Is it dangerous to stop drinking all at once?
From the RecoveryHome team. We write some questions from situations people often ask us about, and answer them with general information from public health sources. Been through this yourself? Your answer could help the next person who finds this page. How we write team posts
RH
RecoveryHome team Team
asked 2 days ago
Someone who drinks heavily every day decides to quit tonight. Is stopping cold turkey safe?
RH
RecoveryHome team Team
answered 2 days ago · general information, not medical advice
It can be. For people who have been drinking heavily and often, stopping suddenly can cause alcohol withdrawal, which can be dangerous and, in rare cases, life-threatening.
- Symptoms usually start within 6 to 24 hours after the last drink: shaking, sweating, nausea, anxiety, a racing heart, and trouble sleeping.
- Severe withdrawal can include seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (DTs), which usually appear 2 to 3 days in.
- The risk is higher if you've had withdrawal before, drink in the morning to feel normal, or have other health problems.
The safer way is to talk with a doctor first. Medically supervised withdrawal, sometimes called detox, can happen in a hospital, a withdrawal management program, or for some people at home with close medical support. Medications make it much safer and more comfortable.
Get emergency help (call 911) for seizures, confusion, hallucinations, a very high heart rate, or a high fever.
Read more: Alcohol withdrawal: what to expect
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