Alcohol Withdrawal (Symptoms, Timeline + Treatment)

When someone who drinks heavily decides to stop, they may go through a process known as alcohol withdrawal. This is the body’s reaction to suddenly being without alcohol after becoming dependent on it. While some symptoms are mild, others can be life-threatening, making it critical to understand what alcohol withdrawal looks like, how long it lasts, and what treatments are available.

Contact Lake Avenue today to begin alcohol rehab in Massachusetts.

What Is Alcohol Withdrawal?

Withdrawal symptoms occur when the brain and body, which have adjusted to frequent alcohol use, are forced to function without it. Over time, heavy drinking alters brain chemistry, particularly neurotransmitters like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate, which regulate calmness and excitement. When alcohol use stops, the brain becomes overstimulated, leading to uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal

Not everyone experiences alcohol withdrawal in the same way, but there are patterns of symptoms that appear depending on the severity of dependence.

Mild Symptoms

These may start just hours after the last drink and include:

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Insomnia or restless sleep
• Sweating and clammy skin
• Shakiness or tremors

Moderate Symptoms

As withdrawal progresses, symptoms can intensify:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Increased blood pressure
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or mood swings
• Fever

Severe Symptoms (Delirium Tremens)

In the most serious cases, a condition called delirium tremens (DTs) may develop. DTs usually occur within 48–72 hours after the last drink and may include:

• Severe disorientation
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
• Seizures
• Severe agitation
• Profound confusion

DTs are considered a medical emergency and can be fatal without immediate treatment.

Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline

The alcohol withdrawal timeline varies depending on how much and how often a person drank, their overall health, and other individual factors. Still, there are general stages most people go through.

6 to 12 Hours After Last Drink

Mild symptoms such as anxiety, headache, sweating, and nausea typically begin.

12 to 24 Hours After Last Drink

Symptoms may worsen, and hallucinations—such as seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t real—can begin.

24 to 48 Hours After Last Drink

More intense symptoms like seizures may appear. This stage can be particularly risky for those with a history of heavy drinking.

48 to 72 Hours After Last Drink

This is the window where delirium tremens is most likely to occur. Symptoms may peak in severity and require urgent medical intervention.

After 72 Hours

Most symptoms begin to lessen in intensity. However, some individuals may experience lingering anxiety, insomnia, or mood disturbances for weeks—sometimes referred to as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).

Risk Factors for Severe Withdrawal

Not everyone who drinks heavily will experience the same severity of alcohol withdrawal.

Certain factors increase the risk of complications:

• Long history of heavy drinking’
• Previous withdrawal episodes
• Co-occurring mental health conditions
• Other substance use
• Poor physical health or nutritional deficiencies

Understanding these risk factors helps medical professionals plan safe detox strategies.

Why Detoxing Alone Is Dangerous

It may be tempting to try to quit drinking “cold turkey” at home, but alcohol withdrawal can be unpredictable and, in some cases, deadly. Severe complications like seizures and DTs can occur without warning.

Medical supervision during alcohol detox provides:

• 24/7 monitoring for complications
• Access to medications that ease symptoms
• Emotional support and counselling
• A safer, more comfortable detox process

Treatment for Alcohol Withdrawal

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms but often includes a combination of medical and psychological support.

Medications

Doctors may use specific medications to help stabilize brain chemistry and reduce withdrawal symptoms. 

Common options include:

• Benzodiazepines – to reduce anxiety, agitation, and seizures
• Anticonvulsants – to help prevent seizures
• Beta-blockers or clonidine – to reduce rapid heart rate and high blood pressure

Supportive Care

Supportive measures make withdrawal safer and more comfortable:

• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
• Proper nutrition to replace deficiencies
• A calm, quiet environment to reduce agitation

Ongoing Therapy

Detox is only the first step. Long-term recovery often includes:

• Individual or group therapy
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
• Inpatient or outpatient rehab programs

The Importance of Professional Help

If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol dependence, know this: alcohol withdrawal is not just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. With the right care, recovery becomes safer and more achievable. Professional treatment centers provide medical oversight, emotional support, and tools to begin long-term sobriety.

Get Help for Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Today

With medical care, therapy, and ongoing support, At Lake Ave Recovery, we provide compassionate, professional care designed to guide you through withdrawal safely and help you build a strong foundation for lasting recovery. 

If you or a loved one is ready to take that step, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way. Visit our admissions page today to get started.