Deadly risk: Hidden dangers of quitting alcohol cold turkey

While developing alcohol dependence may seem gradual and harmless, quitting is often far more difficult than many people imagine.

What begins as occasional drinking can slowly turn into a dependency, leaving individuals unable to function without alcohol. Once physical dependence develops, stopping suddenly can be dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening.

Evans knows this reality all too well. For seven years, he struggled with alcoholism before deciding to quit. Like many people, he assumed giving up alcohol would be straightforward. Instead, he found himself facing a serious medical emergency.

Sleeping late was unlike Evans. Concerned, his younger brother went to check on him and found him unconscious on his bed. He was unresponsive and appeared critically ill. Fearing he had poisoned himself, family members rushed him to a nearby health facility.

Doctors soon established the cause of his condition. Evans was suffering from Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS), a condition that develops when a person who has been drinking heavily suddenly stops or reduces alcohol intake. He had been sober for two days.

Fortunately, medical staff intervened promptly. After treatment and close monitoring, Evans regained consciousness about 24 hours later. Had his family delayed seeking help, the outcome could have been fatal.

Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome can cause shaking, sweating, anxiety, nausea, insomnia and seizures. In severe cases, individuals may develop delirium tremens, a life-threatening condition characterised by confusion, hallucinations, fever, rapid heartbeat and dangerously high blood pressure.

Alcohol alters brain chemistry over time. When alcohol is abruptly removed, the brain struggles to readjust, resulting in withdrawal symptoms that can range from mild discomfort to severe medical complications.

Several factors increase the risk of alcohol dependence. A family history of alcoholism may increase vulnerability. Alcohol stimulates dopamine, the brain chemical associated with pleasure and reward, making repeated use more appealing.

People experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges may also turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism.

Many people drink to escape life’s challenges without realising the long-term consequences. It weakens the immune system, increases cancer risk, contributes to brittle bones and accelerates ageing.

The brain is equally affected, leading to memory loss, impaired judgment and reduced cognitive function.

The social consequences can be equally devastating. Alcohol misuse is linked to depression, anxiety, aggression, poor decision-making, family breakdown, domestic violence, financial difficulties, job loss and encounters with the law.

For those wishing to quit, help is available. The first step is acknowledging that drinking has become a problem. A healthcare professional can then assess the individual’s condition and determine whether detoxification should occur at home, in a hospital or within a rehabilitation centre.

The road to sobriety may be challenging, but with proper support and medical guidance, recovery is achievable and can save lives.

Dr Kerubo is the Resident Medical Officer at Nyamira County Referral Hospital.