Alcohol Withdrawal Signs and Symptoms

It’s a common misconception that only people who use drugs will have to detox. People suffer from alcohol addiction and drink heavily must go through withdrawal in order to recover. Detoxing from alcohol withdrawal is never an easy experience and requires a lot of mental and physical willpower to get through, but it is one of the best decisions someone can ever make. It is the first step for anyone that is serious about quitting their alcohol dependence once and for all. If you or your loved are curious about detoxing, and want to know if it’s necessary, please read the list of signs and symptoms below so you can be prepared for what’s in store. From there, you can ask a medical professional for guidance.

Alcohol Withdrawal Signs and Symptoms List

You should first ask yourself if detoxing is right for you. It’s often necessary when your alcohol abuse is to the point where you need to go through alcohol withdrawal. Some things to consider, in addition to these signs and symptoms, are how often and how heavily you drink. When you drink too much, your body will become physically dependent on this substance. If you go through the following symptoms of withdrawal when stopping altogether, detoxing will be necessary.

  • Headache
  • Shaking
  • Sweating
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Anxiety and restlessness
  • Stomach cramps and diarrhea
  • Sleeping problems
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure

When is Detoxing from Alcohol Withdrawal Necessary

Remember that the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal usually begin within just a few hours after you have quit drinking and reach their peak between the first and second day of quitting. These symptoms start to improve after five days. Do not attempt to go through withdrawal without the aid of a medical professional, as in some instances of alcohol withdrawal have been fatal. The risk of life-threatening withdrawal is more severe with people that have been drinking for years and who are older. In these cases, please seek the assistance of a medical professional to get through withdrawal.