Headaches After Quitting Alcohol: Normal Withdrawal Symptom Or Concern?

By days 2 to 4, symptoms may intensify, particularly for those with severe dependence. This is when seizures or DTs are most likely to occur, making professional monitoring essential. Medications like benzodiazepines are often prescribed to manage withdrawal safely, but self-medication is dangerous.

  • Antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be introduced, but their full effects take 4–6 weeks to manifest, making immediate support critical.
  • Alcohol consumption disrupts nutrient absorption, particularly magnesium, B vitamins, and zinc, which are essential for neurological function.
  • Naltrexone, for instance, blocks the brain’s opioid receptors, reducing the rewarding effects of alcohol.
  • Find out what they are and what you should do if you are experiencing them.
  • Quitting alcohol can help reduce the depression and anxiety that alcohol can bring and significantly improve your situation in life, increasing your overall happiness.

Mental Health Conditions

alcohol withdrawal headache

These programs foster a sense of community, accountability, and shared experience, which can be incredibly valuable during the recovery journey. At First City Recovery Center in Kokomo, Indiana, patients have access to a variety of support groups and 12-step meetings as part of their treatment plan. Stay hydrated, get adequate rest, and consider over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Eating balanced meals, practicing relaxation techniques, and avoiding caffeine can also help alleviate symptoms. Your risk of having a seizure is highest within the first 12 hours after stopping or reducing alcohol. You’re also at a higher risk if you have a history of epilepsy, hypoglycemia, or an electrolyte imbalance.

Physical Symptoms: Nausea, tremors, sweating, and insomnia as the body adjusts

  • They may also talk to family, friends or loved ones you previously approved to know and make decisions about your medical care.
  • It includes any drinking behavior that increases the risk of physical, mental or social problems.

We offer a full continuum of care, from medically supervised detox (including intake, stabilization, and treatment) to outpatient and aftercare services. Medical detox is not a treatment in itself, but the first step toward recovery, and our process includes psychological therapy and medical intervention to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. These may be signs of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) or delirium tremens (DTs), both of which require urgent medical treatment. A medically supervised detox provides safety, symptom control, and peace of mind during withdrawal.

  • This fluctuation can result in symptoms such as dizziness and headaches, especially when blood sugar falls quickly after a spike.
  • If you’ve experienced seizures or delirium tremens during a previous withdrawal attempt, your risk of experiencing them again is significantly higher.
  • Symptoms like low blood sugar levels, irritability, and seizures might occur.

Why do I feel anxious after quitting weed?

  • Incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation before bed may also improve sleep quality and reduce headache intensity.
  • To maintain sobriety, it is recommended that an individual receive adjunct therapy, whether it be in group form like with Alcoholics Anonymous, or individual psychotherapies like CBT or MET.
  • Symptoms often start within 1 to 3 days after stopping, although some people notice changes sooner if they used heavily or used weed primarily to sleep.
  • Alternatively, an inpatient program where you stay at a treatment center may be a good decision if you need a more structured environment.
  • When symptoms feel uncomfortable, it can be hard to tell whether they’re part of a normal hangover or something more serious.
  • Genetics, underlying health conditions, age, weight, medication use—all influence how your body reacts.

One significant factor is dehydration, which often accompanies heavy drinking due to alcohol’s diuretic effect. During withdrawal, the body struggles to retain fluids, and inadequate hydration exacerbates headaches. Drinking at least 2–3 liters of water daily, along with electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water or Alcohol Withdrawal sports drinks, can mitigate this issue. Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks, as they can further dehydrate the body and worsen symptoms.

alcohol withdrawal headache

Scroll to Top