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Most alcoholics are physically dependent on alcohol, and need to drink regularly to avoid symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can include:

  • Shaking or tremors
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Insomnia
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sweatiness
  • Headache
  • Depression
  • Clammy skin
  • A quick heart beat
  • Confusion
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Delirium tremens
  • Heart failure
  • Coma
  • Death

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms, in severe cases, can be fatal, but a medicated detox is a safe and relatively comfortable period. No one should attempt an alcohol withdrawal without medical supervision.

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can last with some intensity for a week or more. Less severe secondary symptoms of withdrawal, such as insomnia, mood fluctuations and lethargy can last for months after abstinence.1
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Page last updated Aug 05, 2010

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