What Is Alcohol Withdrawal?
lcohol withdrawal occurs when a person who has developed physical dependence on alcohol suddenly reduces or stops drinking. The symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some people may experience anxiety, sweating, shaking or nausea, while severe withdrawal can involve seizures, hallucinations, severe confusion or delirium tremens (DTs). Because severe alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening, people who may be physically dependent on alcohol should seek medical advice before stopping suddenly. Illustration: Alcohol withdrawal
Symptoms Can Include
Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline
- Hours 6 - 12
Early symptoms may begin, including anxiety, tremors, sweating, nausea, headache, restlessness and difficulty sleeping.
- Hours 12 - 24
Symptoms may become more noticeable. Some people may experience increased heart rate, worsening tremors or changes in perception.
- Hours 12 - 48
Withdrawal seizures can occur during this period. Some people may also experience hallucinations or significant agitation. Medical assessment is important when serious symptoms develop.
- Hours 24 - 72
Symptoms can become more severe in people with significant dependence. Severe confusion, agitation, hallucinations, fever and other serious symptoms may occur.
- Hours 24 After
The course of withdrawal varies. In some people, severe withdrawal—including delirium tremens—can occur several days after the last drink. Continued medical monitoring may be necessary for people at risk.
This timeline is a general guide, not a way to predict how an individual person's withdrawal will progress.