Alcohol addiction is a significant problem in the United States, with millions affected annually. When individuals stop or drastically reduce their alcohol intake after a period of heavy consumption, they can experience a range of withdrawal symptoms. One of the most uncomfortable and common symptoms is stomach pain, often linked to alcohol withdrawal.

In this comprehensive article, we will explore what causes alcohol withdrawal stomach pain, how to manage and treat it, and when it’s essential to seek professional medical help.

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction and experiencing withdrawal symptoms, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Can Alcohol Withdrawal Give You Stomach Pains?

Yes, alcohol withdrawal can cause stomach pain. Stomach pain is a common symptom of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) and is often the body’s response to the sudden cessation of alcohol. This pain may range from mild discomfort to more severe cramping and is caused by a variety of factors that we will discuss below.

What is Alcohol Withdrawal Stomach Pain?

Alcohol withdrawal stomach pain is discomfort or cramps in the abdominal area that arise as the body adjusts to the absence of alcohol. After prolonged alcohol use, the digestive system becomes dependent on the substance to function in certain ways, making the withdrawal process challenging.

Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal Stomach Pain:

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms are mental and physical problems when an individual reduces or stops drinking alcohol. Alcohol has a psychoactive effect on the brain. Frequent substance intake can make an individual dependent on it, making the brain change how it works. Hence, when the individual stops taking it, the brain is forced to work in its absence. Therefore, when an individual dependent on alcohol reduces intake, the body experiences withdrawal symptoms.

The signs and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal vary from person to person. It can be mild or severe. Below are some of the alcohol withdrawal symptoms:

• Dull or sharp stomach cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Gastrointestinal distress
• Difficulty keeping food or liquids down
• Bloating and gas

What Causes Alcohol Withdrawal Stomach Pain?

Several factors contribute to the onset of stomach pain during alcohol withdrawal, including:

• Gastrointestinal Inflammation: Chronic alcohol consumption irritates the stomach lining, leading to inflammation. When alcohol is removed, the damaged tissues may cause persistent pain until they begin to heal.
• Increased Stomach Acid Production: Alcohol stimulates excess stomach acid production. After quitting, the stomach may continue to produce high levels of acid, leading to discomfort, heartburn, and pain.
• Delayed Gastric Emptying: Alcohol slows down the stomach’s ability to empty its contents, causing bloating, gas, and cramping as food remains in the stomach longer than usual.
• Neurological Effects: Alcohol impacts the central nervous system. During withdrawal, the nervous system can become hypersensitive, amplifying pain signals, including those from the stomach.

Acute vs. Chronic Alcohol Withdrawal Stomach Pain

Stomach pain during alcohol withdrawal can be classified as either acute or chronic:

• Acute Alcohol Withdrawal Stomach Pain:
  • Occurs within hours to a few days after the last drink.
  • Sharp, intense cramps and severe nausea.
  • Usually subsides after a few days as the body adjusts.
• Chronic Alcohol Withdrawal Stomach Pain:
  • Lasts for weeks or even months.
  • Persistent dull pain, often related to conditions like gastritis or ulcers caused by long-term alcohol use.
  • Can be a symptom of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS).

Alcohol and Gastritis

Excessive alcohol use can lead to a condition called gastritis, which is the inflammation of the stomach lining. This inflammation can persist even after stopping alcohol consumption, contributing to long-term stomach pain.

Symptoms of Alcohol-Induced Gastritis:

• Bloating
• Ulcers
• Nausea
• Vomiting blood (in severe cases)

How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Stomach Pain Last?

The duration of stomach pain during alcohol withdrawal varies by individual. For some, the pain may last a few days, while others could experience discomfort for weeks. Factors that influence the duration include:

• Length and intensity of alcohol use.
• Presence of underlying gastrointestinal conditions.
• The individual’s overall health and ability to recover.

How To Treat and Manage Alcohol Withdrawal Stomach Pain

Managing stomach pain during alcohol withdrawal involves a combination of medical interventions, home remedies, and lifestyle changes.

Medical Treatment:

• Benzodiazepines: Commonly used to manage severe withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety and stomach pain.
• Antacids: Over-the-counter medications that reduce stomach acid can help relieve gastritis and related pain.
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Medications that reduce acid production, allowing the stomach lining to heal.
• Hydration Therapy: IV fluids may be administered in medical settings to prevent dehydration and ease symptoms.

Home Remedies:

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins from the body and prevents dehydration, which can exacerbate stomach pain.
• Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Choose mild foods that are easy on the stomach, such as bananas, rice, and toast.
• Ginger or Peppermint Tea: These teas can soothe the stomach and reduce nausea.
• Rest: Allowing your body to rest during the withdrawal process helps with recovery.

Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Exercise: Light physical activity, such as walking, can stimulate digestion and reduce stress.
• Stress Reduction: Techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help manage anxiety and reduce withdrawal symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Alcohol Withdrawal Stomach Pain

While stomach pain is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal, certain signs indicate that medical intervention is necessary. Seek immediate help if you experience:

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain.
• Vomiting blood or blood in your stool (possible signs of gastrointestinal bleeding).
• Hallucinations, confusion, or delirium tremens (a dangerous withdrawal complication).
• Inability to keep down food or liquids for an extended period, risking dehydration.

AspenRidge Recovery

Withdrawal symptoms can make recovery from substance addiction uncomfortable and difficult. Fortunately, seeking help through addiction recovery centers can make the journey smooth, comfortable and easy.

The benefits of quitting alcohol are many, and they contribute positively to the overall health of an individual. AspenRidge Recovery center offers treatment for people struggling with alcohol addiction. These people can get help at Colorado alcohol addiction treatment programs. In addition, there are different alcohol treatment options for each individual. For questions, clarifications, and to know more about AspenRidge Recovery, contact us today at 855-281-5588.