What is post-acute withdrawal syndrome?
Following medically supervised detox from highly addictive substances, most people experience a short phase of physical discomfort, otherwise known as acute withdrawal. Acute withdrawal can produce more dangerous health consequences—even life-threatening complications if detox isn’t done in a supervised setting. But there’s more to drug and alcohol withdrawal than physical symptoms of discomfort. While acute withdrawal refers primarily to the body’s process of healing, a second phase of withdrawal symptoms, known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome, or PAWS. Post-Acute Withdrawal, which occurs after acute withdrawal is over and may last up to two years. Post-acute withdrawal encompasses physical and psychological symptoms and may be very difficult to overcome without preparation and professional support. Post-acute withdrawal symptoms often peak at around six months and can be severe enough to derail the recovery process.
Symptoms of PAWS:
- Sudden, intense mood swings
- Depression and anxiety
- Inability to think clearly or concentrate
- Variable energy levels
- Inability to experience pleasure (anhedonia)
- Sleep disturbances or insomnia
- Acute sensitivity to stress
- Problems with physical coordination
- Obsessive thoughts
What Causes PAWS?
The widely agreed-upon cause of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) is related to physiological changes that occur within the brain of someone who is addicted to a substance.
Drug addiction creates changes in available neurotransmitters, which causes the brain to alter itself to accommodate these changes. When someone stops taking an addictive drug, available neurotransmitters change again and can create excitability.
When someone uses a substance for a considerable amount of time, their brain loses some of its ability to deal with stress. Experiences during withdrawal also affect the brain’s capacity for stress.
Scientists believe that these physical changes are responsible for the recurring symptoms associated with PAWS. They also believe that these changes are what cause increased tolerance during active substance abuse.
How Long Does Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome Last?
The symptoms of PAWS can last three months or two years. It depends on the type of substance abused, the length of time it was abused, and the health of the person.
In general, PAWS lasts longer for someone who:
1. Spent several years using drugs.
2. Used drugs by snorting or injecting them.
3. Is older.
4. Has kidney or liver problems.
How to deal with PAWS
PAWS tends to stick around for a while, and can even exist up to 2 years into the recovery process. These troublesome symptoms can create feelings of hopelessness in someone recovering from substance abuse and may cause them to believe that their only way out is to relapse.
It is imperative to recognize PAWS symptoms and understand that they do eventually go away. Additionally, there are vital strategies that someone in recovery should implement to reduce the chance of relapse.
- Have a Good Support System
- Avoid High-Risk Situations
- Coping Skills
- Treatment
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or in recovery Behavioral Crossroads Recovery can help.
Admissions: 609-645-2500 (Option 2)
