8 Min Read
Alcohol withdrawal can have many different side effects that impact your body. One side effect of alcohol withdrawal is changes to blood pressure.
This article will highlight the impact alcohol withdrawal can have on blood pressure, both high and low.
You will learn the signs and symptoms to look for, as well as how to monitor yourself in a safe manner from home. This article will also help you seek professional help for alcohol use if needed.
Key Facts
The following are key points or facts to take away from this article:
- Alcohol and Blood: How alcohol use impacts your blood pressure
- How to stay safe during withdrawal and when to seek emergency care
- Timeline of quitting and the benefits you’ll notice with your blood pressure
- Managing your blood pressure during long term recovery
- How to find a treatment center near you
Nearby Alcohol Rehab Centers
Loading visitor information…
Alcohol Withdrawal & Blood Pressure: The Essentials
Can Alcohol Raise Your Blood Pressure?
The short answer is yes; alcohol can raise your blood pressure. Those with cardiovascular disease or other health conditions may experience larger impacts on their blood pressure even with moderate alcohol use.
Chronic or heavy use of alcohol can lead to a risk of developing hypertension. If you have health concerns such as diabetes or a history of strokes, you may be more sensitive to the impact of alcohol on your blood pressure.
This can cause your blood pressure to rise when consuming moderate or heavy amounts of alcohol.
Does Alcohol Lower Your Blood Pressure?
Drinking alcohol can lead to increased blood flow, which can cause a temporary and short lived decrease in blood pressure, which is known as post drink vasodilation. This happens almost immediately as you start to consume alcohol.
Over time, this can be harmful for continued blood pressure control due to fluctuations between highs and lows.
It is also not considered a viable option or strategy for lowering your blood pressure because these fluctuations are only temporary.
Why Withdrawal Can Spike Blood Pressure
One of the dangerous side effects of withdrawing from alcohol is the spike in blood pressure.
Your body is going through autonomic hyperactivity during the early stages of withdrawal, which causes elevated blood pressure, a racing heart rate and anxiety. Withdrawal related hypertension is usually transient but can be dangerous.
In addition to withdrawal, other triggers can cause elevated blood pressure, including dehydration, poor sleep, pain, caffeine and nicotine.
Call A Treatment Provider
For a conversation about what treatment options are available to you.
Make a Call
800-985-8516
Sponsored Helpline
Safety During Withdrawal (What to do, When to Get Help)
Danger Signs & When to Seek Urgent Care
Withdrawing can be scary to experience. You should speak with a trained professional before you start the withdrawal process. It is important to understand danger signs and know when to seek medical care.
Some red flags include severe headache, chest pain, vision changes, confusion, seizures and a blood pressure of ≥180/120. It is equally important to monitor symptoms of hypertension because they can lead to a heart attack.
Some of these symptoms can mirror signs of withdrawal, but hypertension can cause additional concerns, such as nose bleeds, shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue and palpitations.
Another major condition that can result from acute alcohol withdrawal is the risk of developing delirium tremens, also known as DTs. This causes body shakes or tremors, symptoms of psychosis and disorientation.
If you notice symptoms of hypertension or delirium tremens, call 911 or access emergency care as soon as possible.
Home Monitoring & Safety Plan (Including When Detox is Needed)
If you are monitoring your detox or withdrawal symptoms from home, it is important to check your blood pressure correctly. Make sure you are seated with your back supported and use the right size cuff.
It is important to log it twice a day in a journal or in the notes app on your smartphone.
Additionally, it is important to avoid caffeine and nicotine for at least 30-60 minutes prior.
If you have a history of severe withdrawal, high baseline blood pressure, limited support or major comorbidities, you might need to receive inpatient medical detox to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
Home detox should only be performed after speaking with a trained professional to determine if it is safe and to create a withdrawal plan.
Timeline: Blood Pressure During & After Quitting Alcohol
First 72 Hours: What BP Swings to Expect
The first 72 hours are known as the peak withdrawal window. You could experience fluctuating blood pressure, tremors, anxiety and insomnia. These symptoms typically occur 24-72 hours after you quit drinking. During this phase, it is important to stay hydrated, rest and have scheduled checks to monitor your blood pressure.
If your blood pressure readings are abnormal or your symptoms worsen, seek medical care. Consider having a friend or family member stay with you during this period to help monitor symptoms and help you seek emergency care if needed.
Blood Pressure After Quitting Alcohol (Week 1–4 and Beyond)
Many people notice improvements in blood pressure within the first week and start to feel their symptoms getting better, though responses will vary. If you are a heavy drinker, improvements are typically seen within 2-4 weeks.
