How to Detox Alcohol
Alcoholism can cause serious health issues like heart disease and liver disease. Quitting drinking is often necessary to reverse these negative effects and improve your physical health.
It is best to detox under medical supervision if you have an illness that could be made worse by alcohol withdrawal or if alcohol withdrawal seizures have occurred in the past.
Stage 1
Detoxification is the first step to recovery from alcoholism. The process is medically supervised and aims to offer relief from the physical and psychological effects of long-term alcohol consumption. During the withdrawal process, clients might experience anxiety, headaches and nausea. They may also feel fatigued. During this stage the patient will undergo an extensive medical exam and blood tests to determine the amount of drugs present in their system. The aim of detoxification is to eliminate all alcohol and drugs from the body, and restore a healthy balance within the nervous system as well as the brain.
For many people, alcohol is a serious issue that causes serious health problems. In addition to the obvious alcohol symptoms, like hangovers and blackouts, there are other less obvious issues, like cardiovascular diseases, liver disease and cognitive impairment. Addiction is due to the changes in metabolism that occur when a person drinks alcohol regularly. These changes cause tolerance and dependency, creating a false state of homeostasis. Alcohol dependence symptoms can be fatal if they are not diagnosed and treated properly.
The evaluation and stabilization phases of detox involve analyzing the patient's medical history and the use of alcohol and drugs, as well as examining the environment in which the patient lives and their lifestyle to gain a better understanding of their support systems. This information will enable the medical team to make recommendations about the type and duration for the detox.
During this phase the medical team will administer a medication that mimics the effects of alcohol consumption and decreases withdrawal symptoms. They may also prescribe other medication to address any issues that may be causing discomfort or co-occurring disorders. The drugs used in this phase are typically taken orally and could include antidepressants, benzodiazepines and sedatives. These medications are typically administered in a detox or hospital treatment center and must be supervised closely by medical personnel to be sure that there are no dangerous adverse effects like seizures.
A few people who are looking for detox programs may be enrolled directly into an addiction treatment program. This is a great idea as it allows the detox and treatment procedures to work in tandem and reduce the risk that a person will fall back into addiction after their alcohol detox is over.
Stage 2
In this stage, the liver begins to transform dangerous, lipid soluble chemicals into less harmful water-soluble substances through reactions like sulfation glutathione coupling, glucuronidation and acetylation. These new compounds are eliminated more easily from the body. This process is a result of the liver's cytochrome P450 enzyme system, and is also heavily dependent on nutrients. Foods that are right for you can help support this stage of detox, including protein as well as fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Milk thistle is a good example. It helps normal liver functions and helps stages 1 and 2. It has been utilized as a natural remedy to treat liver problems for ages.
Fiber is also important during this period, as it can prevent constipation and promote bowel movements.
Stage 3
During this phase when the severity of withdrawal symptoms begins to increase. Hallucinations, seizures and extreme confusion are all possible. Delirium tremens, especially is medical emergencies and could be life-threatening. In addition, they can cause people to begin drinking again and give up on their detox plans. This is why it's crucial to be under the guidance of a trained medical professional at the detox center during this phase.
When undergoing a medically-supervised detox the client's heart rate as well as blood pressure will be monitored to ensure their safety and security. They can receive benzodiazepines which are FDA-approved for treating alcohol withdrawal seizures and Delirium of tremens. These medications also help ease the discomfort associated with other withdrawal symptoms, like agitation and tremors. Naltrexone is a medication that can also be prescribed to help reduce alcohol addiction. The drug is available in the form of an oral pill, or may be administered via injection. The pill form of naltrexone is available in the names ReVia, Depade and Vivitrol.
Even after the detoxification process has been completed, withdrawal symptoms can last for some days. In some cases they can persist for a longer time. Some people have to deal with them throughout their lives, depending upon the severity of their addiction and how long they have been drinking.
The first step on the recovery journey from addiction to alcohol is to enroll in the detox program. This could be an outpatient or inpatient, but the best option is to find a detox program that has 24/7 medical supervision. Inpatient detox programs are available in a clinic or hospital setting. They are recommended for those suffering from severe alcohol dependence. For those who have moderate addictions, an outpatient program is an option that allows the client to continue living at home during their detox. The result of a detox program is contingent on the amount of time that a person has been abusing alcohol and the degree of dependence they are. The most severe alcoholisms will be the most difficult and long detox process.
Stage 4
The symptoms in this phase of detox tend to be mild but they are important to be monitored. These symptoms usually start within 6-8 hours of stopping drinking and include stomach discomfort and insomnia. They can also include mood swings, tremors, and fatigue. These symptoms are similar to those of a hangover and should not go unnoticed.
As these symptoms subside, more severe ones will start to appear. The second phase of AWS is marked by a variety of symptoms including hallucinations and fever. These are more dangerous than the previous symptoms and can cause life-threatening problems. Certain people who are at this stage of alcohol withdrawal may suffer from delirium-tremens. This could be fatal if not treated appropriately.
When these symptoms begin to ease and you'll be entering the final phase of alcohol withdrawal. This is the most crucial phase, and it will take longer to overcome. Your body produces tons of toxins during this period and you could be dehydrated. You may also experience cravings or even a return.
During this period, you should continue to seek treatment from a drug addiction treatment center. Medical detox can be beneficial for some however it doesn't solve the root causes of addiction. Drug rehabilitation programs are necessary to overcome the psychological problems that are often the cause of addiction and abuse of substances.
The process of detox can be a bit scary, but it is crucial to your recovery. Under the supervision of a qualified professional detox can be an effective and safe way to eliminate alcohol or other drugs from your body. It can help you prepare for rehabilitation. It could save your life if you have an incredibly dangerous drug or alcohol addiction. Contact private alcohol detox in treatment now to find out more information about the process of detox and how it will benefit your recovery. They are able to answer any questions you may have and help you through the process of detox. They can also talk to you about options for long-term treatment including inpatient care, community support groups or regular therapy sessions.