Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that impacts millions of individuals and their families every year. Detoxification is often the first step in overcoming alcoholism, but it’s also one of the most challenging. Understanding the alcohol detox process can help individuals prepare for what’s ahead and take the first steps toward a sober, healthier life.
At Surf City Detox in Huntington Beach, California, we provide medically supervised alcohol detox services that prioritize comfort, safety, and lasting recovery. In this guide, we’ll walk through how alcohol detox works, what symptoms may arise, and why professional care is essential.
How Does Alcohol Detox Work?
Alcohol detox is the process by which the body eliminates alcohol from the system. After prolonged or heavy drinking, the brain and body adapt to alcohol’s presence. When alcohol is suddenly removed, the central nervous system becomes hyperactive, leading to withdrawal symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
Detox is more than just abstaining from alcohol; it’s a medical process that supports the body through this adjustment period. Without proper medical care, alcohol withdrawal can result in dangerous complications, including seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (DTs). At Surf City Detox, our clinicians monitor clients 24/7 to ensure symptoms are managed with medication, hydration, and emotional support.
Stages of the Alcohol Detox Process
Every person’s detox experience is unique, but most people pass through four identifiable stages. These stages vary depending on the severity of the alcohol dependence, health conditions, and history of alcohol use.
The early stage of detox usually begins within six to twelve hours after the last drink. During this phase, symptoms begin to appear as the body starts to react to the absence of alcohol. Common symptoms include:
- Mild anxiety or restlessness
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Stomach discomfort or nausea
- Mild tremors (shakiness)
This stage may feel similar to a hangover, but it is the body’s first sign of alcohol withdrawal. The severity of symptoms often increases as detox progresses.
This is often the most difficult and dangerous part of the alcohol detox process. Between 24 to 72 hours after the last drink, withdrawal symptoms typically peak. This stage can include:
- Severe anxiety or panic
- Sweating and fever
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
- Confusion or disorientation
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
For individuals with a long history of alcohol use or co-occurring medical conditions, this stage requires close medical supervision to manage complications such as DTs, which can be fatal without treatment.
After the peak stage, the intensity of withdrawal symptoms begins to taper off. Most clients experience significant symptom reduction around the fourth or fifth day. However, some symptoms may persist, including:
- Mood swings or irritability
- Fatigue
- Digestive issues
- Mild tremors
- Ongoing sleep difficulties
While physical symptoms often lessen, emotional and psychological symptoms may remain, emphasizing the importance of continued care beyond detox. Many clients describe this stage as a mental balancing act – reconnecting with their emotions and managing triggers while still physically recovering.
The final stage of detox marks the transition from acute withdrawal to early recovery. At this point, physical symptoms have largely resolved, but post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) can emerge. These may include:
- Anxiety or depression
- Cravings
- Cognitive fog
- Sleep disturbances
This stage is crucial for laying the groundwork for long-term recovery. Transitioning into residential or outpatient treatment at Surf City Detox provides continued support through therapy, education, and relapse prevention planning. It is during this time that many individuals begin to build coping mechanisms, learn about their addiction, and engage in community-based healing.
What is Detox Like for Someone With Alcoholism?
Detoxing from alcohol is a deeply personal experience that varies based on the individual’s physical health, length of alcohol use, and emotional state. For someone with alcoholism, detox can be physically taxing and emotionally intense.
Clients often report feeling vulnerable, scared, or overwhelmed during the process. That’s why Surf City Detox emphasizes compassion and personalized care throughout the detox process. Our serene environment, experienced staff, and tailored treatment protocols help ease the transition and promote healing.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT), hydration therapy, nutrition support, and trauma-informed care are all part of our detox process. Clients are also introduced to recovery tools such as mindfulness, group therapy, and peer support to begin fostering long-term sobriety from day one.
Our team works closely with each client to identify co-occurring mental health concerns and develop an individualized care plan that supports full-spectrum healing. The detox process isn’t just about eliminating alcohol; it’s about creating a space for renewal and rediscovery.
What Medication is Used for Alcohol Detox?
Medical intervention is often necessary to safely manage alcohol withdrawal. Several FDA-approved medications can be used during detox, depending on the client’s symptoms and medical history. These include:
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam): Used to reduce the risk of seizures and calm hyperactivity in the nervous system.
- Anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine, gabapentin): Sometimes used as an alternative or supplement to benzodiazepines.
- Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol): Used in cases of hallucinations or severe agitation.
- Beta-blockers or clonidine: Help manage elevated blood pressure and heart rate.
- Thiamine and multivitamins: Used to prevent Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome and correct nutritional deficiencies common in chronic alcohol use.
Medication regimens are closely monitored and adjusted by Surf City Detox’s clinical team to maximize safety and comfort.
Our medical team also evaluates each client’s previous detox history, current health status, and psychiatric needs to make medication decisions that align with both short- and long-term recovery goals.
Alcohol Detox Process FAQs
Alcohol detox typically lasts 7 to 10 days, though some individuals may complete detox sooner or require extended care depending on the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Physical symptoms often resolve within the first week, but psychological and emotional symptoms may persist and require further treatment.
Some clients may feel better in just a few days, while others need two weeks or more to fully stabilize. Detox is not a one-size-fits-all process, and it’s critical to remain patient and committed throughout the journey.
Nutrition plays a key role in supporting the body during alcohol detox. During detox at Surf City Detox, we emphasize:
- Hydrating fluids with electrolytes
- Lean proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu to rebuild muscle mass and stabilize blood sugar
- Complex carbohydrates like brown rice, oatmeal, and sweet potatoes for sustained energy
- Fresh fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants and vitamins
- Foods high in B-complex vitamins to support nervous system function, such as eggs, legumes, and leafy greens
Clients often experience appetite changes during detox, so meals are prepared to be both nourishing and easy on the digestive system. Herbal teas, broth-based soups, and fiber-rich snacks are also offered to ease digestion and promote comfort.
Detoxing from alcohol at home is risky and strongly discouraged, especially for individuals with a history of heavy or prolonged alcohol use. Alcohol withdrawal can cause life-threatening symptoms such as seizures and delirium tremens, which require immediate medical attention.
At Surf City Detox, we provide a controlled and supportive environment where clients are monitored 24/7 by medical professionals. Attempting to detox at home can delay treatment, increase the risk of complications, and reduce the likelihood of long-term success.
Even if symptoms seem manageable in the beginning, they can escalate rapidly. Seeking professional support ensures a safer, more effective start to recovery.
Learn More About the Alcohol Detox Process
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol use disorder, Surf City Detox is here to help. Our alcohol detox program offers personalized medical care, compassionate staff, and a peaceful setting for healing and renewal. From the first symptoms of withdrawal to the first steps into recovery, we walk with you every step of the way.
Whether this is your first time seeking help or you’ve tried to quit before, we understand the courage it takes to reach out. You don’t have to do this alone – let Surf City Detox be your partner in recovery.
Start your recovery journey today. Contact us or visit our website to speak with an admissions specialist. Lasting freedom from alcohol begins with the right support, and we’re here when you’re ready.
Dr. Eric Chaghouri is a 2007 graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned his B. A. in Biology with Summa Cum Laude honors. While at UCLA, he helped the men’s varsity volleyball team earn a National Championship in 2006. He was named the UCLA Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2007.
He earned his medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine in 2011. He completed his internship training in 2008 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the remaining three years of residency in general adult psychiatry at the Los Angeles County and University of Southern California Medical Center. He served as the Chief Resident in psychiatric emergency services during his fourth year of residency. He also served as Resident Clinical Instructor and Volunteer Faculty in the Department of Psychiatry at the Keck School of Medicine.
After completing residency, Dr. Chaghouri accepted a fellowship position in forensic psychiatry at the prestigious USC Institute of Psychiatry and Law. His scholarly activities included publishing in Legal Digest and presenting research findings at the Keck School of Medicine annual conference.
Since completing his forensic psychiatry fellowship, he has established a successful and thriving practice in Southern California, focusing on treatment of co-occurring psychiatric and addictive disorders. He has developed a strong clinical team of practitioners who share similar goals and philosophies regarding psychiatric treatment, including providing cutting-edge interventional treatments for psychiatric conditions. He works in an array of capacities with attorneys, courts, and other parties in actual or potential litigation. He also has extensive experience consulting and providing opinions on psychiatric issues for major television networks. Dr. Chaghouri’s interests include addiction medicine, substance use disorders, forensic psychiatry, medical ethics, psychological autopsy, gender wellness, and evidence-based treatment of psychiatric conditions.
