How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last?

Deciding to stop drinking is a powerful first step—but for many, the fear of withdrawal can be a major obstacle. Alcohol withdrawal can be physically and emotionally intense, and the symptoms vary from person to person. So how long does it actually last?

The answer depends on several factors, including how much and how often you’ve been drinking, your physical health, and whether you’ve experienced withdrawal before. Understanding the withdrawal timeline—and knowing how to get the right support—can make the process safer and more manageable.

If you’re considering professional addiction treatment in Asheville, here’s what you need to know about what withdrawal looks like, how long it lasts, and why guided care is so important.

What Causes Alcohol Withdrawal?

Alcohol is a depressant that affects the brain and nervous system by slowing activity. Over time, regular drinking leads the brain to adjust by working harder to stay alert and balanced. When alcohol is suddenly removed, the brain remains in a hyperactive state, leading to withdrawal symptoms as it tries to regain equilibrium.

This is why withdrawal can be so intense—your body is essentially recalibrating without the substance it has come to depend on.

Typical Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline

6–12 Hours After Last Drink

● Anxiety

● Irritability

● Sweating

● Nausea or vomiting

● Shaking or tremors

● Insomnia

These early symptoms can start just a few hours after your last drink and may feel like a severe hangover, but they often intensify quickly.

12–48 Hours After Last Drink

● Elevated blood pressure and heart rate

● Increased body temperature

● Mental confusion or difficulty concentrating

● Risk of seizures (especially in heavy, long-term drinkers)

This window is considered high-risk for complications and should be monitored closely—preferably with medical supervision.

48–72 Hours and Beyond

● Delirium tremens (DTs): This is a severe, potentially life-threatening condition marked by hallucinations, confusion, fever, and agitation. DTs affect a small percentage of people but require immediate medical attention.

● Fatigue, mood swings, and sleep disturbances may linger for several days or even weeks.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms (PAWS)

Even after the initial withdrawal period, some individuals experience lingering symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, low energy, and disrupted sleep. This is known as Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome and can last for weeks to months depending on the individual.

Why Professional Detox Matters

Going through alcohol withdrawal without medical support can be dangerous. Severe cases require medication, hydration, and monitoring to prevent complications like seizures or DTs. Even in mild cases, emotional and psychological support can make a world of difference.

At Ritual Recovery, clients receive medically supervised detox and ongoing addiction treatment in Asheville designed to support the body and mind through each phase of withdrawal and recovery.

Healing Starts Here

Withdrawal is temporary—recovery is lifelong. While the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can be challenging, they’re a necessary and manageable part of healing. With the right care and support system, you don’t have to face it alone. The discomfort fades—but what you gain on the other side is worth every step.