Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable, if not dangerous. Luckily, professional medics can treat alcohol withdrawal syndrome to alleviate symptoms and make the process more manageable. If you think someone may be experiencing delirium tremens, you must seek immediate medical support. Likewise, if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is in your best interest to contact a rehab center, such as our own, today. So, alcohol detox and withdrawal information are vitally important for individuals (and their loved ones) struggling with alcohol addiction.

• When you are enrolled in a high-quality detox program like ours here at BOLD Health in San Diego, you’re cared for every step of the way.
• We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals.
• The length of the detox process also depends on how much alcohol a person drinks before starting to detox and how frequently they drink alcohol.
• Physical effects rarely last over 10 days, but mental symptoms and cravings may persist for months.

After you decide to stop drinking, your health care provider will conduct an assessment that asks a variety of questions. This may include asking about how much you have been drinking, how long you have been drinking and what medications you take. It is important to be honest about this information so your provider can accurately assess your risk for severe withdrawal and delirium tremens.

Alcohol Withdrawal and Detox Timeline

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recommends inpatient treatment for alcohol withdrawal. Many people are surprised to learn that binge drinkers can experience 5 Tips to Consider When Choosing a Sober Living House withdrawal symptoms. Regardless of the frequency of alcohol intake, if an individual is experiencing some or most of these alcohol withdrawal symptoms, they may have alcohol dependence.

The Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale (PAWSS) is a scale doctors use to determine if patients are at risk of experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms. If an individual combines alcohol with other substances, the detox process might last longer with more severe symptoms. Individuals who start drinking at age 17 or younger are at a higher risk of experiencing hallucinations during the detox process and might experience withdrawal symptoms longer. You’ll experience varying alcohol withdrawal symptoms for about a week, depending on several factors.

How Long Does It Take the Body To Recover From Alcohol Abuse?

Haloperidol, an antipsychotic medication, can help with treating hallucinations or agitation. While each person’s situation is unique, most people experience alcohol withdrawal in three stages. The severity and length of withdrawal can vary widely based on how much you drink and how long you have been drinking. Always discuss your willingness to stop drinking with your health care provider, as they can create a plan that is both safe and effective.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines and that the timeline and severity of withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the individual. If you are experiencing severe or persistent symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. A person who is dependent on alcohol or has been using it for an extended period may experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop drinking. These symptoms occur because the body goes through a period of detoxification, or detox, when a person quits drinking.

How Dangerous Is Detoxing From Alcohol?

Research has shown that behavioral therapies, medication, and group programming can help you overcome addiction. Addiction treatment may be inpatient or outpatient and is usually followed by aftercare. You may experience cravings for alcohol within hours of your last drink.