Beyond the stabilization phase, there is an advantage to abstaining from alcohol use. Not only does it help with blood pressure reduction, but it can also help with any cardiovascular risks that you might experience.
It is important to remember that abstinence is the best option for blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.
Does Quitting Alcohol Lower Blood Pressure?
What the Evidence Shows & How Long it Takes
Reducing or stopping alcohol use lowers blood pressure in a dose dependent manner. If you stop drinking altogether, you might notice a lower blood pressure faster than someone who reduces their drinking.
However, the biggest effect has been shown in those with heavy use. Many people will see improvements within weeks. Assessment of your blood pressure should be done at different times each day to ensure an accurate average of what your blood pressure is.
What Affects Your Results
Several factors can influence your blood pressure, especially in alcohol withdrawal. It is important to gather a baseline reading before starting the withdrawal process to adequately monitor for changes.
Other factors that can impact your blood pressure include your sodium intake, weight, medication usage, sleep quality and your level of physical activity.
It is important to coordinate with a medical prescriber to make any medication adjustments that might be needed as blood pressure readings improve.
Call A Treatment Provider
For a conversation about what treatment options are available to you.
Make a Call
800-985-8516Sponsored Helpline
Long Term BP Management in Recovery
The Lifestyle Stack + Follow-Up Plan
In addition to abstaining from alcohol use, lifestyle changes can have a huge impact on your blood pressure and your overall health.
For example:
- Try different eating habits, such as the DASH method. This includes eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grain foods and lean protein.
- This method of eating has been known to lower blood pressure and improve overall health.
- Try engaging in aerobics, resistance or other forms of physical activity.
- You might also want to set healthy weight goals for yourself.
- Limit your sodium intake to <1,500-2,300 mg/day.
- Continue to abstain from alcohol use or have medically appropriate limits.
- Schedule follow ups with your medical providers and continue with your at home blood pressure logs.
Alcohol & Blood Pressure FAQs
Yes, alcohol use can raise your blood pressure. This happens due to sympathetic stimulation. It is also connected to vascular and hormonal changes. There are more risks associated with higher levels of alcohol use.
It is best to limit or avoid alcohol use altogether for ultimate blood pressure control. If you have other health issues in addition to blood pressure problems, using alcohol can make them worse.
It can lower your blood pressure, but it is only for a moment after a drink.
This is not a safe or recommended method of lowering blood pressure. Long term use of alcohol can raise your blood pressure and put you at risk of developing other medical issues. Drinking alcohol to lower blood pressure is not a recommended strategy for the treatment of hypertension.
Within the first week, many will start to notice a difference.
However, most people, especially those with heavy alcohol use, will start to notice a change within 2-4 weeks. To help keep track of your progress, it is considered best practice to keep a log and share patterns with your clinician to help guide medication decisions.
Oftentimes, your blood pressure will improve when you stop drinking.
If you take any blood pressure medications, it is important to have your blood pressure monitored for changes and have a medical provider evaluate your condition before making any dose adjustments. Never change your medications without first consulting with your doctor.
Find Treatment Near You
If you are dealing with an alcohol use disorder, you might want to consider treatment. You can find treatment centers at Rehab.com that best fit your needs.
There, you can investigate:
- Programs that is in your desired location.
- Programs with your needed level of care.
- Programs with any special programs that you might be interested in.
Always check with a trained healthcare professional before attempting at home detox, depending on your circumstances, a supervised medical detox may be necessary.
Not sure where to start? Call
800-985-8516
( Sponsored Helpline )
today to talk to someone about your treatment options and see if your insurance will cover rehab.
Loading rehab centers now…
Top Rated Centers for Alcohol Addiction Treatment
| Name / Address / Rating | Description | Treatments / Payments / Programs | Review / Contact | Images | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Avenues Recovery Center at Lake ArielAd This is an ad and Avenues Recovery Center at Lake Ariel is a paid advertiser. Paid advertisers may be listed first in search results. This ad may contain content provided by the advertiser. Rehab.com does not verify ad content or any reviews that are displayed. Learn More Lake Ariel, PA  Claimed | Clients seeking treatment for alcohol addiction may be required to undergo detox first. As one of the best detox facilities in Pennsylvania, the process at Avenues Recovery Center ensures any abused substances are out of a client’s system and that they are in a healthy frame of mind when they enter residential treatment. Detox is overseen and | Treatments Programs Payment Options  Substance Abuse Alcoholism Drug Addiction Mental Health And Substance Abuse Dual Diagnosis  Adult Program  Private Insurance Self-Pay Options Military Insurance | View Website (570) 354-6060 | 
Amazing place! Totally worth it!
