Recognizing Alcohol Detox Symptoms: What Happens When You Stop Drinking?
Some people can join a widespread initiative like Dry January and stop drinking with no issue. For some, quitting drinking is a more difficult journey, despite their efforts. Those with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) may face significant challenges when attempting to stop or reduce their consumption. Abruptly cutting back can trigger uncomfortable and sometimes severe symptoms known as alcohol withdrawal.
These symptoms can range from something small, like a headache, to something more serious, like hallucinations. It’s important to understand the difference between physical and psychological alcohol detox symptoms so you can recognize if what you’re feeling is more than just a hangover. Ready to take the first step toward recovery? If you or a loved one needs alcohol detox in MI, Sanford Behavioral Health is here to support you every step of the way.
Identifying physical vs. psychological alcohol detox symptoms
If you have an alcohol use disorder, you will encounter a variety of uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if you abruptly discontinue use. As the substance leaves your system, you may experience the following physical and psychological alcohol detox symptoms:
Physical alcohol detox symptoms
After you have developed an alcohol dependence, your body will struggle to adjust if you suddenly stop drinking. Some common physical symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
Severity can vary based on how long and how much someone has been drinking.
Psychological alcohol detox symptoms
Psychological alcohol detox symptoms develop due to imbalances in brain chemistry and may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Mood swings
- Hallucinations
- Inability to concentrate
- Apathy
The most serious cases of alcohol withdrawal may involve a condition known as delirium tremens (DTs), characterized by hallucinations and seizures. If you believe you may have moderate to severe AUD, it’s critical that you seek the help of professionals for alcohol detox. This will help ensure your safety as alcohol leaves your system.
Early signs of alcohol withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal can sometimes be confused with a hangover since many of the symptoms overlap. It’s important to know the difference between the two to alert you to the development of an alcohol use disorder as early as possible.
Some early signs of alcohol withdrawal to be aware of are:
- Symptoms that last more than 24 hours: Hangovers are usually gone within 24 hours after the last drink. If your symptoms continue for several days or more, you may instead be experiencing alcohol withdrawal.
- Hallucinations, paranoia, or confusion: These psychological symptoms are a warning sign that you are experiencing a condition more serious than a hangover and should seek professional support to detox from alcohol safely.
If your hangovers seem to last for days or you experience disturbing psychological symptoms, you may indeed be going through alcohol withdrawal. Addressing this early often makes the recovery process more manageable and can help prevent some of the long-term effects of alcohol misuse.
How long do alcohol withdrawal symptoms last?
One of the most common questions asked about alcohol withdrawal is: How long do alcohol withdrawal symptoms last? The truth is that the duration of alcohol withdrawal varies for each individual, but the general timeline looks like this:
Six to 12 hours after the last drink
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms begin and are mild at first. You might have difficulty sleeping, have a headache, feel nauseous, and even feel anxious.
12 to 48 hours after the last drink
Symptoms start to escalate and can include an elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure, and vomiting.
48 to 72 hours after the last drink
Alcohol detox symptoms are often at their worst at this point, and those with severe AUD are at their highest risk of delirium tremens.
More than 72 hours after the last drink
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms begin to dissipate and usually last up to 10 days. However, those with moderate to severe AUD may continue to experience symptoms for weeks.
Contact Sanford Behavioral Health and start your recovery with our alcohol detox program
If you’re struggling with the effects of drinking and are ready to make a change, we’re here to help. At Sanford Behavioral Health, our alcohol detox center offers a safe and supportive environment to begin your recovery journey. With a personalized detox plan—whether residential or outpatient—you’ll have the care and guidance you need every step of the way. Call us today at 616.202.3326 or complete our online form to take the first step toward healing. You don’t have to do this alone.
