some people have more severe symptoms, including hallucinations. This is because each person's body is affected differently by the amount of alcohol they drink.
The best thing for you to do is to see your local doctor (GP) about whether or not you will need medication. Some people do and some don't so your doctor will be able to determine that based on your symptoms. You can also get advice over the phone or online with NHS Direct on 0845 46 47. You might also want to consider getting in touch with some alcohol support organisations. You will have access to counselling and health care through these organisations, who offer their services confidentially and free of charge.
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Question answered by Addaction
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