Detoxification is the foundation of addiction recovery, but it is also one of the most challenging things to go through. Due to the physical and psychological dependence alcohol can create, the resulting withdrawal symptoms can be intense and sometimes life-threatening. Understanding what to expect during alcohol detox, the typical timeline, and why this phase is so crucial can help you prepare for the road ahead.
Why Is Alcohol So Difficult to Withdraw From?
Long-term, heavy drinkers have become dependent on alcohol to maintain a sense of normalcy. If you try to quit or cut back, your body will struggle to adapt, leading to a range of withdrawal symptoms.
The risk of developing delirium tremens is one of the most dangerous aspects of alcohol withdrawal. This severe form of withdrawal can cause confusion, hallucinations, and seizures, and can even be life-threatening, which is why medical supervision is crucial during alcohol detox.
What Is the Alcohol Detox Timeline?
The timeline for alcohol detox can vary depending on factors such as how long you have been drinking, the amount of alcohol you consumed regularly, and your physical health. However, the general phases of alcohol withdrawal typically unfold as follows.
- 6 to 12 hours after last drink: Early withdrawal symptoms start to appear, including headaches, anxiety, nausea, and irritability. Tremors or shaking may also develop during this phase.
- 12 to 24 hours after last drink: Symptoms intensify, with some people experiencing auditory, visual, or tactile hallucinations. Though distressing, these sensations are not usually life-threatening.
- 24 to 48 hours after last drink: The most severe symptoms, including seizures and delirium tremens, may emerge during this critical window. The risk of DTs typically peaks around 48 to 72 hours after the last drink.
- 3 to 7 days after last drink: While the most severe symptoms may begin to subside, you may continue experiencing anxiety, insomnia, and mood swings for several days. In some cases, mild symptoms can persist for weeks or even months with a condition known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome.
What to Expect During Alcohol Detox
The detox experience is unique for everyone, but you can expect to go through a series of physical and emotional changes as the alcohol leaves your system.
- Physical: Sweating, nausea, vomiting, tremors, rapid heartbeat, and in severe cases, seizures.
- Psychological: Intense anxiety, depression, irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.
Due to the risks involved, it is safest to go through alcohol detox in a comfortable, private setting where you can receive round-the-clock medical supervision and medication-assisted treatment to ease your withdrawal symptoms.
Why Detox Is the First Step in Recovery
Detox creates a clean slate by ensuring physical stabilization. Once you have completed this initial phase, you can move seamlessly into your residential treatment program. Here, you can begin working on the underlying issues that contributed to your addiction through therapy, counseling, and developing healthier coping mechanisms.
While alcohol is one of the most challenging substances to withdraw from, detoxification builds an essential foundation for a fulfilling, sober life. NEM Recovery offers a full complement of activities for our clients’ mental and physical well-being, encouraging you to envision a brighter future. Contact us to discover what we can do for you.
