How Long Does Alcohol Detox Take?

After deciding to break free from alcohol dependency, learn more about the timeline of detox. Knowing exactly how long it takes to detox from alcohol depends on the user and their specific case. Several factors can determine not only the length of the detox but the severity of the withdrawal symptoms.

• How long has the person been drinking (e.g., months, years)?
• How often and how much does the person drink daily (e.g., all day every day, periodic binge drinking sessions, etc.)?
• Does the person combine alcohol use with the use of other addictive substances?
• Are there co-occurring mental health symptoms either caused by long-term, heavy alcohol use or caused by a mental health disorder?
• Are there co-occurring medical health issues (e.g., depression, chronic illnesses, chronic pain, etc.)?

The length of someone’s detox derives from the occurrence or combination of the above factors. Everyone’s recovery timeline varies. Although some are deterred from alcohol detox because of the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, there is help available.

When Will The Detox Symptoms from Alcohol Begin?

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can begin as early as 8 hours after cessation. Symptoms typically peak after 24–72 hours, however, they can last days and even weeks longer depending on the severity of dependence.

Detox from Alcohol Symptoms Timeline:

Six to 12 hours into detox

• Agitation or irritability
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Headaches
• Shaking
• Nausea and vomiting

12 to 24 hours into detox

• Disorientation
• Hand tremors
• Loss of appetite
• Seizures

48 hours into detox

• Seizures
• Insomnia
• High blood pressure
• High fever and excessive sweating
• Delirium tremens

These detox symptoms typically reside within 4–5 days. Others may experience more serious side effects. For instance, delirium tremens is the most severe symptom experienced in alcohol detox. Although it is uncommon, it can be life-threatening.

Symptoms associated with delirium tremens include:

• Altered cognitive function
• Tremors or heavy shaking
• Delirium
• Inability to concentrate or focus
• Intense fear
• Tactile, auditory, and visual hallucinations
• Rapid changes in mood
• Feelings of disorientation
• Being in a stupor or sleeping deeply for a day or more
• Heightened activity or manic behavior
• Seizures, especially tonic-clonic seizures

Detox From Alcohol Has No Definite End-Date, the Goal Is Recovery.

Because of the life-threatening risks that can arise from detoxing, it is not recommended to be completed on your own. Instead, it is recommended that you stay at a hospital or facility where medical professionals can assess your physical and mental health frequently throughout the detox process ensuring your symptoms do not escalate. Medical professionals and specialists can help minimize your withdrawal symptoms, prevent complications, and focus on your well-being and recovery.

What is Post-Acute Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)?

After the initial symptoms subside, some people experience pro-longed side effects commonly known as post-acute alcohol withdrawal syndrome or PAWS. PAWS can last anywhere from weeks to up to a year. These symptoms include:

• Irritability and emotional outbursts
• Anxiety
• Low energy
• Trouble sleeping
• Memory problems
• Dizziness
• Increased accident proneness
• Delayed reflexes
• Intense cravings
• Chronic nausea

As quickly as these symptoms appear, they will disappear again within a few days. During these weeks, months, and years after the alcohol detox is the hardest for those recovering from alcohol abuse. It’s important to receive support not only at the beginning of your detox from alcohol but even afterwards to ensure your well-being.

Sources:

https://www.alcoholrehabguide.org/alcohol/withdrawal/

https://www.alcohol.org/treatment-types/withdrawal-signs/

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000764.htm

https://www.alcoholrehabguide.org/alcohol/withdrawal/#sources

Originally published at https://rtrwellnesscenter.com on October 13, 2020.