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Alcohol withdrawal causes shaking hands, lightheadedness.

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Symptoms: Lightheadedness, shaking hands, 3 times in last week, last 5-15 minutes total without any intervention, go away on own, could this be alcohol withdrawal?

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Category: Family Physician-GP
 32 Doctors Online

Yes the symptoms you have described are due to alcohol withdrawal. This occurs when after drinking continuously for many years the patient suddenly stops or reduces the quantity consumed significantly. These features develop within 6-48 hours after the reduction of alcohol and may last for 2- 7 days. The patient presents with the above-mentioned symptoms along with in certain cases leading up to seizures, Delirium tremens. Delirium tremens usually begins between 48 -96 hours after the last drink and lasts for 1-5 days.

In serious condition patient can have hallucinations that can visual, tactile, and auditory and needs immediate medical treatment. I would suggest you to get a complete physical examination and blood tests. This can be treated with medications such as Benzodiazepine Valium, Ativan, and Thiamine that can be started only on consultation with your doctor.


Dr. John Monheit
Category: Family Physician-GP
Experience: 
Residecny: North Colorado Family Medicine
Medical School: The Chicago Medical Center
Dr. John Monheit and 4 other Medical Specialists are ready to help you

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