What are the Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal?

What are the Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal?

While the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can vary from person to person based on the severity of their addiction and their body composition, one thing is certain, alcohol withdrawal can be deadly and should be completed in the care of a medical professional for the safety of the client.

At Indah Recovery, our addiction treatment programming provides comprehensive detoxification and therapeutic treatment in a luxury facility designed to support individuals through this transition. Our intimate setting provides clients with greater access to our health care professionals and allows us to more alternative treatment methods to promote healthy living through a sober lifestyle.

Contact us today to see how our treatment programs can help you make the recovery you want in a facility that feels like home.

Is Alcohol Addictive?

Yes, alcohol is an addictive substance, which is why there are so many regulations on who can consume it, restrictions on what activities can be done when consuming it, and how and where it can be sold. 

Alcohol addiction is caused by many factors, some that individuals might not even be aware of when they begin drinking. Alcohol addiction, while it is most often related to misuse, can be impacted by the environment and genetics. 

Alcohol misuse involves consuming alcohol outside the parameters and guidelines instructed. Drinking underage, drinking and taking additional risks, binge drinking, and drinking while using other medications all increase the risk of developing an addiction to the substance based on how it impacts the body and the mind. 

Genetics and environment can also play a large part in whether or not a person develops a drinking problem. Individuals who experience addiction at a young age, whether in their environment or because of their genetics, have a predisposition and early interaction with unhealthy use and can learn unsafe drinking habits subconsciously. While this doesn’t specifically lead to addiction, it can cause an increased likelihood of developing an addiction for individuals who misuse alcohol.

Can Alcohol Cause Withdrawal?

Alcohol is an addictive substance. One of the requirements of a substance to be considered addictive is the presence of withdrawal symptoms. Alcohol can have mild to severe withdrawal symptoms based on the length of use and the severity of the addiction.

Alcohol withdrawal typically begins within a few hours of the individual’s last drink and peaks between 24-72 hours with the most severe of symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms typically end in about a week, but mental health symptoms, repercussions from withdrawal, and tremors can last for months. 

What are the Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal?

The symptoms and signs of withdrawal from alcohol can range from mild to severe and occur in stages. 

In the first stage of withdrawal, during the first few hours of an individual not drinking, they may experience common withdrawal symptoms like: 

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Restlessness
  • Mood swings
  • Difficulty concentrating

These withdrawal symptoms then transition into the second stage, where they become more complex and are usually the most severe between 24-72 hours. During this time, initial symptoms may worsen, and others may evolve, including:

  • Sweaty, clammy skin
  • Dilated pupils
  • Headache
  • Insomnia
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Sweating, clammy skin
  • Tremors

At this time, individuals may develop the DTs or delirium tremens, which consists of extreme withdrawal symptoms like:

  • Agitation
  • Fever
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Severe confusion

Individuals who develop the DTs will most often have a seizure within the first 48 hours of their last drink. This process can be scary, but often doesn’t cause lasting damage when a person undergoes withdrawal under the care of a medical professional. Doctors and clinicians can monitor, care, and support individuals through every step of the withdrawal process, ensuring the safety of the client. 

What to Look For in an Alcohol Detox Center in Southern California

When it comes to alcohol detox centers in Southern California, individuals should search for a location that provides top-notch addiction treatment and a treatment facility that supports individuals through the detox process with professional medical care. 

At Indah Recovery, we offer detoxification and addiction treatment on a luxury campus. Our specialized addiction treatment plans are designed to support the needs of clients by combining traditional and alternative treatment methods to provide the best holistic treatment options available. 
Contact Indah Recovery today to see how our addiction treatment program can support you through the transition to a healthier, sober life.