How to Detox Alcohol
Alcoholism can lead to serious health issues like liver disease and heart disease. To reverse the effects of alcohol it is often recommended to stop drinking.
It is recommended to detox from alcohol under medical supervision, especially if you have an illness that may be worsened by alcohol withdrawal or if you've had seizures due to alcohol withdrawal in the past.
Stage 1
Detox is the initial step in the recovery process from alcohol addiction. The medically supervised procedure is designed to ease the mental and physical effects of drinking for a long time. During the detox process, patients might experience withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, anxiety, nausea, shaking and fatigue. During this phase, the client will undergo a complete medical assessment and blood tests to determine the level of substances in their system. The purpose of detox is to eliminate any alcohol or drugs from the body and restore a healthy balance to the nervous system and brain.
For many, drinking alcohol is a major issue that can cause serious health issues. In addition to the obvious alcoholic symptoms, like hangovers and blackouts, there are also less noticeable issues, such as liver disease, cardiovascular diseases and cognitive impairment. Addiction is caused by the changes in metabolism that occur when someone consumes alcohol frequently. These changes lead to dependence and tolerance, which creates a false state of homeostasis. The symptoms of alcohol dependence can be fatal if they are not diagnosed and treated properly.
The evaluation and stabilization phases of detox involve assessing the patient's medical history as well as the use of alcohol and drugs, as well as examining the person's home environment and lifestyle to get a better understanding of their support structures. This information will aid the medical team in making recommendations regarding the kind of treatment and duration of their detox.
During this phase the medical team will administer medications that mimic the effects of alcohol and help reduce withdrawal symptoms. The medical team will also administer medication to treat any co-occurring disorders or general discomfort. The medications used during this stage can include antidepressants and benzodiazepines. These drugs are usually administered in a hospital or a detox treatment center and must be monitored closely by the medical staff to prevent dangerous side effects such as seizures.
Some people who choose a detox program will be enrolled directly into an addiction treatment program. This is a good option because it allows the detoxification and treatment to co-exist and decreases the chance of relapse.
alcohol detox center
During this time, the liver begins to convert harmful, lipid-soluble chemicals into less hazardous, water soluble substances using reactions like sulfation, glucuronidation, glutathione coupling, and acetylation. These new substances are easier to be eliminated from the body. This process is heavily dependent on the liver's cytochrome P450 system, and is also dependent on nutrients. Fruits, proteins, vegetables and herbs can all aid in this phase of detoxification. Milk thistle is an excellent example. It improves the normal liver functions and helps the phases 1 and 2. It has been utilized for ages as a natural remedy for liver issues.
In addition, it is essential to include fiber in your diet throughout this time as it can prevent constipation as well as aid in bowel movements.
Stage 3
At this point the withdrawal symptoms of alcohol begin to intensify. They may include hallucinations, seizures, and extreme confusion. Delirium tremens symptoms, in particular is medical emergencies and could be life-threatening. They can also cause people to stop detoxing and start drinking again. It is essential to be under the care of a medical professional at an establishment that offers detox during this phase.
During a medically-supervised detox, the blood pressure of the client and heart rate will be monitored to ensure that they are safe and comfortable. They can receive benzodiazepines which are FDA-approved for treating alcohol withdrawal seizures and Delirium tension. These medications can also be used to alleviate the discomfort that is caused by other withdrawal symptoms like agitation or tremors. In addition, a substance known as naltrexone could be prescribed to lessen the craving for alcohol. The drug is available in the form of a pill, or can be administered via injection. The pill version of naltrexone can be available under the name ReVia and Depade while the injectable form is known under the brand name Vivitrol.
Even after the detoxification process has been completed, withdrawal symptoms may last for a few days. In some instances they can last longer. Some people have to endure them as a daily struggle throughout their lives, based on the severity of their addiction and the length of time they've been consuming alcohol.
The first step in the process of healing from addiction to alcohol is to join a detox program. It can be an inpatient or outpatient program, however it is best to choose a detox center that offers 24/7 medical supervision. Inpatient detox programs are offered in a hospital or clinic setting. They are recommended for people with severe alcohol dependence. Outpatient programs are available for those with less severe alcohol addictions. They allow the patient to stay at home while they detox. The outcomes of a detox program will depend on how long the person has been consuming alcohol and their degree of dependence on it. Those with the most severe alcohol addiction will likely have the longest and most difficult time to complete the detox.
Stage 4
The symptoms of this stage of detox are typically mild however, they are essential to be observed. These symptoms usually begin within 6-8 hours after quitting drinking and include stomach discomfort and insomnia. They can also include mood swings, tremors, and fatigue. These symptoms are similar to a hangover and should not be ignored.
As symptoms ease they will be followed by more severe symptoms that will begin to show up. The second phase of AWS is marked by a variety of symptoms including hallucinations and fever. These are more dangerous than the earlier symptoms and could lead to life-threatening problems. Certain people who are in the midst of alcohol withdrawal may experience delirium-tremens. This can be fatal if not treated appropriately.
When these symptoms begin to diminish, you'll enter the final phase of alcohol withdrawal. This is the most difficult phase and can take a considerable time to complete. Your body will release a lot of toxins in this time and you could be dehydrated. You might also feel a craving, or perhaps the possibility of a Relapse.
During this time you should continue to seek help at a treatment center for drug addiction. Medical detox is beneficial for some but it does not tackle the root causes of addiction. Drug rehabilitation programs are required to overcome the psychological problems that can lead to addiction and abuse of substances.
Detox can be frightening and stressful, but it is vital to your recovery. If it is performed under the supervision of a qualified professional, it is an effective and safe method to remove drugs or alcohol from your body and prepare you for rehabilitation. It could save your life in the event of an extremely dangerous alcohol or drug addiction. Contact a treatment expert today to find out more about detoxification and how it can aid your recovery. They will be able to answer your questions you may have and assist you in the process of detox. They will also be able to inform you about long-term treatment options like inpatient treatment and community support groups, as well as regular therapy sessions.