Megann
1 week ago
Excellent facility fabulous staff!
amy knorr
1 week ago
This is truly an amazing facility! Every single person I’ve encountered is absolutely wonderful. The staff are incredibly kind, caring, and knowledgeable, groups are fun & informative, and the housing and food are excellent. There’s an amazing sense of community and I 1000% recommend.
Irene Sweeney
2 weeks ago
| 
5 5 
|
1
Top 10 Rehab in FL
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
9.67 / 10 Claimed | All In Solutions Wellness Center is a treatment facility located in West Palm Beach, Florida. This facility specializes in treating adults who are struggling with co-occurring disorders and addiction. The levels of care offered here are detox, residential, and aftercare programs. As one of the best-rated detox centers in Florida, All In Solutions | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionMental Health And Substance Abuse Opioid AddictionSubstance AbuseDual Diagnosis Adult Program Program For Men Program For Women Young Adult Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay Options | 
My experience at All In Solutions exceeded my expectations. I was treated with respect, honor and dignity. I was kept comfortable while detoxing.
Timothy Snow
1 week ago
My wife completed residential treatment here for alcohol addiction and the change has been remarkable. Family therapy sessions helped all of us understand how to support her moving forward.
Rosalind Actongale
2 weeks ago
Attentive medical staff during detox, comfortable rooms, board-certified providers who explain everything clearly.
Tobias Kingsley
2 weeks ago
| 
5 5 
| |
1
Top 10 Rehab in TN
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
9.64 / 10 | Recovery Unplugged Nashville Drug & Alcohol Rehab is a private luxury addiction treatment center located just south of Nashville, in Brentwood, Tennessee. They offer several levels of care, including medication assisted treatment (MAT), residential treatment and behavioral telehealth. Adults with dual diagnoses and substance use disorders are welco | Treatments Programs Payment Options Substance AbuseAlcoholismDrug AddictionDual Diagnosis Adult Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay Options Medicare MedicaidMilitary Insurance | 
This place helped me save my own life. I couldn’t recommend a company more.. especially in a dire situation. They are family.
Michelle Aspen
1 day ago
What an amazing place to save your life!
Rich Stadtlander
3 days ago
Help my family out wonders!
Torey Tennyson
3 days ago
| 
5 5 
| |
1
Top 10 Rehab in CA
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
9.61 / 10 Claimed | All In Solutions Detox in Simi Valley is one of the best ranked inpatient detox facilities in California providing safe, medically supervised care for individuals beginning their recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. As part of the All In Solutions Behavioral Health network, this facility serves as the first step in a full continuum of care. Cli | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionMental Health And Substance AbuseOpioid AddictionSubstance AbuseDual Diagnosis Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramProgram For MenProgram For Women Private InsuranceSelf-Pay Options | 
This facility has been amazing. The staff is great and the program is also great
Michael Miller
2 days ago
Awesome staff and great facilities. All my needs were met and they got me on the road to recovery.
Brian Mckinney
1 week ago
Everything here was really great. The stars and medical team was very helpful. I left here with a new life
Lucas Deters
2 weeks ago
| 
5 5 
| |
Avenues Recovery Center at ClarksvilleAd This is an ad and Avenues Recovery Center at Clarksville is a paid advertiser. Paid advertisers may be listed first in search results. This ad may contain content provided by the advertiser. Rehab.com does not verify ad content or any reviews that are displayed. Learn More Clarksville, IN Claimed | Avenues Recovery Center in Clarksville, Indiana, is an inpatient drug and alcohol detox and rehab center. They strive to provide individuals receiving treatment with a loving environment and attentive medical care. You’ll be away from toxic environments and triggers and have the opportunity to focus on developing life skills that will support you | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismMental Health And Substance AbuseDrug AddictionOpioid AddictionSubstance AbuseDual DiagnosisMental Health Adult ProgramYoung Adult Program LGBTQ Program Military Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMedicaidMilitary Insurance | View Website (930) 203-1947 | 
Avenues Recovery center is a very good place love the staff love the facilitators love the case managers there’s a lot of good help here I am still involved with the alumi meetings I just love how were family love you avenues recovery center
Joshua Levi Johnson
1 day ago
Avenue staff was exceptionally considerate to all of my needs. Highly recommend if your truly searching for recovery.
