Alcohol's Shaky And Weird Side Effects

Alcohol consumption can lead to feelings of shakiness and weirdness due to its impact on the body and nervous system. This phenomenon, known as alcohol shakes or tremors, is often associated with alcohol withdrawal and heavy drinking. The severity and nature of these shakes vary, ranging from slight tremors to painful and uncontrollable shaking. They can be centralized in specific areas, such as the hands, fingers, arms, or legs, or occur throughout the whole body. Alcohol shakes are caused by changes in brain chemistry and the interaction between alcohol and the central nervous system, particularly the neurotransmitter GABA. This results in heightened brain activity and incorrect signals being sent to the body, leading to tremors. Additionally, low blood sugar levels due to alcohol's impact on glucose regulation can contribute to the shaky and weird feeling. While alcohol shakes are common, they can indicate a more serious problem, and persistent or severe cases may require medical attention and treatment for alcohol dependence.

Alcohol withdrawal

The severity and duration of alcohol withdrawal vary depending on factors such as the length of alcohol use, the amount and frequency of consumption, age, weight, gender, family history of addiction, and use of other addictive substances. Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 6 to 24 hours of stopping or reducing alcohol intake and tend to peak within 24 to 72 hours. However, symptoms can last for several weeks or longer, and cravings, shakes, and other withdrawal symptoms may persist even after the body is cleared of alcohol.

If you or someone you know is experiencing alcohol withdrawal, it is important to seek medical help. Detoxification under medical supervision is recommended, as alcohol withdrawal can be uncomfortable and, in severe cases, life-threatening. Treatment options include inpatient or outpatient settings, depending on the severity of symptoms. It is also crucial to address the underlying addiction and begin a treatment program once the body is free of alcohol.

To mitigate the severity of withdrawal symptoms, proper hydration and nutrition are essential. Consuming fluids and nutrient-dense meals helps stabilize blood sugar levels and correct electrolyte imbalances caused by excessive alcohol intake. Additionally, certain vitamins, such as B-complex vitamins, can aid in neurological health and reduce tremors. Enjoyable activities, regular exercise, and healthy sleep patterns can also help reduce stress, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms.

Alcohol poisoning

While it is important to note that shaking after drinking alcohol is a common occurrence, it is not always medically dangerous. Alcohol intoxication can cause hypothermia, making you feel warm on the inside, but your body temperature may actually be cooler, resulting in fever-like chills and shivering. This is due to the effect that alcohol has on the brain, slowing or delaying responses in the nervous system and affecting the area that controls movement and coordination. As the alcohol leaves your system, tremors and shaking can occur.

However, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcohol poisoning, a life-threatening condition. Alcohol poisoning occurs when you drink alcohol faster than your body can process it, resulting in a poisonous level of alcohol in your bloodstream. This can cause your liver to have major issues keeping up and can lead to an overdose, just like with any other illicit drug. Binge drinking, which is consuming a large quantity of alcohol in a short period, is a common cause of alcohol poisoning.

The symptoms of alcohol poisoning include mental confusion, difficulty remaining conscious, vomiting, seizures, trouble breathing, slow heart rate, clammy skin, dulled responses, and extremely low body temperature. These symptoms can lead to permanent brain damage or even death if not treated promptly. If you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Do not drive yourself or the affected person to the hospital, and follow the advice of medical professionals.

To prevent alcohol poisoning, it is essential to avoid binge drinking and high-intensity drinking. For men, this typically means consuming fewer than five drinks, and for women, it means fewer than four drinks in about two hours. Additionally, mixing alcohol with certain medications, such as sleep aids, antihistamines, or opioid pain relievers, can increase the risk of an overdose. It is crucial to be aware of the dangers of mixing alcohol with other substances.

If you are experiencing alcohol-induced shakes, it is recommended to gradually reduce or discontinue alcohol consumption under medical supervision. Proper hydration, nutrition, and supplementation with certain vitamins, such as B-complex vitamins, can help alleviate symptoms associated with alcohol tremors and improve overall well-being. Seeking medical advice and addiction treatment can also be beneficial in managing alcohol consumption and withdrawal symptoms.

Low blood sugar

While alcohol withdrawal and excessive alcohol consumption can cause tremors and shaking, there are other reasons why you might feel shaky and weird. One possibility is low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, which can lead to a range of symptoms, including feeling shaky, weak, and lightheaded. It can also cause a slight trembling of the body, along with a quick onset of a headache, weakness, or tremors in the arms or legs.

