Do you have a chronic drinking problem?
Now, if you’ve decided that it’s time to start your recovery, you may be wondering “How long does alcohol withdrawal last?” Believe it or not, the answer to this question depends on several different factors – things like your body, the addiction you’re facing, and outside forces.
This guide will take a look at the ins and outs of alcohol withdrawal and help you understand what to expect when you’re trying to get clean. Let’s get started:
In the First Six to 12 Hours
Alcohol withdrawal in the first six to twelve hours can be an uncomfortable experience for many individuals. During the first six to twelve hours of withdrawal, individuals may experience a range of symptoms, including increased heart rate, nausea, mood swings, trembling, insomnia, depression, anxiety, and physical pain.
These symptoms can range in severity, so it is important to consult a medical professional if the withdrawal proves intense. Generally, within the first few hours of alcohol detox withdrawal, an individual’s body will become accustomed to the lack of alcohol.
The symptoms will quickly lessen in intensity. It is important to monitor symptoms for the full twelve hours in order to ensure full recovery.
In the Next 12 to 48 Hours
Alcohol withdrawal typically begins within 8-12 hours after discontinuing alcohol consumption and can peak in intensity within 24-48 hours. Depending on the severity and duration of an individual’s alcohol abuse, withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe and can last from approximately 1-7 days.
Common withdrawal symptoms may include increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, tremors, sweating, and anxiety/irritability.
During the next 12 to 48 hours, the physical symptoms of withdrawal, such as flu-like symptoms, tremors, sweating, and nausea, often leading to dehydration, will be the most prominent withdrawal symptoms the individual will experience.
In the Following 48 to 72 Hours
It usually begins within 8 hours after the last drink and can last up to 48 to 72 hours. Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can range from mild to severe and include anxiety, irritability, craving for alcohol, tremors, headache, nausea & vomiting, sweating, confusion, increased heart rate, delirium, hallucinations, and seizures.
In some cases, it can lead to delirium tremens or DTs, a sometimes-fatal condition with severe physical and psychological symptoms. In the following 48 to 72 hours, the withdrawal symptoms will continue to peak and generally begin to resolve by 72 hours.
Start to Improve After 72 Hours
Alcohol withdrawal is a medical emergency that can be life-threatening if untreated. It can start as early as 8 hours after the last drink and can last up to several weeks in some cases. Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can range from mild to life-threatening.
The intensity of symptoms can vary from person to person and depend on the amount and duration of alcohol use. Typically, the first 72 hours of alcohol withdrawal are the most intense, and symptoms, such as anxiety, tremors, sweating, nausea, and insomnia, start to improve after 72 hours.
Look for the best outpatient care facility to help you with the recovery process.
Learn How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last
How long does alcohol withdrawal last? Well, it depends. It can have serious physical and psychological side effects, and for those affected, it can be a multi-layered and long experience.
It is essential for a person to seek professional help from a healthcare provider in order to ensure one’s physical and mental safety. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol dependency, reach out and get professional help.
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