Alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically develop following a prolonged period of heavy / daily drinking.

Withdrawal symptoms usually commence within 12 - 24 hours of ceasing or dramatically reducing alcohol consumption.

Most symptoms abate within 3 to 8 days. Some problems however, such as sleep disturbances, can persist for several weeks.

Tremulousness - this is one of the first symptoms to occur. The hands / arms are most often effected - tho' in some cases there may be violent shaking of the whole body.

Profuse sweating - this is particularly apparent at night. There may be alternating perceptions of feeling very hot and then very cold.

Nausea - this symptom is most common during the first 3 -4 days after stopping drinking. There is often a lack of appetite and vomiting may occur. A condition known as "dry heaves" may also occur. This involves constant retching without actually vomiting.

Anxiety - this is a very common feature of alcohol withdrawal. In some cases agoraphobic symptoms (- a fear of leaving home) and panic attacks may develop.

Hypertension - the blood pressure may rise during withdrawal and the pulse rate may also increase (tachycardia).

Craving - there is often an intense urge to use alcohol (and thereby reduce the severity of withdrawals).

Paranoid ideation - this involves the individual thinking that he/she is being watched, talked about or being followed.

Hallucinations - these are usually visual and often involve "seeing" insects or small animals. Occasionally auditory hallucinations (hearing "voices" or music) may also occur.

Grand mal seizures - these are epileptic-type fits that occur in the more severe cases of alcohol dependency. Research suggest that they are experienced by around 12% of dependent drinkers.

Insomnia - the sleep pattern may be disturbed for several weeks after stopping drinking.

Mood swings - feelings of sadness, irritability and agitation are common during alcohol withdrawal.

Delirium Tremens - this is a very severe form of alcohol withdrawal characterised by confusion, disorientation, delusions and hallucinations. Delirium tremens is regarded as a medical emergency requiring urgent hospital treatment.