Hypoglycemia is defined as blood glucose dropping below 70 mg/dL, according to the American Diabetes Association. When an individual is hypoglycemic, their body releases counter-regulatory hormones such as glucagon, cortisol, and adrenaline to counteract insulin and raise blood sugar levels. This release of adrenaline can lead to an increased heart rate, irregular heartbeat, or heart palpitations. Additionally, low blood sugar levels trigger the body's fight-or-flight response, resulting in a stress response.

The symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary from feeling "hangry" (a combination of hungry and angry) to more severe manifestations. For example, individuals with hypoglycemia may experience a cold sweat without being overheated and may feel pale and clammy even without physical exertion. They may also feel anxious, confused, and have trouble communicating. In some cases, hypoglycemia can lead to fainting spells.

To manage hypoglycemia, it is crucial to address the underlying causes and take preventive measures. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular meal schedule is essential, as skipping meals can contribute to low blood sugar episodes. It is also important to be mindful of any medications or health conditions that may impact blood sugar levels. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help identify specific triggers and develop personalized strategies to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Alcohol addiction

Shaking after drinking alcohol is a common occurrence, especially after prolonged or heavy alcohol use. This is because alcohol has a depressant effect on the body, slowing down brain function and energy levels. As the brain adapts to a regular influx of alcohol, it increases nerve activity to keep the body in a heightened state of alertness. Even when one stops drinking, the brain stays in this state, and withdrawal symptoms occur as it struggles to adapt to the absence of alcohol. These withdrawal symptoms can include tremors, sweating, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and delirium tremens (DTs). DTs are severe and potentially deadly symptoms that may include a racing heart, profuse sweating, confusion, vivid hallucinations, and delusions.

The cycle of addiction involves three stages: incentive salience, negative emotional states, and executive function. These stages are linked to three key regions of the brain: the basal ganglia, the extended amygdala, and the prefrontal cortex. The basal ganglia are involved in habit formation, leading to compulsive alcohol use. The extended amygdala contributes to negative emotions such as anxiety and unease during withdrawal. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for executive function, is compromised in people with alcohol addiction, affecting their ability to organize thoughts, prioritize tasks, manage time, and make decisions.

Treatment for AUD may include medication and behavioral therapy. Studies show that with treatment, most individuals can reduce their alcohol consumption or stop drinking entirely. Detoxification under medical supervision is crucial, as alcohol withdrawal can be uncomfortable and, in severe cases, deadly. Support groups, therapy, and healthy coping mechanisms such as regular exercise, enjoying nature, and engaging in enjoyable activities can also aid in recovery.

Treatment and remedies

If you are experiencing tremors or shakes due to alcohol consumption, it is important to seek professional help. Treatment and remedies for alcohol-induced shakes include:

Detoxification and Medical Supervision

Detoxification under medical supervision is the safest option when experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Medical professionals can determine the appropriate detox and follow-up treatment program. Detoxification involves clearing alcohol from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms. This process can take a few days to months, depending on the individual's liver damage and addiction severity.

Medication

Several medications can help alleviate alcohol withdrawal symptoms, including shakes:

• Baclofen is a skeletal muscle relaxant that curbs nervous system hyperactivity and is effective in treating alcohol shakes.
• Benzodiazepines are a class of medications used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms, including tremors. These medications should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
• Naltrexone prevents the feeling of intoxication produced by alcohol and reduces the severity and frequency of relapse.
• Acamprosate (Campral) helps reduce alcohol cravings.

Nutrition and Hydration

Proper hydration and nutrition can help alleviate alcohol tremors. Consuming fluids, electrolyte-infused water, and nutrient-dense meals can stabilize blood sugar levels and correct electrolyte imbalances caused by excessive alcohol intake.

Vitamins and Supplements

Certain vitamins, especially B-complex vitamins like B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin), and B6 (pyridoxine), play a crucial role in neurological health and may help reduce tremors.

Stress Reduction

Anxiety and stress can exacerbate tremors during alcohol withdrawal. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, light exercise, spending time in nature, and enjoying hobbies can help manage stress levels and reduce the intensity of shakes.

Frequently asked questions