Janezee Leezy
1 day ago
Really good place to go to
Angela Mccausland
1 day ago
| 
4 
|
1
Top 10 Rehab in VA
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
9.45 / 10 | Recovery Unplugged offers a full suite of outpatient substance use recovery for adults and adolescents in the DC Metro area of Annandale, Virginia. They offer general outpatient and top-rated intensive outpatient care (IOP) alongside partial hospitalization programs (PHP). Each of these levels of care may incorporate medication-assisted treatment ( | Treatments Programs Payment Options Substance AbuseAlcoholismDrug AddictionDual Diagnosis Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramLGBTQ Program Teen Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMedicareMedicaid | 
I have been in and out of treatment for 15 years, and this is by far the best recovery center I have ever been to. The staff genuinely care about every client and their well-being. They aren’t just out for money or treating people like another number—they truly want to see you heal, grow, and succeed. I have felt supported, understood, and cared for throughout my time here. Recovery is not easy, but this center has given me hope and the tools I need to build a better life. I’m incredibly grateful for this place and would recommend it to anyone who is ready to make a change.
Tara R.
2 weeks ago
I would not be where I am today without the help of Recovery Unplugged. I had two 30 day visits with them back in 2019 before moving on to a 90 program in Arizona. Everyone was friendly and you felt like you actually mattered. The musical component of it all was life changing and is still a huge support in my life today. It’s outside of the box recovery and if you are looking for a place to start, this is it. I’m coming on six years of sustained recovery and now hold a masters in divinity while thriving in Tucson. AZ. None of this would have been possible without Recovery Unplugged and I could not be more grateful for all they provided in early recovery.
Jay Newman
1 month ago
The program and support is great, but once you finish no resources are provided. No follow-up with patients. They are all about profit. The providers can’t even provide outside resources. This should be a warning sign they are out to make money.
Jamie Guy
3 months ago
| 
5 5 
| |
1
Top 10 Rehab in NJ
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
9.41 / 10 Claimed | All In Solutions Counseling Center is a mental health and addiction clinic in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. They provide outpatient addiction treatment and mental health care. They offer options like an intensive outpatient program, a partial hospitalization program, and medication-assisted treatment. All In Solutions Cherry Hill Drug & Alcohol Reha | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionDual DiagnosisOpioid AddictionSubstance AbuseMental Health And Substance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramProgram For MenProgram For Women Private insuranceSelf-Pay Options | 
The clinical building being separate from the housing is a detail that sounds small but makes a big practical difference. You go there to work, and you come back to somewhere calmer when the day is done. That separation gave the whole experience a clearer shape.
Brian Saunders
2 weeks ago
Friday afternoons they bring in alumni speakers. Sitting in a room listening to someone who’s been through it and come out the other side is different from any group session with a counselor. It was one of the parts of the week I genuinely looked forward to.
Thomas Navarro
2 weeks ago
The weekly family group, held online so family can join from wherever, is something I wasn’t expecting. My family had been through a lot and being able to include them in the process, even from a distance, changed how I felt about what I was doing here. Recovery doesn’t happen in a bubble and a program that actually acknowledges that is worth noting.
William Foster
3 weeks ago
| 
4 
| |
1
Top 10 Rehab in TX
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
9.39 / 10 | Symetria – Hurst Outpatient Rehab and Suboxone Clinic in Hurst, Texas, is a private drug rehabilitation clinic for adults. One of the best outpatient rehab centers in Texas, Symetria offers various withdrawal medications to help clients get started with their recovery journey. You’ll also have access to treatments such as the intensive outp | Treatments Programs Payment Options Substance AbuseAlcoholismOpioid Addiction Adult ProgramYoung Adult Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMedicareMilitary Insurance | 
Symetria is like a second family for me now and Mrs. Debrah , who runs the center is always awesome and also Mrs. Callie is my counselor and a great one at that! Come to Symetria if you need help you’re not alone they will treat you like your one of them. And the front desk lady Michelle is so sweet that she won’t let you miss a does so she calls every patient everyday in case you forgot so u don’t suffer!
Krystina Hubbell
2 weeks ago
I have been in the DARKEST place for so long. Symetria was my saving grace. My counselor Callie (my saving grace) showed me that I actually really do matter and gave me a sense of belonging for the FIRST time in my life! She truly cares and has helped me in so many ways that I can’t thank her enough. If it weren’t for her, I’m not sure where I’d be in life right now without her. Ms Callie, if you see this, thank you again. To all of the concerned mothers/fathers out there, I promise you, this is the best methadone clinic in the United States. Thank you for taking the time to read my comment, I promise I wouldn’t steer you the wrong direction. <3 Please take into consideration coming to Symetria. I finally have hope.
