One of the main reasons why people don’t seek treatment for alcohol addiction is the fear of withdrawal. Alcohol withdrawal begins when you stop drinking alcohol and your body goes through the detoxification process. It’s essentially your body’s way of hitting the reset button. However, the reset isn’t always safe. During that time, your body will likely go through a series of uncomfortable and possibly even dangerous alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It’s often said that by knowing what to expect, you give yourself a sense of security about what’s to come. That’s why we’re going to break down the timeline of alcohol withdrawal for you.
If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol misuse, it may be time to think about alcohol addiction treatment. Call Footprints Beachside Recovery today at 727-954-3908 to start the journey to recovery.
The Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline
1. The Start of Withdrawal – 6 Hours After Drinking
If you have a history of alcohol abuse, it takes your body about six hours to realize you’ve stopped drinking. At this point, the first symptoms of alcohol withdrawal start to emerge. It’s common to experience anxiety, stress, stomach pains, restlessness, and trouble falling or staying asleep. These symptoms can be so severe that some people immediately start drinking again to manage them. During the early stages of alcohol withdrawal, you may have high blood pressure, increased heart rate, sweating, and dilated pupils. These symptoms are part of the reason why professional detox services are so valuable. Without medical professionals present, it’s difficult to know when your health and safety are at risk.
2. 24 Hours After Your Last Drink
Once you’ve reached 24 hours, many of your withdrawal symptoms will be psychological. Among these symptoms may be hallucinations. Hallucinations are reported to be at their most intense between the first and third day of alcohol withdrawal, with many people experiencing increased stress and anxiety from their deliriums. The good news is, professional detox services like those found at Footprints Beachside Recovery can help you manage these symptoms.
3. 48 to 72 Hours After Your Last Drink
Between the two- and three-day mark is when the most dangerous of alcohol withdrawal symptoms can occur. Seizures, psychosis, and delirium tremens can occur. Aside from causing full body tremors, delirium tremens can also prompt confusion, irregular heart rate and severe shaking. The possible risk of developing delirium tremens is why professional detox is one of the safest ways to break free from alcohol addiction. Delirium tremens can last up to two weeks and is very dangerous without medical supervision.
4. Over 72 Hours After Your Last Drink
The good news is that alcohol withdrawal symptoms will start to subside after seven days. After the seven-day mark, it is very rare for new symptoms to develop unless you have delirium tremens your alcohol withdrawal is milder, you may even see your symptoms go away after five days. While alcohol withdrawal symptoms are typically no longer an issue at this stage, cravings are. Attending alcohol addiction treatment after detox can help you learn how to manage your cravings and lower your risk of relapse.
Receive Alcohol Detox at Footprints Beachside Recovery
At Footprints Beachside Recovery, we know how challenging alcohol addiction can be. We’ve been through it ourselves, which is why we are dedicated to doing everything in our power to help you reach lasting recovery. Our professional detox program will give you a safe and comfortable environment to break free from alcohol. We have medical professionals who will monitor you through the detox process, ensuring your safety and providing you with peace of mind as you recover.
If you’re looking to break free from the grip of alcohol addiction, we’re here to support you. Contact us at 727-954-3908 today to get started.
