Alcohol is a highly addictive substance, and repeated misuse can lead to alcohol use disorder (AUD)—a chronic brain condition where a person becomes physically and psychologically dependent on alcohol to function. One of the most visible and concerning signs of alcohol withdrawal is a condition known as alcohol shakes.
What Are Alcohol Shakes?
Alcohol shakes, also known as tremors, are involuntary muscle movements that typically affect the hands, arms, head, or legs. These tremors are a physical response to alcohol withdrawal and often indicate a deeper issue with alcohol dependence. When the effects of alcohol wear off, especially after prolonged or heavy drinking, the body reacts with symptoms like shaking. If you or someone you care about experiences these tremors, it could be a sign of serious addiction and should not be ignored.
When Do Alcohol Tremors Start?
Not everyone with AUD will experience tremors, but several factors influence the likelihood, including genetics, lifestyle, duration of use, and how much alcohol is typically consumed. Alcohol shakes tend to occur once the brain has become accustomed to high levels of alcohol and begins to depend on it to maintain a sense of “normal.” When alcohol is suddenly withheld, the nervous system becomes overstimulated, triggering tremors as a withdrawal response.
Long-term alcohol use disrupts neurotransmitter activity in the brain, slowing down the central nervous system. When alcohol is removed, the brain’s chemistry rebounds in a hyperactive state—leading to symptoms like shaking, anxiety, and even seizures in severe cases.
Fill out the form below and one of our admissions team members will reach out to you:
"*" indicates required fields
Additional Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Tremors are just one of many symptoms that can occur when someone stops drinking after prolonged use. Other withdrawal symptoms may include:
Nausea and vomiting
Headaches
Restlessness and irritability
Insomnia
Stomach issues (diarrhea, constipation)
Flu-like symptoms
Clammy skin
Cravings for alcohol
Fatigue and lethargy
These symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the severity of the addiction.
Are Alcohol Shakes the Same as Delirium Tremens?
While alcohol shakes and Delirium Tremens (DTs) are related, they are not the same. DTs is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that can occur in people with a long history of heavy drinking—especially those who stop abruptly or “cold turkey.” DTs may include intense tremors, confusion, hallucinations, insomnia, seizures, and even death if untreated. Although not all tremors indicate DTs, they can be an early warning sign. If you or someone you love shows signs of withdrawal tremors, it’s critical to seek professional medical help immediately.
How Can a Detox Center Help with Alcohol Tremors?
Quitting alcohol without medical support can be dangerous. If you’ve developed a physical dependence, sudden withdrawal can shock your body and trigger severe symptoms. That’s why medically supervised detox is the safest way to begin recovery.
At our licensed and accredited alcohol detox center, we provide 24/7 medical supervision, access to cutting-edge treatment tools, and a compassionate team of addiction specialists. Our goal is to help you safely remove alcohol from your system while minimizing discomfort and preventing complications like seizures or DTs.
Getting Help for Alcohol Shakes and Withdrawal
We offer alcohol detox programs across the U.S., making high-quality treatment both accessible and convenient. If you or a loved one is experiencing alcohol shakes or other withdrawal symptoms, don’t wait. Contact us today to secure a spot in one of our programs. We’ll guide you through the detox process and equip you with the tools to build a sober, healthy future.
Aftercare Support for Long-Term Recovery
Recovery doesn’t stop after detox. We’ll help you connect to ongoing care such as outpatient treatment, therapy, and support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. With the right aftercare plan, you can maintain sobriety and reduce the risk of relapse.
Call us today to begin your recovery journey. Help is available—reach out and take the first step.