Madi Murphy
1 month ago
This place is great. The entire staff had always been excellent
bryan harris
2 months ago
| 
5 5 
| |
1
Top 10 Rehab in NY
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
9.39 / 10 | This facility offers leading outpatient addiction treatment, recovery coaching, and medication-assisted treatment for adults. Through an intensive outpatient program or an outpatient program, participants engage in individual and group therapy that helps get to the root of addiction and relapse prevention skills. Outpatient support groups allow you | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionSubstance AbuseOpioid Addiction Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramLGBTQ ProgramTeen Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay Options Sliding Scale Payment Assistance Financing | 
As a family member, I cannot say enough wonderful things about Mountainside Treatment Center in Huntington. From the very beginning, the staff treated both our loved one and our family with compassion, respect, and genuine care during an incredibly difficult time.
The communication throughout the process was thoughtful and professional, and it was clear that everyone involved truly wanted the best possible outcome. Mountainside provides best-in-class treatment in a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment. Knowing our loved one was in such caring and capable hands gave us comfort and hope when we needed it most.
We are deeply grateful for the support, guidance, and dedication of the entire team. Highly recommend.
Adriana Popa
4 months ago
Going to Mountainside in Huntington was a life changing experience. I could not recommend it more!
Violet White
1 year ago
As a clinical social worker running a local group practice, I regularly collaborate and refer clients to Mountainside Treatment Center. Their staff has always been exceptional, especially Courtney Hulse and Dan Sexton, who go above and beyond in tailoring their treatment plans for each client and family. Mountainside serves as a tremendous resource, providing quality substance abuse treatment that is critically needed here on Long Island. We are enthusiastic about continuing to work with Mountainside to best serve our community and families. Thank you for all you do Mountainside. Highly recommend!
Gordon Gooding
2 years ago
| 
4 
| |
1
Top 10 Rehab in MD
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
9.38 / 10 | Bracebridge Hall is an inpatient facility located in Earleville, Maryland under the umbrella of Recovery Centers of America. It’s on 560 acres with a view of the Sassafras River. They offer substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and mental health treatment for co-occurring disorders. They accept and are in network with most major insurance plan | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionDual DiagnosisMental Health and Substance AbuseOpioid AddictionSubstance Abuse Adult ProgramMilitary ProgramYoung Adult ProgramLGBTQ Program Private insuranceSelf-Pay Options Financial AidSliding Scale Payment AssistanceMilitary InsurancePrivate InsuranceMedicaidMedicare+1 | 
RCA and its facilitors were exceptional. Intake and discharge was streamlined and efficient. A variety of flexible groups and speakers were scheduled weekly. Educational classes regarding medications and planning for discharge are also available. The facility provides lesiure activities such as fishing, recovery walks, and a gym. Facility was well maintained and clean. A variety of meals are offered for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a night snack. Substitute protein options are also available. RCA will meet and exceed expectations and provide all one needs for a successful recovery.
Juan Najera
1 day ago
My stay at RCA Bracebridge was truly life-changing. This was my first experience in rehab, and I honestly didn’t know what to expect, but it exceeded everything I could have imagined.
The groups were both educational and life-changing, providing valuable knowledge and tools that I can carry with me throughout my recovery. The staff were exceptionally supportive, caring, and informative. It was comforting to know that someone was always there whenever I needed help or support.
My therapist, Jessica V., is amazing, and I will never forget her. Mr. Dan, Mike H., Mrs. Jessie, and Mrs. Amber were also incredibly supportive and generously shared their knowledge and experience, which made a meaningful difference in my recovery.
The RSS staff were outstanding, and words cannot fully express my gratitude for everything they did. The kitchen staff, especially Eric, went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and had what we needed. That support allowed us to focus on what mattered most—our recovery.
Mr. Tariq always listened and showed genuine care and compassion toward the clients. His kindness and willingness to be there for us meant a lot.
I will forever be grateful to RCA Bracebridge for helping save my life and giving me the coping skills and tools I need to continue recovering one day at a time. I am leaving with gratitude, hope, and a renewed commitment to my recovery. Thank you to everyone who played a part in this journey
Shawnda
1 day ago
RCA gave me the confidence and tools to live the life of sobriety. Im truly grateful for everyone involved in my treatment there and the compassion and understanding of my treatment. I cant truly describe the gratefulness I have for this facility that has changed my life.
Jerry Chandler
2 days ago
| 
5 5 
|
