What is Alcohol Withdrawal?
Alcohol withdrawal happens when you have been using alcohol a long time and then stop drinking. Withdrawal is rare in people who only drink once in awhile. You are most likely to have problems 1 to 7 days after your last drink. Heavy drinkers are likely to have symptoms each time they quit. These symptoms may not be the same each time.
If you are a heavy drinker, you may have symptoms if you:
- Decide to stop drinking
- Drink much less than you are used to drinking
- Are not able to drink because you are in the hospital, treatment center or jail
What are the symptoms?
The effects of alcohol withdrawal vary. Tell your care provider if you have had bad withdrawal symptoms before. If you have other illnesses, it is very important to tell your care provider. People who quit using other drugs at the same time they stop drinking may have worse symptoms. The symptoms may last 1 to 5 days. Be sure to tell your care provider about the other substances or medicines you use.
Some symptoms are:
- headache
- restlessness
- nausea and vomiting
- racing pulse
- shaking
- sweating
- strong desire to drink to feel better
Some heavy drinkers have severe symptoms. This can put their life in danger. Some examples of severe symptoms include:
- feeling confused
- seizures
- severe shaking
- very high heart rate and blood pressure
- hearing or seeing things that are not real
Get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms.
How can I take care of myself?
The first step is always to get treatment for your alcohol treatment and while you are having treatment for withdrawal:
- Medicines can control the symptoms caused by withdrawal
- Taking medicine at an early stage of withdrawal may keep your symptoms from getting worse
- Ask your care provider for medicine and help with your withdrawal symptoms
- Follow your provider’s advice for treatment