Call Us Now
Alcohol shakes—also known as tremors—are one of the most obvious signs that the body has become physically dependent on alcohol. For some, these tremors begin subtly and are barely noticeable. For others, they’re so severe that simple, everyday tasks like holding a fork or brushing one’s hair feel difficult.
Alcohol shakes are more than inconvenient. They’re a neurological symptom of withdrawal, signaling that the nervous system is struggling to adjust in the absence of alcohol. This guide will break down:
- What alcohol shakes are
- What causes them
- When they start and how long they last
- Other symptoms that may accompany them
- Treatment options for alcohol shakes
- When and how to seek help
If you’re experiencing alcohol shakes or know someone who is, it could indicate a more serious issue. The team at Mandala Healing Center can provide the support needed to safely withdraw from alcohol and maintain long-term sobriety. Reach out whenever you feel ready to learn more about our treatment programs and discover the right one for your situation.
What Are Alcohol Shakes?
Alcohol shakes are a withdrawal symptom that happens when someone who’s used to drinking heavily suddenly cuts back or stops completely. These involuntary tremors usually show up in the hands, fingers, and arms, but they can also affect other parts of the body.
Over time, the body adapts to the presence of alcohol and begins to rely on its sedative effects to function normally. When alcohol is taken away all of a sudden, the central nervous system becomes overstimulated, leading to symptoms like shaking, sweating, and anxiety. While alcohol shakes might seem harmless at first, they’re an early warning sign of alcohol addiction and shouldn’t be ignored.
What Causes Alcohol Tremors?
The primary cause of alcohol tremors is long-term alcohol use. Alcohol slows brain activity by increasing the effects of a calming neurotransmitter called GABA and reducing one called glutamate—which normally keeps the brain alert. This creates the relaxed feeling many people associate with drinking.
With regular alcohol use, the brain adjusts by producing less GABA and more glutamate to balance things out. Eventually, the brain and body come to depend on alcohol to feel stable. Without alcohol, the brain is left with too little GABA and too much glutamate. That imbalance overwhelms the central nervous system, leading to the shakes.
When Do Alcohol Shakes Start & How Long Do They Last?
Alcohol shakes typically begin between 6 to 8 hours after the last drink. For some people, they may show up the next morning after a night of heavy drinking. For others, especially those used to drinking daily, the jitters can start even sooner.
These tremors tend to peak within 24 to 48 hours, right around the same time other alcohol withdrawal symptoms are at their worst. In most cases, they start to go away after a few days, but this can depend on factors like:
- How much and how often the person drinks
- How long they’ve been drinking
- The individual’s overall health
- Whether they’ve gone through withdrawal before
- Whether they’re detoxing with medical supervision
In mild cases, tremors can disappear within a few days. In more severe cases, especially without treatment, they can last longer and increase the risk of complications.
Other Symptoms Associated With Alcohol Shakes
Alcohol shakes are often the first indication that someone is going through alcohol withdrawal, but they’re rarely the only symptom. Other physical and emotional symptoms that might also be present include:
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Rapid heartbeat
- Restlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Anxiety or panic
- Vivid dreams
- High blood pressure
Alcohol withdrawal can also cause hallucinations, seizures, and delirium tremens (DTs) in more serious instances. DT is a life-threatening condition that causes confusion, fever, severe shaking, and dangerously unstable vital signs. Not everyone will experience all of these symptoms, but those who’ve been drinking heavily for years or have had withdrawal symptoms before are at higher risk. It’s essential to seek medical help right away if there are signs of seizures, confusion, or hallucinations.
Treatment for Alcohol Tremors
If someone is experiencing alcohol shakes, especially alongside other withdrawal symptoms, medical detox is the safest and most effective way to recover. Trying to quit alcohol cold turkey can be dangerous. Without the right medical attention, symptoms can quickly worsen, even becoming life threatening.
During medical detox from alcohol, medical professionals monitor symptoms closely and provide treatments to get through withdrawal safely. They may use a combination of tools to reduce discomfort, including:
- Benzodiazepines to help calm the nervous system and lower the risk of seizures
- IV fluids and electrolytes to keep you hydrated and support overall recovery
- Beta-blockers to reduce tremors and help control blood pressure and heart rate
- Thiamine and other vitamins to prevent long-term damage, specifically to the brain and nervous system
Once detox is over, many people continue receiving treatment through therapy, support groups, or rehab programs.
Overcome Alcohol Dependence at Mandala Healing Center
Alcohol shakes make it clear that your body is struggling, and treatment can make all the difference. At Mandala Healing Center, our staff focuses on understanding the root causes of alcohol addiction and giving you tools for long-term healing. With us, you’re not only getting sober, but developing skills to maintain that sobriety.
Contact us today so that we can walk you through your treatment options, verify your insurance coverage, or schedule an intake appointment.
Resources:
