How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last? (Detox Timeline, Symptoms, & Anxiety)

A man stands in a field looking down to represent what is addictive personality disorder.

Updated August 14, 2024

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Edited By

Amy Leifeste

Medically Reviewed By

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Edited By

Amy Leifeste

Medically Reviewed By

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

A man stands in a field looking down to represent what is addictive personality disorder.

Alcohol addiction is a serious problem affecting almost 30 million U.S. adults. When someone who is dependent on alcohol decides to stop drinking, they may experience alcohol withdrawal. This can be a challenging time, both physically and mentally.

Understanding the process and knowing what to expect can help make alcohol cessation easier to manage. Alcohol withdrawal can start as soon as 6 hours after the last drink. Symptoms can be mild at first but may become more severe over time. The worst symptoms often occur between 24 and 72 hours after stopping alcohol. Most people feel better within a week, but some may experience anxiety and other symptoms for weeks or even months.

Read on to learn “what does alcohol withdrawal feel like?”, discover the signs of alcohol withdrawal, and find out how to get compassionate, effective treatment for detoxing from alcohol.

 

What Is Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction, also known as alcohol use disorder, is when a person cannot control their drinking. They may continue to drink even when it causes problems in their life. Alcohol addiction can affect anyone and is considered a chronic condition that changes the way the brain works.

 

Signs of Alcohol Addiction

Signs of alcohol addiction can vary from person to person but often include:

  • Drinking more or for longer than intended.
  • Trying to cut down but being unable to.
  • Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking.
  • Craving alcohol or feeling a strong need to drink.
  • Continuing to drink even when it causes problems with family, friends, or work.

 

How to Tell if You or a Loved One Has an Alcohol Addiction

It can be hard to know if you or someone you care about has alcohol addiction. Here are 5 signs to look for:

  1. Drinking alone or in secret.
  2. Lying about how much or how often they drink.
  3. Neglecting responsibilities at home, school, or work.
  4. Losing interest in activities they used to enjoy.
  5. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, such as shaking, sweating, or feeling sick.

 

If you notice these signs, it might be time to seek help. Talking to a doctor or a counselor can be a good first step toward recovery.

 

When Does Alcohol Withdrawal Happen?

Alcohol withdrawal happens when someone who is physically dependent on alcohol suddenly stops or reduces their alcohol intake. This can start as soon as 6 hours after the last drink. Alcohol detox symptoms can last for days or even weeks, depending on how much and how long the person has been drinking.

 

Why Does Alcohol Withdrawal Happen?

Alcohol withdrawal happens because the body and brain get used to having alcohol. Alcohol affects the brain’s chemicals, making the body rely on it to function normally. When the drinking stops, the brain needs time to adjust back to working without alcohol. This causes withdrawal symptoms, as the brain works hard to find balance again. What are the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, then?

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Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal

The effects of alcohol withdrawal can start just a few hours after the last drink and can last for days or even weeks. The symptoms vary from person to person and can be mild or severe, manifesting over distinct alcohol withdrawal stages.

 

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Here are some common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal:

  • Shaking and tremors: Many people experience shaky hands or body tremors.
  • Anxiety: Feeling nervous or anxious is among the most common symptoms of alcohol detox.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Some people feel sick to their stomach and may vomit.
  • Sweating: Excessive sweating, even in a cool environment, can occur.
  • Headaches: Painful headaches are frequent during withdrawal from alcohol.
  • Insomnia: Trouble sleeping or staying asleep is a common issue during alcohol detox.
  • High blood pressure: Blood pressure can rise, leading to more health problems.
  • Rapid heart rate: The heart might beat faster than normal.
  • Hallucinations: Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there can happen, especially in severe cases.

 

These symptoms can be very uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous. Seek medical help when going through alcohol withdrawal to make the process safer and easier.

 

Coping With the Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal: How to Ease Symptoms

Dealing with alcohol withdrawal can be tough, but there are ways to make it easier. Here are some tips to help cope with the symptoms:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body stay balanced.
  • Eat healthy foods: Eating nutritious meals can give you strength and energy.
  • Get rest: Make sure to rest and get enough sleep, even if it’s difficult to sleep at night.
  • Stay calm: Find a quiet, comfortable place to relax. Practice deep breathing or meditation to help with anxiety.
  • Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a counselor who can offer support and encouragement.
  • Avoid triggers: Stay away from places or situations where you might be tempted to drink.

