Can my mother quit alcohol cold turkey or does she need medical assistance?
My mother 63F 167cm 68kg is a high functioning alcoholic and has been as long as I remember. She drinks a bottle of wine each night approximately 8 standard drinks. On weekends or special occasions she will drink a lot more, but at least a bottle of wine every single evening of her life . If I can get her to stop drinking, can she go cold turkey herself or would that be too dangerous - does she need medical supervision. I don’t know if she would ever agree to rehab or assistance from doctors. I’m very worried that her body can’t keep handling this alcohol at her age. I notice she always has slow healing bites, cuts and scratches all over her lower legs which I assume is poor wound healing from alcoholism.
Answers (1)
3/14/2025, 5:08:21 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable that you’re concerned about your mother’s alcohol consumption and her health. Quitting alcohol, especially after long-term use, should be approached with caution.
From what you described, your mother has been consuming a significant amount of alcohol daily, which can lead to physical dependence. Stopping alcohol abruptly, often referred to as "going cold turkey," can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening due to withdrawal symptoms, which in some cases can be severe.
Here's what you should consider:
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Withdrawal Symptoms: Alcohol withdrawal can range from mild symptoms like anxiety and tremors to severe symptoms such as seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (DTs). The risk of severe withdrawal increases with the duration and amount of alcohol consumed.
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Medical Supervision: It is highly recommended that your mother seeks medical assistance if she decides to quit drinking. Medical professionals can assess her health, provide support, monitor withdrawal symptoms, and offer medications that can help ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
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Detox Programs: In some cases, medical detox programs, either inpatient or outpatient, may be appropriate. These programs provide monitored withdrawal and support in a safe environment.
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Individual Support: If she is resistant to rehab or medical assistance, starting with a healthcare provider, therapist, or support group (like AA) may be beneficial. Sometimes taking smaller steps can lead to a willingness to seek further help.
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Additional Health Concerns: The slow healing of wounds and potential nutritional deficiencies associated with long-term alcohol use should also be addressed with a healthcare professional.
It's important to approach the subject gently and supportively, given how difficult this can be for her. Encouraging her to speak with a doctor about her alcohol use and overall health is a vital step. If possible, you could even offer to accompany her to a medical appointment for support.
Safety and health should always be the priority, and professional guidance is crucial in these situations.