Hiker's unexplained death exposes deadly alcohol withdrawal risk many don't recognize

When hiker Joanna Ruth Shields, 37, was found dead near Sykes Hot Springs in California’s Ventana Wilderness, initial speculation pointed to foul play, according to a press release from the Monterey County Sheriff's Office.However, official coroner's reports revealed her cause of death to be probable alcohol withdrawal seizures brought on by chronic alcohol use disorder.Friends who were hiking with Shields said she had gone to the river that morning.A short time later, one of them found her unresponsive in the water, according to reports.IS DRINKING EVERY DAY ALCOHOLISM? EXPERTS EXPLAIN WHERE CULTURE AND ADDICTION COLLIDE"This is a probable seizure that occurred as a result of chronic alcohol use disorder, but there was nothing that stood out that indicated any type of criminal activity," Andres Rosas, commander and the primary public information officer for the Monterey County Sheriff's Office, told KSBW 8.Given the results of the investigation and forensic examination, no further investigation is taking place.The recent death of a Big Sur hiker was ruled a probable case of fatal alcohol withdrawal seizures, exposing a dangerous and often hidden medical crisis.

(iStock)The incident highlights a little-known danger of severe alcohol dependence, as suddenly stopping alcohol can trigger life-threatening neurological events.Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system.When someone drinks heavily over a prolonged period, the brain adapts by ramping up chemical signals to keep bodily systems functioning, according to experts.CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIESWhen alcohol is abruptly stopped, that blocker on the central nervous system is removed.

The brain then enters a state of dangerous overexcitation, leading to severe hyperarousal.Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within six to 24 hours after the last drink, with the risk of seizures peaking between 24 and 48 hours.Alcohol withdrawal can quickly progress from tremors, sweating and anxiety to severe...