 

Keep in mind that you don’t have to go through this alone. Medical professionals can provide help and support to make the process safer and more comfortable.

 

What Is the Alcohol Withdrawal Duration?

The duration of alcohol withdrawal varies from person to person. For most people, symptoms start within 6 to 12 hours after their last drink. The worst symptoms usually peak around 24 to 72 hours after stopping alcohol. While many symptoms go away after a week, some, like anxiety and trouble sleeping, can last for weeks or even months.

 

Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline

Everyone experiencing alcohol withdrawal has a unique experience, but the process usually follows a similar timeline.

 

First 6 to 12 hours:

  • Mild symptoms begin, such as headaches, anxiety, and nausea.
  • You might feel shaky and start sweating.

 

12 to 24 hours:

  • Symptoms can get worse.
  • Hallucinations might occur, where you see or hear things that aren’t there.

 

24 to 48 hours:

  • This is when symptoms are often the worst.
  • You might have seizures or feel very confused.

 

48 to 72 hours:

  • DTs (delirium tremens) can start, which are severe symptoms like hallucinations, high blood pressure, and fever. 

 

After 72 hours:

  • Symptoms usually start to get better.
  • Some people might still feel anxious or have trouble sleeping for a longer time.

 

It’s essential to get medical help during alcohol withdrawal to manage these symptoms safely.

 

What Factors Affect the Timeline of Alcohol Withdrawal?

Several factors can affect how long alcohol withdrawal lasts and how severe the symptoms are:

  • Amount of alcohol consumed: People who drink a lot of alcohol over a long time may have more severe and longer-lasting withdrawal symptoms.
  • Length of time drinking: The longer someone has been drinking heavily, the more likely they are to have severe withdrawal symptoms.
  • Overall health: A person’s general health, including liver function and nutritional status, can impact the severity and duration of withdrawal.
  • Age: Older adults might experience more severe withdrawal symptoms than younger people.
  • Previous withdrawal: If someone has gone through alcohol withdrawal before, they might have more severe symptoms the next time.
  • Other health conditions: Having other medical or mental health conditions can make withdrawal symptoms worse.

 

Understanding these factors can help in managing and preparing for alcohol withdrawal more effectively. It’s always best to seek medical advice to handle withdrawal symptoms safely.

 

What You Need to Know About Alcohol Detox

Alcohol detox is the process of removing alcohol from your body after you stop drinking. This is the first step in recovering from alcohol addiction. Detox helps your body get rid of alcohol and starts the healing process. It’s a fundamental step because it helps manage the withdrawal symptoms that happen when you stop drinking. Understanding alcohol detox can make the process less scary and help you know what to expect.

There are different ways to detox from alcohol. The right choice depends on how much and how long you have been drinking, and your overall health. Here are some common types of alcohol detox:

  • Medical detox: This is done in a hospital or detox center. Medical professionals monitor you 24/7 and give you medications to ease withdrawal symptoms. This is the safest way to detox, especially if you have been drinking heavily.
  • Outpatient detox: You go to a clinic, rehab center, or doctor’s office during the day and go home at night. This is for people with milder withdrawal symptoms and strong support at home.
  • Home detox: Some people choose to detox at home. This is risky and not recommended without medical supervision. If you choose this option, make sure to have someone with you who can help and call for medical assistance if needed.

 

During alcohol detox, your body will go through changes as it gets used to functioning without alcohol.  Preparing for detox can help make the process smoother. Here are some steps to take:

  • Talk to a doctor: Before you start detox, talk to a healthcare professional. They can advise you on the best way to detox and provide medical support.
  • Get support: Let friends or family know you are detoxing. Having someone with you can provide emotional support and help in case of an emergency.
  • Create a safe environment: Make sure your home is safe and comfortable. Remove any alcohol and have healthy foods and drinks available.
  • Plan for rest: Detox can be exhausting. Plan to take time off work or school and avoid stressful situations.

