When Does Alcohol Withdrawal Become Dangerous?

Alcohol withdrawal is what happens if you stop consuming alcohol after prolonged use. The process involves various physical and mental responses as the body tries to rebalance. Withdrawal occurs when a person has a dependency on alcohol, and unlike a hangover, it can last for days or weeks.

Alcohol is the most common addiction in the US [1]. In fact, 1 in 10 people in the country report having an alcohol use disorder [2]. Research suggests that around half of people with a disorder will develop withdrawal symptoms [3]. 

Withdrawal is uncomfortable and can be dangerous. Knowing the signs of severe symptoms and how to get help can keep people safe and on the path to recovery. 

What Are Signs of Alcohol Withdrawal?

A variety of alcohol withdrawal symptoms can start as early as 6 hours after a person’s last drink. For most people, withdrawal symptoms peak in the first 48 hours and then alleviate [4]. 

People who have consumed large amounts of alcohol over a long period are more likely to experience severe symptoms for a longer time. Withdrawal has been reported to last for up to 2 weeks in extreme cases [5]. 

Common signs of alcohol withdrawal include:

Alcohol withdrawal is not the same as a hangover; it happens when someone dramatically lowers or stops consuming alcohol after heavy drinking. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism states that heavy drinking is [6]:

Is Alcohol Withdrawal Dangerous?

Yes, alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Most people who experience withdrawal pass through the phase successfully; however, other people are more vulnerable to serious health risks.

People with a higher risk of severe alcohol withdrawal are [7]:

• Those with other substance use disorders
• Older 
• Taking medications
• Those with existing health conditions

Symptoms that are less common but are more dangerous during alcohol withdrawal are: 

• Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium (AWD), more commonly as Delirium Tremens (DTs) 
• Seizures

AWD is a condition characterized by tremors (normally in the hands), hallucinations, and confusion. It affects roughly 1% of people suffering from an alcohol addiction [8]. If AWD is not treated, the person may develop heart and circulatory issues that can be fatal. 

Seizures are also rare — approximately 1% of people have seizures during the first day of withdrawal [9]. However, seizures can lead to physical harm and disruptions in heart and breathing function that can cause death. If someone has previously had a seizure, has gone through withdrawal before or has other health conditions, they are at higher risk of having seizures in withdrawal. 

The accumulative effects of alcohol withdrawal symptoms can also be dangerous. Heart disease, liver disease, and central nervous system disease are all long-term possibilities correlated to withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) is a serious neurological disorder caused by a severe deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1), most commonly associated with chronic alcohol misuse.

Why Does Alcohol Withdrawal Happen?

Alcohol withdrawal happens when the body is working hard to achieve homeostasis — a regulated internal state. 

Alcohol is a depressant, and it slows the central nervous system down. So, when alcohol is suddenly removed, the central nervous system initially speeds up. This overstimulation is what causes withdrawal symptoms. As the system gradually recalibrates, it’s able to continue normal functions, and withdrawal symptoms pass. 

Should Alcohol Withdrawal Be Treated?

Yes, alcohol withdrawal should be treated by medical professionals. Severe withdrawal symptoms particularly require medical supervision.

Detox programs are the first step in treatment for withdrawal, best done in a residential program, and include:

• Identifying factors that make people vulnerable in withdrawal (e.g. if they aren’t aware that an existing health condition increases risk of dangerous withdrawal symptoms)
• Establishing comfort
• Reducing withdrawal symptoms with medication as appropriate
• Offering emotional support and encouragement
• Lowering the risk of relapse

These programs also typically include follow-on residential or outpatient care that features evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). These approaches help address the deeper roots of addiction and help build healthy coping mechanisms. Studies show that these therapies increase the chance of abstaining from alcohol [10][11].

Find Support at Red Rock Recovery 

Alcohol withdrawal can feel scary, but Red Rock Recovery Center is here to help you begin your recovery journey with confidence.

We have licensed medical professionals to make withdrawal as comfortable as possible. We can lower symptoms, use Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT) where appropriate, and provide evidence-based therapies that support long-term healing. We are nonjudgmental, compassionate, and community-driven.

Our center is located close to Denver Colorado, and we are committed to making your recovery from substance abuse accessible and successful.

You are not your addiction. A healthy life awaits you. Speak with our admissions team about withdrawal treatment.

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