Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms: What to Expect During Detox

If you or someone you love is ready to stop drinking, it’s normal to feel nervous about what comes next. One of the biggest fears people face is the discomfort—or danger—of withdrawal. Understanding alcohol withdrawal symptoms can help you prepare and make informed decisions about detox. 

At Oak Grove Recovery in Westerville, Ohio, we provide medical detox among our addiction treatment programs that’s safe, supportive, and grounded in compassion. You don’t have to go through this alone. This guide breaks down what to expect, when symptoms begin, and why medically supervised detox can make all the difference. 

What causes alcohol withdrawal? 

When you drink heavily or frequently, your brain adapts to the presence of alcohol. It begins to rely on alcohol to function, especially in areas that regulate mood, energy, and sleep. When you suddenly stop drinking, the brain goes into overdrive, causing a range of physical and emotional symptoms. 

This reaction is known as alcohol withdrawal. It’s a medical condition, not just a matter of willpower. For some people, symptoms are mild. For others, they can become serious or even life-threatening without medical support. That’s why it’s so important to seek help from trained professionals who can monitor your health and respond to any complications. 

Common symptoms and when they start 

Alcohol withdrawal isn’t a single moment—it’s a process that unfolds in stages. Recognizing the progression of symptoms can help you or your loved one prepare mentally and physically. Each stage calls for a specific level of care and monitoring, which is why medically supervised detox is essential. Here's a closer look at how symptoms typically present over time: 

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms usually begin 6 to 12 hours after your last drink. The timeline and intensity depend on how long you’ve been drinking, how much you consume, and your overall health. 

Here’s a general timeline of symptoms: 

Delirium tremens (DTs) is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that can involve seizures, confusion, high blood pressure, and hallucinations. DTs can be life-threatening and require emergency medical care. 

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) can last weeks to months after detox. Symptoms include mood swings, fatigue, sleep problems, and difficulty concentrating. These are normal and treatable with continued support. 

Many people are surprised by how intense alcohol withdrawal can be. It’s important to remember that your body is healing and adjusting. What feels overwhelming today won’t last forever. With the right care, you can make it through safely.

Is it safe to detox at home? 

In most cases, detoxing from alcohol at home is not safe. Even if symptoms seem mild at first, they can escalate quickly—especially within the first 72 hours. Withdrawal can affect your heart, nervous system, and mental clarity. 

Without medical care, the risk of complications like seizures, dehydration, or DTs increases. For those with a history of heavy drinking or previous detox attempts, inpatient detox is strongly recommended. 

Medical detox provides: 

• 24/7 monitoring from licensed clinicians 
• Medications to ease symptoms and reduce risk 
• Mental health support to manage anxiety or panic 
• A safer, more comfortable experience overall 

At Oak Grove Recovery, our medical detox program offers a judgment-free, medically supervised space where you can begin your recovery safely and with dignity. We’re here to support your healing with respect, not judgment. 

When to seek medical detox 

If you’re wondering whether you or a loved one needs professional help, here are some signs it’s time to consider medical detox: 

• You’ve experienced withdrawal symptoms before 
• You drink daily or heavily and want to stop 
• You’ve had seizures, hallucinations, or DTs in the past 
• You have other medical or mental health concerns 
• You want the support of trained professionals 

We understand that taking this step can feel overwhelming. That’s why our team is available 24/7 to answer questions and guide you through the process. Our detox program is part of a full continuum of care that includes inpatient treatment, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), therapy programs, and aftercare support. 

Our approach is designed to help you move through each phase of recovery with stability, confidence, and personalized care. Whether this is your first time seeking help or you’ve tried before, we’re here to walk with you. 

How long does alcohol detox last? 

Detox is only the beginning of the recovery journey—but it's a vital one. Alcohol detox sets the foundation for long-term healing, and the way you approach it can influence your overall recovery outcomes. Many people enter detox expecting it to be just a few uncomfortable days, but there’s much more to the process than simply getting alcohol out of your system. 

Most people complete alcohol detox within 5 to 7 days, though it can vary based on individual needs. Here’s a simple timeline for reference: 

Day 1: Symptoms begin (mild anxiety, shaking, nausea) 

Day 2–3: Symptoms peak (risk of seizures, DTs if untreated) 

Day 4–5: Physical symptoms start to ease, but emotional symptoms may continue 

Day 6+: Transition to next level of care (residential or therapy programs) 

For many people, emotional symptoms like depression or mood swings can linger even after the body feels better. That’s why ongoing support after detox is so important. Our team helps you plan your next steps, whether it’s inpatient rehab, continuing therapy, or a tailored aftercare plan. 

The benefits of medical detox at Oak Grove Recovery 

Medical detox is about more than medical stability—it's about dignity. At Oak Grove Recovery, we create a safe, respectful space for people who may be entering treatment after years of hardship, stigma, or fear. We honor your courage with care that is rooted in compassion and built on decades of clinical best practices. 

You deserve more than just getting through withdrawal—you deserve support, compassion, and a plan for what comes next. At Oak Grove Recovery, our medical detox program provides: 

• Medical care 24/7 
• Licensed staff experienced in addiction treatment 
• A private, comfortable setting in Westerville, OH 
• Transportation assistance if needed 
• A clear transition plan into inpatient or therapy programs 
• Access to care for co-occurring disorders like anxiety or depression 

Our facility is nicotine-friendly and visitation is allowed, helping you feel more at ease. We accept Medicaid and are proud to offer accessible, high-quality care to those who need it most. We also coordinate with hospitals, primary care providers, and referral partners to ensure seamless transitions. 

We also offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT) when appropriate to help manage cravings and support long-term stability. Combining medication with therapy, support groups, and holistic care increases your chances of long-term success. 

You don’t have to face detox alone 

Whether you’ve tried to quit drinking before or are just now exploring recovery, your willingness to learn about alcohol withdrawal symptoms is a powerful step. Information leads to preparation, and preparation leads to safer, more successful detox experiences. You don’t have to navigate this alone. Oak Grove Recovery is here for you every step of the way. 

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can feel scary, but they’re also manageable with the right support. Whether you’re just starting to think about detox or ready to begin today, Oak Grove Recovery is here to walk with you. 

Our team offers round-the-clock care and a compassionate environment where your safety and dignity come first. If you're ready to take the next step, reach out now.