Detoxing From Alcohol at Home: Symptoms to Expect

Detoxing from alcohol is often the first step towards overcoming alcohol addiction. It’s important that you understand the symptoms to expect during this process if you want a safe and effective recovery journey.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting an at-home detox. Severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening, and professional guidance is crucial to ensure your safety.

But what should you expect when you detox from alcohol at home? That’s what we’ll be exploring in this blog post. Read on to learn more about the symptoms to expect when detoxing from home, from mild symptoms to severe symptoms.

What is Alcohol Withdrawal?

Before we explore the key symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, it’s important to understand the concept of withdrawal itself.

When you have a dependence on alcohol and you suddenly stop drinking, your body and brain react to the absence of alcohol.

These reactions result in a range of physical and psychological symptoms, collectively known as alcohol withdrawal.

The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms can vary widely from person to person, depending on factors such as the severity of the alcohol use disorder, overall health, and previous detox experiences.

Mild Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms to Expect

Mild withdrawal symptoms are common during alcohol withdrawal. These can be uncomfortable and unpleasant but aren’t life-threatening. Some mild withdrawal symptoms include:

Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the most common early symptoms. It is an uncomfortable mental health problem – it can leave you feeling on edge, restless, and worried. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or relaxation techniques can help manage this symptom.

Nausea and Vomiting

You may experience an upset stomach and vomiting during alcohol withdrawal. Stay hydrated and consume small, easily digestible meals to relieve these symptoms.

Sweating

Profuse sweating, along with clammy skin, is common – be sure to stay hydrated throughout the detox process.

Tremors

You may experience shaking or trembling, particularly in the hands. Hand tremors usually appear within hours after your last drink, to a day after your last drink. These should subside gradually.

Insomnia

You should expect sleep disturbances such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep when withdrawing from alcohol. Be sure to create a calming bedtime routine and avoid caffeine before bed to help improve sleep quality.

Moderate Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms to Expect

There is a chance you will experience some moderate symptoms, such as high blood pressure and mood swings.

High Blood Pressure

Increased blood pressure is a possible symptom during withdrawal. Make sure that you monitor your blood pressure regularly, and let a healthcare professional know if it rises significantly.

Rapid Heart Rate

Your heart may beat faster than usual. Practise deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques to regulate your heart rate.

Irritability and Mood Swings

You may find yourself easily irritable and experiencing mood swings. Calming activities such as peaceful walks or reading may help to stabilise your mood.

Severe Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms to Expect

Although severe symptoms are less common, it’s important to be aware of them. Speak to a medical professional if you notice any of the following symptoms:

Hallucinations

You could experience hallucinations during alcohol withdrawal. These hallucinations can involve seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not real. If you or someone you know experiences hallucinations, seek medical attention immediately.

Seizures

Seizures are a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom of alcohol withdrawal. If you have a history of seizures during withdrawal, you should undergo detox under medical supervision.

Delirium Tremens (DTs)

This is a severe and life-threatening condition characterised by confusion, high fever, severe tremors, and hallucinations. DTs require immediate medical attention – so contact medical professionals as soon as possible if you are noticing symptoms.

How Long Do Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Last?

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can vary in length depending on factors such as the severity of your addiction and your medical history.

Although your experience may differ slightly, here is a general idea of how long withdrawal symptoms may last:

• 6-12 hours: Anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and sweating may begin.
• 12-24 hours: Tremors and more severe symptoms can develop.
• 48 hours: Seizures may occur in some cases.
• 72 hours: Hallucinations and delirium tremens may manifest.

It’s important to note that this timeline can vary based on individual factors. You may experience symptoms sooner or later than the estimated time frames.

Coping Strategies During Alcohol Withdrawal

Detoxing from alcohol at home and experiencing withdrawal symptoms can be a challenging process, but there are several strategies to help manage withdrawal symptoms effectively.

Before starting a home detox, consult with a healthcare provider to assess your specific situation and determine the safest approach.

Be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and consider electrolyte-rich drinks to replace lost fluids and minerals.

We always recommend that you consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. This will help to support your physical health during detox. Additionally, avoid processed foods and excessive caffeine.

Alcohol withdrawal can be draining, so be sure to establish a regular sleep schedule. It can also be a good idea to create a calming bedtime routine to improve sleep quality.

In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to manage withdrawal symptoms, such as benzodiazepines or anti-nausea medications. Take these medications exactly as prescribed.

It can be helpful to share your detox journey with family and friends who can offer emotional support and encouragement. Don’t detox from alcohol alone; ensure you have somebody who can help support you through the process. 

Likewise, if you are helping a loved one detox from alcohol at home, be sure to seek professional assistance. 

Home Detox Kits at Home Detox UK

Detoxing from alcohol at home may be a good choice. Be sure to consult our experts at Home Detox UK if you want to stop drinking alcohol.

We can determine the best detox method for you. Severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures and delirium tremens, can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Your safety and well-being are key, so you should avoid detoxing cold turkey without consulting a healthcare professional.

Check your eligibility for our convenient at-home alcohol detox kits. If you are eligible, you can begin detoxing from alcohol within a matter of days. Doctors will prescribe you detox medication to ease the withdrawal symptoms – giving you the best chance of long-term recovery. Begin your alcohol-free life today with Home Detox UK.