Alcohol Withdrawal in San Diego:
What to Expect and How to Stay Safe
Alcohol withdrawal can be not only uncomfortable but also dangerous without medical supervision. At Coastal Detox of Southern California, we help individuals safely manage alcohol withdrawal in San Diego through 24/7 medical detox, personalized care, and compassionate support. If you or a loved one is struggling, help is just one phone call away.
Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal
When someone who has been drinking heavily or regularly stops abruptly, the body goes into withdrawal. This happens because the brain has adjusted to the presence of alcohol and must now recalibrate without it. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening.
Common alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:
- Shaking or tremors
- Anxiety or panic
- Insomnia or sleep disturbances
- Headache and nausea
- Heart palpitations
- Hallucinations or seizures (in severe cases)
Want to learn more about the risks of stopping suddenly? Explore our article on quitting alcohol cold turkey.
How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last?
The alcohol withdrawal timeline can vary based on the severity of the alcohol use and individual health factors. Here is a general breakdown:
- 6–12 Hours: Early symptoms like anxiety, sweating, and nausea begin
- 12–48 Hours: Risk of seizures increases
- 48–72 Hours: Delirium tremens (DTs) may occur in severe cases
- 3–7 Days: Symptoms peak and begin to taper off
However, issues like insomnia, anxiety, and irritability can persist. Learn how alcohol impacts rest in our article on alcohol detox and sleep patterns.
Why Medical Detox Is Essential
Detoxing from alcohol without medical support can be fatal. At Coastal Detox SC, our alcohol detox in San Diego provides a safe, structured environment with 24/7 monitoring, medication-assisted treatment, and emotional support to ease symptoms and prevent complications.
→ Learn more about our full alcohol detox program in San Diego.
What Happens After Detox?
Alcohol withdrawal is only the first step in recovery. At Coastal Detox, we help clients transition into ongoing care that promotes long-term healing. Options may include:
→ Alcohol rehab in San Diego for continued therapy and support
→ Residential treatment for immersive, structured recovery
→ 12-step program to build connection and accountability
→ Individual therapy, group counseling, and holistic care
Discover how holistic approaches to alcohol treatment can complement medical care.
Can You Die from Alcohol Withdrawal?
Yes. Severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), and cardiac complications can be life-threatening. This is why medical supervision is critical. At Coastal Detox SC, our team is equipped to manage even the most serious cases safely.
Worried about high-functioning alcohol use? Learn about the signs of high-functioning alcoholism and how to get help early.
How Alcohol Withdrawal Affects Mental Health
Alcohol and anxiety are closely linked. Many individuals experience increased anxiety, depression, or panic during withdrawal.
If you’re navigating both, our team provides dual-diagnosis care. Learn more about the relationship between alcohol and anxiety.
Alcohol Withdrawal Support in San Diego
If you’re in the San Diego area and experiencing alcohol withdrawal—or worried it might be around the corner—don’t wait. Coastal Detox SC provides expert, evidence-based care in a safe and supportive environment.
📞 Call us now for a confidential assessment and take your first step toward recovery.
Looking for peer-based support as part of your recovery? Explore What is Alcoholics Anonymous to learn how community can support your healing journey.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Coastal Detox of Southern California is here to help you detox safely, recover fully, and rediscover the life you deserve.
