Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms usually occur within 8 hours after the last drink, but can occur days later. Symptoms usually peak on the 1st through 3rd day but may go on for weeks. The level of alcohol addiction will affect withdrawal symptoms that can range from mild to life-threatening. Because of the patient’s danger, detox must be supervised by medical staff.

What happens in the body when you stop drinking alcohol?

When alcohol consumption ceases, the brain and central nervous system, previously suppressed by alcohol’s depressant effects, experience a rebound, leading to a range of withdrawal symptoms. 

These symptoms progress through three phases:

Phase 1 (8+ hours after the last drink):

• Anxiety, nervousness, depression  
• Fatigue, irritability, jumpiness, shakiness  
• Mood swings, insomnia, nightmares  
• Unclear thinking, clammy skin, dilated pupils  
• Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain

Phase 2 (1-3 days after the last drink):

• High blood pressure, increased body temperature  
• Unusual heart rate, sweating  
• Confusion

Phase 3 (72+ hours after the last drink):

• Hallucinations, fever, seizures  
• Severe confusion, agitation

Symptoms generally decrease within 5-7 days, but the timeline and severity depend on individual factors, including:

• Length and intensity of alcohol use  
• Medical history and co-occurring mental health disorders  
• Family history of addiction  
• Childhood trauma and stress levels  
• Use of other recreational drugs, which can exacerbate withdrawal risks

Alcohol detox should be tailored to each individual, with a customized plan that accounts for these factors to ensure safety and effectiveness.

What is the most serious withdrawal symptom associated with alcoholism?

The most serious form of alcohol withdrawal is delirium tremens (DTs), which occurs in 3-5% of alcohol withdrawal, and it can be fatal without treatment.

DTs may not start for a few days after alcohol leaves the system, and it can occur fast. It is the main reason that alcohol detox should be closely monitored by a medical professional who can continually check vital symptoms and ensure the individual’s safety during detox.

Stopping cold turkey for the alcoholic is dangerous. Alcohol withdrawal can be fatal, as the brain and central nervous system experience a rebound after being suppressed by alcohol repetitively for an extended period of time. The sudden removal of the central nervous system depressant can be life-threatening.

Binge Drinking vs. Alcoholism Withdrawal

While both binge drinking and alcoholism can lead to withdrawal symptoms, the severity and risks differ significantly due to the patterns of alcohol use.

Binge Drinking Withdrawal

Binge drinking is defined as consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period (e.g., 5+ drinks for men or 4+ drinks for women in about 2 hours). Occasional binge drinkers may experience mild withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability, headaches, or nausea, within 8-12 hours of stopping. These symptoms are typically short-lived (1-2 days) and less severe, as binge drinking doesn’t usually involve chronic, daily dependence. However, frequent binge drinking can increase tolerance and lead to dependence over time, heightening withdrawal risks.

Alcoholism Withdrawal

Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, involves chronic, heavy drinking over an extended period, leading to physical and psychological dependence. Withdrawal from alcoholism is more severe and prolonged, progressing through the three phases described above, including life-threatening symptoms like seizures and delirium tremens. The brain and nervous system, long suppressed by consistent alcohol use, experience a more intense rebound, requiring medical supervision to manage symptoms safely.

If you’re unsure whether you or a loved one is experiencing binge drinking or alcoholism withdrawal, a medical assessment is essential to determine the appropriate level of care.

Take our “Am I an Alcoholic?” assessment by clicking here.

Risks of Alcohol Withdrawal Without Professional Supervision

Attempting alcohol withdrawal without medical oversight, often referred to as “detoxing at home” or “going cold turkey,” poses significant health risks, particularly for individuals with moderate to severe alcohol dependence. 

The dangers include:

• Delirium Tremens (DTs)
• Seizures
• Cardiovascular Complications
• Severe Dehydration
• Worsening Mental Health
• Relapse Risk

Professional detox programs mitigate these risks by providing:  

• Continuous assessment of vital signs to detect and treat complications

• Medications such as benzodiazepines or anticonvulsants to manage seizures, anxiety, and DTs

• IV fluids and nutritional guidance to hydrate and stabilize the body

• Counseling to address emotional distress and co-occurring disorders

Attempting detox without supervision is not only less effective, but it can also put your life or your loved one’s at risk. A medically supervised detox ensures safety and sets the stage for successful treatment.

How to Help Someone Who Is an Alcoholic and Needs Alcohol Detox

It can prove challenging to support your loved one who may need treatment for alcoholism, especially if they are in denial or are resistant to it.

Practical steps for encouraging your loved one toward safe, professional detox and recovery include:

• Educating yourself about alcoholism and withdrawal
• Approaching them with empathy and non-judgment
• Encouraging professional consultation
• Highlight the benefits of medically supervised detox
• Explore professional intervention services
• Set boundaries and encourage accountability for recovery
• Connect them to recovery resources

When does alcohol leave your system?

Alcohol leaves your system at different rates, depending on various factors, including how much you drank, body weight, metabolism, gender, age, and your general health. The average rate at which the liver metabolizes alcohol is about one standard drink per hour.

Can damage from alcohol be reversed?

Although chronic alcohol use can cause significant damage to you, the degree of harm depends on the organ, duration, and severity of drinking, and your general health. Abstinence and proper treatment can help improve or partially reverse damage, but some damage might be permanent.

Safe Alcohol Detox at Into Action Recovery

Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous, but you don’t have to face it alone. 

Our on-site medical detox program provides safe, compassionate care to manage withdrawal symptoms and address co-occurring mental health disorders. 

With 24/7 medical supervision, personalized treatment plans, and evidence-based therapies, we guide you through detox and into your next phase of recovery. 

Whether you’re struggling with binge drinking or chronic alcoholism, our team is here to help you reclaim your health and build a foundation for lasting sobriety.