GLOSSARY

Alcohol Withdrawal: Symptoms, Treatment & Timeline

After withdrawal symptoms stabilize, continued engagement in recovery services supports long-term planning. Transitioning into rehab programs or structured outpatient support helps maintain momentum, similar to pathways outlined in how addiction rehab works. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms tend to follow a general timeline, though individual experiences vary. Symptoms may overlap or appear unexpectedly, reinforcing the importance of monitored support such as detox rehab services. As withdrawal progresses, symptoms may become more disruptive and affect daily functioning. Moderate symptoms often emerge within the first one to two days and may fluctuate in intensity, similar to effects described in the short-term effects of alcohol.

When should I see my healthcare provider?

  • There are no specific tests that can be used to diagnose alcohol withdrawal.
  • Tennessee Behavioral Health provides comprehensive medical detox services designed to keep you safe while you take the courageous step toward sobriety.
  • Our dedicated team offers compassionate support, ensuring you have the guidance and resources needed to navigate your journey to sobriety and wellness.
  • You may lie awake for hours, trapped between exhaustion and restlessness.

This evaluation allows them to tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique needs. Yes, withdrawal is a possible complication of misusing benzodiazepines. Unfortunately, it’s also possible with long-term use of these drugs even when you take them as prescribed. If you have concerns about dependence and withdrawal from benzodiazepines, your healthcare provider can help you plan the timeline for your treatment. They can also recommend switching you to longer-acting benzodiazepines, which are less likely to cause withdrawal symptoms. The causes of post-drinking tremors vary from temporary nervous system effects to signs of alcohol withdrawal symptoms requiring medical intervention.

what are alcohol withdrawal symptoms

How is delirium tremens diagnosed?

  • It also serves a lot of other important functions, such as keeping your nervous system healthy.
  • After withdrawal is complete, it is essential that you not begin drinking again.
  • Evaluating risks before attempting withdrawal supports informed decision-making and safer outcomes.
  • Professional treatment provides structure, accountability, and evidence-based care that supports both physical stabilization and emotional healing.
  • You don’t have to take this journey alone; we are here to help you through each step of the way.

It helps to have a strong support system to rely on if you may be at risk of relapse. A provider will also ask about your mental health history, as it’s common to have an SUD and a mental health condition. They release dopamine, a chemical in your brain that makes you feel good — until the substance wears off. Your brain and body want to continue this good feeling, even if it’s unhealthy.

Programs

During alcohol withdrawal, a staggering 31-91% of individuals face severe difficulties falling and staying asleep. Your sleep disruption typically peaks during the first week of withdrawal but can persist for months due to neurobiological changes in sleep-regulatory brain regions. This common withdrawal symptom greatly increases your risk of relapse if left unmanaged. After you stop drinking heavy, regular amounts of alcohol, your nervous system needs time to adjust.

What are the types of substance use disorder?

what are alcohol withdrawal symptoms

Your doctor will assess your nutritional status and check for vitamin deficiencies. Concurrent use of other substances can affect the withdrawal process. If you’ve been using benzodiazepines, opioids, or other drugs along with alcohol, the detox process becomes more complex. Your medical team needs to know about all substance use to plan safe treatment. By the end of the first week, many of the acute physical symptoms have resolved.

Rubbing Alcohol vs Drinking Alcohol: Can You Drink Isopropyl Alcohol?

Most alcohol abusers who are having withdrawal symptoms have a Alcohol Withdrawal shortage of several vitamins and minerals and can benefit from nutritional supplements. In particular, alcohol abuse can create a shortage of folate, thiamine, magnesium, zinc, and phosphate. As you progress, you might step down to an intensive outpatient program that allows you to live at home while still receiving several hours of treatment each week. This gradual transition helps you practice your recovery skills in real-world situations while still having strong support. Treatment programs understand this timeline and provide support throughout this extended recovery period. Learning coping strategies and having ongoing support makes a significant difference in managing PAWS successfully.