• March 29, 2022
• Alcohol
• Madison
• 0 Comments

Addictions are often hard to reduce and harder to withdraw. Once you decide to leave any drug or alcohol addiction behind, your body requires time to adapt to the change. This process of acceptance by the body tends to be a strenuous one. 

Long-term alcohol addiction recovery can be extremely challenging at times. While you make efforts for your body to resist the urge, there is a constant pull towards returning to it. Chest pain and alcohol withdrawal often come coupled, along with various other symptoms.

While chest pain is a common complaint amongst individuals who wish to get over their addictions, it is fairly serious. Tightness in your chest can be a symptom of a grave heart disease that must be medically diagnosed as early as possible. 

Significantly decreasing your alcohol consumption after binge drinking has an intense impact on your health. From minor body tremors to acute seizures, also called delirium tremens, the withdrawal phase comes with multiple problems. 

Studies also indicate a mortality rate close to 1 to 5% for people undergoing delirium tremens. This is an indicator of how important it is to deal with your alcohol withdrawal in the most efficient way. 

Causes Behind Chest Pain and Alcohol Withdrawal

In order to get the most suitable treatment for your addiction, it is vital to first discover the causes of your chest pain. Let’s dive in!

Increased Heart Rate

Medically known as Tachycardia, a fast heart rate is often a symptom of alcohol withdrawal. Alcohol acts as a significant depressant for the entire nervous system. Once the body gets dependent on alcohol for a long time, it often acts up when it is no longer available. 

This reaction of the central nervous system results in increased activity, causing the heart rate to rise above the normal level. Chest pain and alcohol withdrawal is a complex phenomenon and can be caused due to this erratic behavior. 

The gamma-Aminobutyric acid or GABA chemical helps calm the brain while glutamate is responsible for exciting your senses. The reasoning for prolonged alcohol consumption, the effect of gamma-Aminobutyric acid in your body is enhanced. This makes the brain susceptible to glutamate and causes irregular heartbeat.

Some of the most prominent signs of Tachycardia include 

• Palpitations
• Dizziness
• Chest pain
• Lightheadedness. 

Artery Spasms

Arteries play an integral role in supplying oxygenated blood to all parts of your body. Spasms obstruct this flow and can be highly dangerous at times. In such a condition, the blood vessel either narrows or constricts, causing a challenge for the blood to pass. 

Artery spasms are commonly associated with chest pain and alcohol withdrawal. It is one of the most noted side effects of being a heavy drinker. Spams tend to come up during the withdrawal phase and can result in severe chest pains. 

While spasms might not have evident symptoms at times, some of the signs include 

• Tightness in the chest
• Pain in the neck area
• Discomfort in the chest and shoulders

Additionally, restricted arteries or spasms also increase the risk of having a heart attack. Thus, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional as early as possible in such a scenario. 

Heart Muscle Injury

Long-term exposure to the toxicity of alcohol can often lead to serious injuries to one’s heart muscles. Medically termed as Cardiomyopathy, this condition is common in heavy drinkers that have a history of alcohol and/or drug abuse. 

While this heart disease is reversible if your drinking is stopped timely, continuing the consumption can deteriorate your health. Being a progressive condition, all of its risks can worsen with time. 

Failing to get professional healthcare for Cardiomyopathy can also lead to heart attack and failure. In some cases, the condition can be fatal as well. 

If you feel significant 

• Shortness of breath
• Extreme fatigue
• Swelling 
• Coughing
• Palpitations

This is an indication to get tested for any possible muscle injuries around the heart.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment with Drug Rehab Centers

Alcohol withdrawal and detoxification can help addicts recover from substance abuse. Addicts need immense support and guidance to get out of this loop and lead a healthy lifestyle. Chest pain and alcohol withdrawal are often difficult to deal with and you must reach out for professional healthcare assistance. 

The dedicated teams at Drug Rehab Centers hold rich experience in providing rehab facilities and programs to help people cope with the addiction. Our professionals offer top-notch assistance and help you step towards sober living. 

Connect with us today at 866.559.4256 to explore your options!