**Core Concept**
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome involves neurophysiological dysregulation due to the sudden cessation of chronic alcohol use. Alcohol enhances GABAergic inhibition and inhibits glutamaterial excitation; withdrawal leads to hyperexcitability of the central nervous system, manifesting as autonomic and neuropsychiatric symptoms.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Alcohol withdrawal typically presents with autonomic hyperactivity, anxiety, restlessness, and hallucinations. Epileptic seizures (A) occur due to cortical hyperexcitability. Restlessness (B) and hallucinations (C) are hallmark features of the syndrome. Hypersomnolence (D), however, is not a feature — instead, patients are usually hyperaroused, not drowsy. This makes D the exception.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
Option A: Epileptic seizure is a recognized severe feature of alcohol withdrawal, especially in severe cases, due to neuronal hyperexcitability.
Option B: Restlessness is a common early symptom, reflecting central nervous system hyperexcitability.
Option C: Hallucinations (often visual) appear in moderate to severe withdrawal, especially in the 24–72 hour window.
Option D: Hypersomnolence is not a feature; patients are typically awake, agitated, or restless — the opposite of drowsy.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In alcohol withdrawal, patients are **hyperaroused**, not drowsy. Remember: **"Withdrawal = agitation, not sleepiness"** — hypersomnolence is a red flag for other conditions like delirium tremens or metabolic encephalopathy.

✓ Correct Answer: D. Hypersomnolence