Do I Have Alcohol Withdrawal?

Did you cease or reduce alcohol use that has been heavy and prolonged?

Did you experience autonomic hyperactivity (e.g., sweating or pulse rate greater than 100 bpm) within several hours to a few days after the cessation of (or reduction in) alcohol use?

Did you experience increased hand tremor within several hours to a few days after the cessation of (or reduction in) alcohol use?

Did you experience insomnia within several hours to a few days after the cessation of (or reduction in) alcohol use?

Did you experience nausea or vomiting within several hours to a few days after the cessation of (or reduction in) alcohol use?

Did you experience transient visual, tactile or auditory hallucinations or illusions within several hours to a few days after the cessation of (or reduction in) alcohol use?

Did you experience psychomotor agitation within several hours to a few days after the cessation of (or reduction in) alcohol use?

Did you experience anxiety within several hours to a few days after the cessation of (or reduction in) alcohol use?

Did you experience generalized tonic-clonic seizures within several hours to a few days after the cessation of (or reduction in) alcohol use?

Do the symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning?

Can you confirm that the symptoms are not attributable to another medical condition and are not better explained by another mental disorder, including intoxication or withdrawal from another substance?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have alcohol withdrawal.

While it is unlikely that you have alcohol withdrawal, you are displaying some signs related to it. If you drink alcohol on a daily basis, your body will become dependent on it. Alcohol withdrawal occurs when a heavy alcohol drinker suddenly stops or reduces alcohol intake. If you experience severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms, you have to call your local emergency number immediately. Especially when you have high fever, hearth disturbances and hallucinations.

While it is unlikely that you have alcohol withdrawal, you are displaying several signs related to it. It may be essential to plan a visit to your doctor. Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, review your medical history and do a physical exam. Your doctor may also conduct a toxicology screen, to know how much alcohol is in your body. If you are a heavy drinker and suddenly stop drinking alcohol or reduce your alcohol intake, it can cause alcohol withdrawal.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have alcohol withdrawal. It is of high importance to talk with your doctor immediately. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may be treated at home or you may need supervision in a hospital. The treatment will focus on managing the symptoms. Additionally, your doctor will want to help you stop drinking in a safe way and as fast as possible. The outlook for people with alcohol withdrawal is good if the person stops drinking and follows his treatment plan. It is normal however to continue experiencing problems with sleeping, irritability and fatigue for some months.