How do I cope with Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome PAWS?

The drug classes discussed above have different long-term effects on the brain, and the symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome will be different depending on which substance, or combination of substances, was used. History of drug use is the best-known risk factor for post-acute withdrawal syndrome. Use of sedatives like barbiturates and benzodiazepines can also produce withdrawal responses that resemble alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

How long do PAWS symptoms usually last?

The symptoms are usually transient in nature so there is frequent relief, and some symptoms are very mild. Many people report freedom from PAWS symptoms in as little as a few weeks, while others have experienced lingering effects for years. These changes can take months or even years to completely reverse themselves and for opiate signaling to return to normal levels. Some researchers have been experimenting with indirectly increasing opiate signaling in patients recovering from addiction with low-dose naloxone (Narcan) to alleviate PAWS symptoms.

How Is Protracted Withdrawal Treated?

Many people seek help through a medically supervised detox or by attempting to quit alone. Acute withdrawal can produce more dangerous health consequences—even life-threatening complications—if detox isn’t completed in a supervised https://sober-house.org/1-groups-and-substance-abuse-treatment-substance/ setting. Due to the wide range of acute withdrawal symptoms that may occur, and the various addictive substances that may be used, it is always advised to seek medical assistance rather than quitting on your own.

What Does PAWS Feel Like?

1. However, after stopping antidepressants after using them for a long time, some people do experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms.
2. Of all substances, PAWS from abstaining from alcohol has drawn the most scientific attention.
3. Although post-acute withdrawal syndrome can be a very challenging process while the brain and body begin to heal and reorient itself to life without the use of alcohol or other drugs, help is available.
4. The best PAWS management plan includes continued individual and group therapy with a trusted professional, development and utilization of a recovery support network, and constant re-evaluations of behavior and thoughts.

Fewer people, however, are familiar with post-acute withdrawal syndrome — the usually long-lasting effects people feel when recovering from addiction. This article will explore what post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is, what signs and symptoms to look out for, and how to manage and recover from this challenging aspect of addiction recovery. Post-acute withdrawal is a consequence of the significant changes to brain anatomy and chemistry that take place during active addiction.

Benzodiazepine addicts experience PAWS symptoms for years after stopping the substance. Naltrexone is what’s known as an opioid antagonist (similar to the naloxone in Suboxone). Naltrexone binds to the opioid receptors and acts like a blockade, preventing other opioids from binding to those same receptors. This means that even if you relapse and use an opioid, you won’t get high (but you can overdose).

The best PAWS management plan includes continued individual and group therapy with a trusted professional, development and utilization of a recovery support network, and constant re-evaluations of behavior and thoughts. PAWS symptoms most commonly occur after a withdrawal period from alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, but have also been known to surface after quitting other psychoactive substances. Based on the amount of alcohol you used, PAWS can last for weeks to months. Longer and heavier use of alcohol can cause more severe PAWS symptoms that can last even longer. It may seem like you’re on a rollercoaster when you stop using substances. Suddenly stopping or drastically reducing your intake of alcohol or drugs can be very challenging, because your mind and body are learning to adjust to living without something you were dependent on for a long time.

Withdrawal can lead to physical discomfort as well as life-threatening health conditions. But remember, you were strong before your addiction and can triumph in your recovery. Withdrawal symptoms can be daunting, uncomfortable, and in some cases dangerous. If you or a loved one is experiencing withdrawal symptoms it is important that you seek medical treatment. Our healthcare team of medical professionals will support you through your withdrawal process safely with a treatment plan that is unique to you.

That’s why we develop tailored medical detox and recovery plans for everyone who enters our door. We offer medically supervised detox in a safe and comfortable environment, with medication-assisted treatment (MAT) provided to reduce severe withdrawal symptoms and help manage cravings after detox. We also offer a comprehensive inpatient https://sober-home.org/how-to-tell-when-alcohol-is-affecting-your/ addiction treatment program, with 24-hour care provided in a gorgeous setting and onsite therapy and other treatments available. If inpatient treatment isn’t for you, take advantage of our outpatient program, flexible treatment options designed for people who want to keep working or managing their responsibilities during recovery.

This is due to the fact that your brain became reliant on the drug for its serotonin supply and now needs to work harder to manufacture that particular neurotransmitter. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation, help reduce anxiety, tension, and overwhelming thoughts or emotions. https://rehabliving.net/4-surprising-health-effects-of-long-term-kratom/ If a loved one is experiencing PAWS, you can show support by reminding them that you’re there for them and encouraging them to reach out to you for help. In other words, PAWS could occur because your brain’s chemicals are beginning to regulate and return to their earlier state.

PAWS symptoms can be uncomfortable and distressing, and they can be risk factors for relapse. Having a strong self-care routine, working with medical professionals, and having support from people who understand can help. PAWS is a dangerous withdrawal period with a high potential to cause relapse. If you experience PAWS, contact medical professionals or addiction specialists to help manage your symptoms. Stopping alcohol use cold turkey or attempting to recover from drug addiction is not recommended. Because of the severity of the symptoms, people often feel the need to drink or use drugs to make them go away.