SmartipediaWhat is alcohol withdrawal syndrome?
Imagine waking up feeling like you have the worst hangover of your life - except you haven’t had a single drink. That’s what alcohol withdrawal syndrome feels like for many people struggling with alcohol addiction.
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is the name for the uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms that can occur when someone who has been drinking heavily for a long period of time suddenly stops or drastically reduces their alcohol intake. It happens because the brain has become dependent on alcohol to function “normally.”
What Causes It?
When you drink alcohol regularly, your brain compensates for the depressive effects of alcohol by releasing more stimulating chemicals. This helps you feel alert and awake despite being under the influence.
However, if you then abruptly stop drinking, your brain is suddenly flooded with those stimulating chemicals - but without alcohol to counterbalance them. This chemical imbalance causes the unpleasant physical and mental symptoms of withdrawal.
Common Symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically start within 6-24 hours after your last drink and can last for several days or even weeks. Common symptoms include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating and shaking
- Anxiety and irritability
- Insomnia and nightmares
- Headaches and muscle aches
- Rapid heart rate
- Seizures (in severe cases)
The severity depends on factors like how much and how long you’ve been drinking.
3 Surprising Facts
Alcohol withdrawal can actually be life-threatening in extreme cases due to the risk of delirium tremens (DTs) - a dangerous form of withdrawal involving confusion, fever, and cardiovascular issues.
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms are often compared to having a severe case of the flu - except the “hangover” feeling can last for weeks.
Certain medications can help ease withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications, but quitting “cold turkey” is never recommended due to the health risks.
Learn More
Alcohol Use Disorder: The medical term for alcoholism or alcohol addiction.
Delirium Tremens: A severe form of alcohol withdrawal involving confusion, hallucinations, and seizures.
Addiction Treatment: The various therapies and programs available to help people recover from alcohol and substance abuse disorders.