Can You Quit Drinking Alcohol Cold Turkey?

Quitting drinking alcohol “cold turkey,” or abruptly stopping alcohol consumption without medical supervision, can be dangerous for some people. Chronic heavy drinkers can experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms that range from mild to severe, depending on the severity of their alcohol use disorder. Mild withdrawal symptoms may include headaches, nausea, anxiety, and irritability, while severe symptoms can include seizures, delirium tremens, hallucinations, and even death.

For this reason, it is recommended that individuals seeking to quit drinking alcohol seek medical assistance, as a doctor can provide guidance and support during the detoxification process, as well as prescribe medication to help ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.