Cold Turkey - So Far...

[Guest]

Hey there everyone I'm Jamwa, a 26 y.o female living in Melbourne Australia!

I have been an extremely heavy drinker for the past four years of my life. It all started out as fun as most things do until I found myself drinking a whole bottle of bourbon a day!!
I manage to end up in the emergency department of my local hospital on average once a month. My symptoms are always explained as alcoholic gastritis.
Last Wednesday the Dr. told me that I had ruined my stomach lining and I was just doing more damage to my body.

This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do in my life, I feel so ashamed of myself!!

My last drink was on Wednesday at 7pm, it is now 11pm Sunday so I have gone 100 hours, just over 4 days without alcohol. *trust me I am counting the hours*

My headaches are shocking, my mouth is dry and my appetite is erratic. I'm not tired and fricking hell I feel so depressed.

Has anyone else out there done the cold turkey thing? Or anyone with any advice please help, it would be greatly appreciated

[Guest]

Cold Turkey - So Far...

Jamwa,
Congrats on 4 days. That is a big step. I would recommend downloading the MWO book. There are many supplements recommended in this program that will help replenish many of the nutrients your body is lacking from drinking. There are also some to help with cravings and to help with depression. It is a great program and it sounds like you are ready to make a change, this program has great tools to help!

Welcome,
Marcie

[Guest]

Cold Turkey - So Far...

Welcome, Jamwa!
I'm so sorry you are having to experience all those nasty side effects of the "cold turkey", because it sounds like your determination to quit the drinking is quite commendable! Marcie is right. If you can download the book, you will find many helpful tips for curbing the cravings and some supplements to help. You can also find them on this website without having to spend a dime, but the book is truly EXTREMELY helpful and inspiring.
Go under "home", look to the left, and there are many subheadings for important program updates. Perhaps even your doctor can prescribe or recommend something for your tummy troubles?? I can relate:x .
Hang in there. We are here. Lean on this site for support. Lean on your medical community for your health.
You are making a wonderful change!! Congratulations on a BIG first step!!
Becca

[Guest]

Cold Turkey - So Far...

Hey Jamwa, Welcome aboard. Yeah, cold turkey does suck! You should be starting to feel better any day now though. It does take a while. If you feel up to it, a nice warm bath, or shower should help, with a loofa, gently if you have one... Apparently, your skin is one of your largest cleansing organs that your body has for removing toxins(I guess thats why we sweat stuff out) :rolleyes
Do you have any herb tea? maybe something to help you relax? I know I get way anxious when detoxing. Hard to sit still, A good book , or movie, or just keep posting & reading , we'll keep you occupied! Have you checked out the "Laughing out Loud Post?" It's down below the Just starting out & General Diss. on the main page. Good luck & congratulations on 4 days!! Hugs, Judie

[Guest]

Cold Turkey - So Far...

Jamwa,

That's terrific! You are obviously very determined. We are all pulling for you here. For the gastritis, Nexium really works but you need RX from your doc. It also repairs damage.

Good luck! We are very proud of you.

Ivy

[Guest]

Cold Turkey - So Far...

Good luck, Jamwa, if you have come this far already, you are through with the worst! It sounds like a b*tch! Calming tea is a good idea, and also lots of water to rehydrate yourself. I sure can believe you are counting the hours!

If you enjoy reading, a good book can help, and also, if your doctor is willing, s/he can prescribe some mild anti-anxiety medication to help take the edge off your withdrawal so that you can sleep and relax through some of it.

You can check out one of the topics here, "What we are reading" and if you can get yourself to a bookstore, there are lots of books on recovery that are very compelling. They can really motivate you a great deal.

Anyway, all the advice from others is sound, and I wish you the best as you start your journey. Keep on trying and check in often. MWO is a great source of support and companionship on this journey!

Kathy

[Guest]

Cold Turkey - So Far...

Hi Jamwa,

Welcome. (I'm in Central Vic). I know this is hard but you're doing well. Come into Chat sometime - it really helps to pass the time and keep your mind off the grog. And when you're counting hours, even half an hour is a good thing!

Even with the time difference (when most of our US mates are asleep) there's usually someone rattling around.

Tawny

[Guest]

Cold Turkey - So Far...

Hi Jamwa,

Welcome to MWO! I just wanted to add words of support to you as you continue on your journey. Everyone above has offered sound and sage advice, I do hope it is helping! I am pulling for ya! I gotta tell ya, I love your spirit! All you are doing to kick the living hell out of this, and you still end your message with a smile! Keep pushing on!!

Donna

[Guest]

Cold Turkey - So Far...

Way to go Jamwa - I have also just started but using the program - mostly. I am just about to ask for some advice on another thread so maybe the answers there can help you too!