These changes result to alcohol withdrawal shakes and other symptoms which can begin after 5-10 hours after the last drink reaching about hours and can last for a good number of weeks. Tremors occur typically in the limbs but can also affect other parts of the body. Dehydration and malnutrition can amplify alcohol withdrawal symptoms, including shakes. During this time, it’s essential to stay well-hydrated and consume nutritious foods.
- We invite you to contact us today to learn how we can help as you embark on your recovery journey.
- Our recovery programs are based on decades of research to deliver treatment that really works.
- Consider joining alcohol addiction support groups or seeking therapy to work on the psychological aspects of addiction.
- DT’S will typically appear around 2-4 days after a person’s last drink.
- Remain in this relaxed state for about 15 seconds, then move on to the next muscle group.
Alcohol shakes, or tremors, occur when a long-term or heavy drinker stops consuming alcohol. It can vary from person to person, but they are a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. Progressive muscle relaxation is a stress-relieving technique that should be performed in a quiet environment. A full practice lasts around 20 minutes, but if you’re short on time you can just focus on targeting muscles that feel the most tense. Progressive muscle relaxation can be combined with other stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises and meditation. However, treatment strategies for shakes and alcoholism may differ for everyone.
Perfecting your progressive muscle relaxation technique
Our facilities across the U.S. offer a full continuum of care, custom treatment plans, and comprehensive discharge plans to aid in the success of your recovery. Learn what it takes for recovering alcoholics and their loved ones to navigate the Christmas season and all the parties and festivities while sober. Athletes often use PMR to manage stress or anxiety before a big event and perform their best. Lie on the floor or recline in a chair, loosen any tight clothing, and remove glasses or contacts.
Other symptoms of alcohol-related cerebellar dysfunction can include poor coordination and balance, clumsiness, an unsteady walk and involuntary back-and-forth eye movements known as nystagmus. Some individuals also develop damage to the peripheral nervous system, which may cause muscle weakness, numbness, tingling and burning pain in their extremities known as peripheral neuropathy. When the suppressing effect of alcohol is suddenly reduced or removed, your brain’s hyperactive state is unrestrained, leading to symptoms like shakes. Factors such as the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption, general health, and genetics can influence the severity and duration of these symptoms.
How to Stop Alcohol Shakes & Tremors
For dedicated drinkers, this is highly problematic as the brain has adapted to the constant presence of ethanol in the body to maintain fairly constant homeostasis. As a central nervous system depressant, alcohol slows brain activity and reduces energy levels. But when someone shaking from alcohol consumes large amounts of alcohol regularly, their body adapts to the continuous presence of alcohol. Following these strategies may help, but are unlikely to stop the alcohol shakes fully. When you consume alcohol, it acts as a depressant on your central nervous system.
Most commonly occurring during the withdrawal phase, they can also manifest after particularly heavy drinking sessions. Once you’ve decided to stop drinking alcohol, it’s important to meet with your doctor. He or she can guide you toward the safest, most comfortable, and most effective plan for your sobriety. Alcohol abuse affects your physical and mental health, so it’s important to be guided by someone who knows your medical history. Your doctor may personally oversee your alcohol withdrawal, or he or she may refer you to an inpatient or outpatient treatment facility.
Other Ways to Reduce Body Tension
Treatment shouldn’t only address physical symptoms but also cater to emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs. Dryuary is right around the corner, and there are countless free or low-cost programs on-line to offer support and guidance to anyone wanting to take an alcohol time-out. Not drinking at all, for at least a month, is the best way to see how alcohol is affecting your life, and to decide whether it’s worth it.