How to Tell the Difference Between a Cold and Withdrawal

Published On: January 28, 2025|Categories: Addiction|631 words|3.2 min read|
Sick man on sofa at home and blowing nose.

It can be challenging to distinguish between someone experiencing a common cold and someone going through withdrawal from drugs or alcohol. While the symptoms may overlap, the causes and implications are vastly different. Understanding the differences is crucial for providing the right support and care. Here’s how you can identify key indicators to determine whether someone is sick with a cold or experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Common Symptoms of a Cold

A cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory system. Symptoms typically develop gradually and may include:

  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Sneezing
  • Sore throat
  • Coughing
  • Mild fever
  • Fatigue
  • Body aches

Symptoms usually last 7-10 days.

Cold symptoms are rarely severe and often improve with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies.

Common Symptoms of Withdrawal

Withdrawal occurs when someone who is dependent on drugs or alcohol abruptly reduces or stops using the substance. Symptoms vary depending on the substance but can include:

  • Excessive sweating
  • Shaking or tremors
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Severe fatigue
  • Anxiety or irritability
  • Insomnia
  • Dilated pupils
  • Intense cravings
  • Seizures or hallucinations (in severe cases)

Withdrawal Symptoms by Substance

Different substances cause different withdrawal experiences. Here’s what to expect:

Alcohol

Symptoms can range from mild (tremors, anxiety, sweating) to severe (hallucinations, seizures, delirium tremens).

Withdrawal typically begins 6-24 hours after the last drink and can last several days to a week.

Opioids (e.g., heroin, prescription painkillers)

Symptoms include severe muscle aches, sweating, runny nose, nausea, diarrhea, and intense cravings.

Withdrawal begins within 12 hours of the last dose and peaks within 1-3 days, with symptoms lasting up to a week or more.

Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium)

Symptoms include severe anxiety, insomnia, irritability, tremors, and seizures.

Withdrawal can be life-threatening and requires medical supervision. Symptoms may last weeks or even months.

Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine)

Symptoms include extreme fatigue, depression, irritability, and sleep disturbances.

Withdrawal begins within hours of the last use and can last several days to weeks.

Nicotine

Symptoms include irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, increased appetite, and cravings.

Withdrawal typically peaks within the first few days and subsides over a few weeks.

Marijuana

Symptoms include irritability, sleep difficulties, loss of appetite, and mood swings.

Withdrawal symptoms typically last about 1-2 weeks.

Key Differences to Consider

1. Onset and Duration:

    Cold symptoms develop gradually, while withdrawal symptoms often appear suddenly after stopping substance use.

    2. Sweating and Tremors:

    Sweating and tremors are common in withdrawal but rare in a cold.

    3. Behavioral Changes:

    Withdrawal often includes anxiety, irritability, and intense cravings, which are not associated with a cold.

    4. Severe Symptoms:

    Symptoms like seizures, hallucinations, or severe dehydration point to withdrawal, not a cold.

    5. Substance History:

    If the person has a known history of substance use, withdrawal is a likely cause.

    What to Do Next

    If you suspect someone is experiencing withdrawal, it’s important to take action. Withdrawal can be dangerous and requires medical supervision, particularly for substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids. Here are steps you can take:

    • Seek Medical Help: Contact a healthcare professional or addiction specialist immediately.
    • Encourage Hydration: Help the person stay hydrated to manage symptoms.
    • Monitor Symptoms: Watch for severe signs such as seizures or hallucinations and seek emergency care if they occur.
    • Avoid Judgment: Approach the situation with compassion and understanding.

    How Silver Ridge Recovery Can Help

    At Silver Ridge Recovery, we provide comprehensive care for individuals struggling with addiction and withdrawal. Our medical detox programs are designed to help individuals safely navigate withdrawal symptoms under professional supervision. We also offer personalized treatment plans to address the root causes of addiction and support long-term recovery.

    If you’re concerned about a loved one’s health and suspect withdrawal may be the issue, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help.

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