How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last? Timeline, Symptoms & What to Expect

Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal: A Complete Timeline

If you're considering quitting alcohol or supporting someone who is, understanding the withdrawal timeline is essential. Alcohol withdrawal can range from mild discomfort to a medical emergency, so knowing what to expect helps you prepare and stay safe.

The Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline

Hours 6-12: Early Withdrawal

Symptoms typically begin within 6-12 hours after your last drink:

• Anxiety and nervousness
• Shakiness or tremors
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Rapid heartbeat

Hours 12-24: Increasing Intensity

Symptoms may intensify during this period:

• Increased blood pressure
• Confusion or disorientation
• Hand tremors become more pronounced
• Mood swings and irritability

Hours 24-48: Peak Withdrawal

This is typically when withdrawal symptoms peak. Some people may experience:

• Hallucinations (visual, auditory, or tactile)
• Seizures (in severe cases)
• High fever
• Severe confusion

Days 3-7: Gradual Improvement

For most people, the worst physical symptoms begin to subside:

• Sleep patterns start to normalize
• Appetite returns
• Physical symptoms decrease
• Anxiety may persist but becomes more manageable

Weeks 1-2: Continued Recovery

By the second week, most acute withdrawal symptoms have resolved:

• Energy levels improve
• Mental clarity returns
• Mood stabilizes
• Sleep quality improves

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

Some people experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms lasting weeks or months, known as Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS). Symptoms include:

• Mood swings
• Anxiety and depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty with memory and concentration
• Cravings

PAWS is normal and temporary. These symptoms gradually improve as your brain chemistry rebalances.

Factors Affecting Withdrawal Duration

Several factors influence how long withdrawal lasts:

• Duration of drinking: Longer history = potentially longer withdrawal
• Amount consumed: Heavy drinking leads to more severe symptoms
• Previous withdrawals: Each withdrawal can be more severe (kindling effect)
• Overall health: Better health often means easier recovery
• Age: Older adults may experience longer withdrawal
• Co-occurring conditions: Mental health conditions can complicate withdrawal

When to Seek Medical Help

Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone experiences:

• Seizures
• Severe confusion or disorientation
• Hallucinations
• Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
• Severe vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing

Tips for Managing Withdrawal

Medical Support

Consider medically-supervised detox, especially if you've been drinking heavily. Medications can ease symptoms and prevent complications.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water and electrolyte-rich beverages. Dehydration is common during withdrawal.

Nutrition

Eat small, nutritious meals. Focus on easy-to-digest foods rich in vitamins B and C.

Rest

Your body is working hard to heal. Get as much rest as possible, even if sleep is difficult at first.

Support System

Don't go through this alone. Connect with supportive friends, family, or a recovery community like MyRecoveryPal.

Life After Withdrawal

Completing withdrawal is a huge accomplishment, but it's just the beginning of recovery. The weeks and months after withdrawal are crucial for building a sober life. Consider:

• Joining a peer support community
• Working with a therapist or counselor
• Attending support group meetings
• Building healthy daily routines
• Tracking your progress with a sobriety app

You're Not Alone

Millions of people have successfully navigated alcohol withdrawal and built fulfilling sober lives. At MyRecoveryPal, our community understands what you're going through. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Join Our Free Recovery Community