 

What Is Alcohol Detox?

Alcohol detox helps break physical dependence on alcohol. When you drink alcohol regularly, your body gets used to it. Stopping suddenly can cause your body to react with withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous. Detox helps manage these symptoms safely. It also prepares you for the next steps in your recovery journey, like therapy and support groups.

Alcohol detox is the first step in overcoming addiction. It helps your body get rid of alcohol and start healing. Understanding what to expect and getting the right support can make the process easier and safer.

 

Where Can I Find a Rehab That Offers an Alcohol Detox Program?

Finding a rehab center which offers alcohol detox can increases the chances of long-term recovery. Here are some ways to find a suitable rehab program:

  • Ask your doctor: Your doctor can recommend a rehab center that offers alcohol detox. They can provide information about the best options for your needs.
  • Search online: Look up rehab centers in your area which specialize in alcohol detox. Most reputable treatment centers have websites with details about their programs and services.
  • Check reviews: Reading reviews from other people who have gone through detox can help you find a good treatment facility. Look for positive feedback about the staff, facilities, and success rates.
  • Contact helplines: There are helplines available that can provide information and support. They can help you find a rehab center and answer any questions you have about the process.
  • Ask for referrals: If you know someone who has gone through alcohol detox, ask them for recommendations. Personal referrals can provide insight into what to expect.
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Receive a Medically-Assisted Alcohol Detox at Gratitude Lodge

Do you need help for yourself or a loved one who’s dependent on alcohol? If so, reach out to Gratitude Lodge today. We have inclusive and pet-friendly rehabs in Long Beach and Newport Beach, California, where we can help you detox from alcohol and get ongoing inpatient treatment.

When you begin your recovery with our supervised medical detox program, you will have chance to withdraw from alcohol safely under close supervision. Staff can prescribe medications to make the process as safe and comfortable as possible. After about one week of detox, you will be ready for treatment at one of our luxury rehabs by the beach.

Detox addresses physical dependence on alcohol, and ongoing inpatient treatment helps you explore the root causes of your addiction and learn healthy coping skills for sober living. Medications may be used throughout treatment, as well as during detox.

The unique nature of all alcohol addictions means that all Gratitude Lodge treatment plans are personalized. Therapies include:

  • Talk therapies
  • MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
  • Motivational therapies
  • Group therapy
  • Counseling
  • Family therapy
  • Holistic treatments
  • Aftercare

 

Start your recovery from alcohol addiction with effective detox by calling 844-576-0144.

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Holistic Therapy

Our holistic therapy treatments offer a full-scope approach to recovery, addressing your mind, body, and emotions as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This therapy is designed to help address underlying issues and integrate alternative therapies to promote overall health and well-being.
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Psychotherapy

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Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-Assisted Treatment provides you with FDA-approved medications to help ease the symptoms of withdrawal while you’re in treatment. This makes the detox process easier and safer, as well as increasing the chances of a successful recovery.
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Sober Living

Sober living provides a supportive and substance-free living environment for your ongoing recovery. We partner with a number of upscale and carefully vetted sober living homes that are available to our clients after inpatient alcohol and drug addiction treatment.
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Inpatient treatment provides an intensive and comprehensive addiction treatment program in a structured environment. You will receive 24/7 expert care, therapy, and support as you build your foundation for long-term recovery.
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Drug & Alcohol Detox

A crucial first step in the recovery process, our detox program provides a comfortable, medically supervised environment that addresses the physical aspect of addiction and eliminates substances from your body.
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Jenni Bussi

Jenni Busse MS, LPCC

Jenni Busse MS, LPSS is the Clinical Director at Gratitude Lodge. Jenni oversees the clinical program and the clinical team at Gratitude Lodge as a whole. Jenni has worked in treatment for almost 14 years. Her background as a licensed therapist and her passion for helping others intersected with addiction recovery when she started working primarily in detox residential treatment.
Joe Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore has been working in the addiction industry for half a decade and has been writing about addiction and substance abuse treatment during that time. He has experience working for facilities all across the country. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn.

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