Serenity Lane Warns of Seizures from Alcoholism

In a recent article, Serenity Lane, a rehabilitation facility in Portland, Oregon, spoke out about the correlation between seizures and alcoholism. They wanted to highlight both the potential risk for those with seizure disorders and for those with a history of long-term alcohol use. As the oldest non-profit rehab in the area, they utilize their expertise to provide educational articles to the community as a whole. With nearly 45,000 people in Oregon reporting active epilepsy, alongside the common use of alcohol in the state, they utilized this recent article to shed better light on the connection between the two.

They start off the article by talking about how alcohol use should be addressed for those who have a history of seizures. “For those who take medication for seizures or epilepsy, it’s important to know that alcohol can interact with the way your medication works. You should reach out to your doctor or pharmacist if you don’t know if you can drink on your current medication. Regardless of the answer, if you do drink while on your medication it’s important to keep taking it like normal in order not to increase your chances of having a seizure.”

Serenity Lane goes on to better explain what exactly the link between alcohol use and seizures is. “In most cases, small amounts of alcohol will not impact the medication in your system,” they explain. “Seizures in relation to alcohol consumption stem primarily from overdoses or withdrawals. For those who regularly consume alcohol, the body can become used to having it in its system, leading to withdrawal when you go without it. During the first 72 hours of withdrawal, you’re at risk of experiencing seizures.”

Those who have seizure disorders are at a higher risk of experiencing seizures due to binge drinking than those who don’t. Additionally, long-term alcohol use disorders can create a risk for the person to develop epilepsy. “Studies show that the risk of developing epilepsy is higher in those who regularly drink 4-8 drinks daily compared to those who don’t,” the article elaborates.

The primary reason behind seizures caused by alcohol use comes from how alcohol impacts the body. “Alcohol is a depressant. It primarily affects the central nervous system. Despite this, more than just your nervous system can become altered by alcohol use.”

Finally, the article explains the steps a person can take to address their alcohol use disorder safely. “Detoxing from alcohol can start as soon as 6 hours after the last drink is consumed. This process can come with some annoying and even dangerous symptoms. Going through detox with medical staff helping you along the way can help lessen and even negate some symptoms, while also ensuring your health and well-being along the way.” A medical detox can be a key component in setting up for successful long-term recovery.

Serenity Lane has been helping people overcome substance and alcohol use disorders since 1973. All of the programs they offer have been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). They have introduced many new programs in Oregon, such as residential step-down and outpatient programs that integrate residential and outpatient services. They have also been the provider of the only Addiction Counselor Training Program in Oregon. Some of their graduates are now offering their services through several treatment programs throughout the country.

People who would like to know more about the addiction treatment services available through Serenity Lane of Portland, Oregon can visit their website or contact them by telephone or email. Serenity Lane has live people ready to help place patients from 8:00 am - 7:30 pm Monday through Friday, and 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Saturday and Sunday.