Alcohol Withdrawal vs. Hangover: How to Know the Difference & When It’s Dangerous

Most people can easily identify a hangover — the dehydration, the headache, the nausea. But what many don’t realize is that early alcohol withdrawal can look almost identical, especially for people who drink regularly.

This confusion can be dangerous. A hangover is uncomfortable, but alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening without medical monitoring.

This guide breaks down the real differences so you know what’s normal, what’s not, and when it’s time to seek professional help.

Why People Confuse Hangovers and Withdrawal

The symptoms overlap — and that’s the problem.

• Nausea

• Headaches

• Shakiness

• Fatigue

• Anxiety

People may assume they’re experiencing “a bad hangover,” when in reality, their body is entering alcohol withdrawal.

Here’s the key:
Withdrawal can happen even if you didn’t intend to quit drinking — missing a usual drinking time can trigger it.

What Is a Hangover?

A hangover is your body reacting to the toxic effects of alcohol after it has left your system. Typical causes include dehydration, stomach irritation, sleep disruption, and inflammation.

Common Hangover Symptoms

These usually begin 6–12 hours after your last drink:

• Headaches

• Nausea or vomiting

• Thirst and dehydration

• Sensitivity to light or sound

• Fatigue

• Irritability

• Mild shakiness

• Trouble concentrating

Hangovers are unpleasant, but they usually pass within 24–36 hours.

What Is Alcohol Withdrawal?

Alcohol withdrawal occurs when the body has become dependent on alcohol and its sudden absence triggers a rebound effect in the brain.

This results in overstimulation, stress hormone spikes, and nervous system instability.

Common Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal generally starts 6–48 hours after the last drink and may include:

• Tremors or shaking

• Anxiety or panic

• Sweating

• Rapid heart rate

• Insomnia

• Irritability

• High blood pressure

• Nausea and vomiting

Severe Withdrawal Symptoms

These require immediate medical attention:

• Hallucinations

• Seizures

• Confusion or disorientation

• Delirium tremens (DTs)

Withdrawal can escalate quickly — and can be fatal without medical help.

Hangover vs. Withdrawal: How to Tell Them Apart

The key distinction:

If symptoms improve with hydration and rest, it’s likely a hangover.
If symptoms worsen, last longer, or improve only if you drink — it’s likely withdrawal.

Who Is at Risk for Alcohol Withdrawal?

Withdrawal doesn’t only affect “heavy drinkers.” You may be at risk if:

• You drink daily or almost daily

• You drink every evening after work

• You binge drink on weekends

• You feel shaky in the morning

• You need a drink to feel “normal”

• You’ve experienced withdrawal before

Any level of dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

When Alcohol Withdrawal Becomes Dangerous

Certain symptoms are signs of severe, potentially life-threatening withdrawal:

• Hallucinations

• Seizures

• Confusion

• Extreme agitation

• Fever

• Very high blood pressure

• Irregular heartbeat

These are medical emergencies. Never attempt to detox from alcohol alone.

Why Medical Detox Is the Safest Choice

Alcohol withdrawal is unpredictable. Medical detox provides:

• 24/7 clinical monitoring

• Medication to prevent seizures

• Blood pressure and heart rate stabilization

• Anxiety and insomnia management

• Fluids and vitamin support

• Safe, comfortable symptom relief

• A controlled environment away from triggers

Detox is not just about stopping alcohol — it’s about keeping you safe while your body resets.

Alcohol Detox at Liberty Health Services 

Liberty Health Services provides a private, medically monitored detox environment in Derry, New Hampshire, designed to help you stabilize safely and begin your recovery with confidence.

Our clinical team offers:

• Personalized medical detox treatment

• Evidence-based withdrawal management

• Comfortable, supportive living spaces

• A compassionate, judgment-free atmosphere

• Ongoing support and discharge planning

Whether you’re experiencing early withdrawal or you’re unsure what’s happening, our team can guide you through the next steps.

You Don’t Have to Go Through Withdrawal Alone

Alcohol withdrawal can become dangerous quickly — but help is available.

Call Liberty Health Services 24/7

Your recovery can start today.
Your safety comes first.
And you never have to do this alone.