Understanding the alcohol withdrawal timeline helps individuals prepare for detox and know what to expect. While everyone's experience is different, there are general stages that most people go through.
The first stage begins 6-12 hours after your last drink. Symptoms are usually mild and include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and abdominal pain. Many people describe this as feeling like a bad hangover.
The second stage occurs 12-48 hours after the last drink. Symptoms intensify and may include increased blood pressure, body temperature, and heart rate. Some people experience hallucinations during this phase.
The third stage, occurring 48-72 hours after the last drink, is the most critical. This is when delirium tremens (DTs) can occur, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms include severe confusion, fever, and seizures.
Most acute withdrawal symptoms resolve within 5-7 days. However, some people experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can include mood swings, sleep problems, and cravings lasting weeks or months.
Medical supervision during alcohol detox is essential. At Surf City Detox, we provide 24/7 monitoring and medication-assisted treatment to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the withdrawal process.
Dr. Eric Chaghouri, MD
Surf City Detox Medical Team
