Does alcohol use disorder cause seizure?

The brain adapts to regular alcohol exposure. When alcohol levels fall, the nervous system may become overactive, causing shaking, sweating, anxiety, confusion, or a seizure. A seizure can also have other causes, such as epilepsy, low blood sugar, head injury, infection, or medicine effects. Anyone who has a first seizure needs medical assessment; do not assume alcohol is the only explanation.

Move nearby hazards away, cushion the head, loosen tight clothing, and turn the person onto their side when possible. Do not restrain them, put anything in their mouth, or give food, drink, or medicine until they are fully alert. Note when the seizure begins and ends. A person who drinks heavily should not attempt unsupervised withdrawal; medical support can reduce serious risks.

Call emergency services for a first seizure, a seizure lasting several minutes, repeated seizures without recovery, injury, breathing difficulty, pregnancy, diabetes, or persistent confusion. Emergency assessment is also needed for hallucinations, severe agitation, high fever, or marked shaking after reducing alcohol, as these may indicate dangerous withdrawal.

Ask whether the seizure may be related to withdrawal or another condition, which tests are needed, and whether driving or other activities should pause. Discuss supervised withdrawal, medicines, follow-up, and support for alcohol use.