An alcohol-related diagnosis is typically followed by a journey to an alcohol detox centre. What happens during this process?
This guide will walk you through the three phases associated with the process of detoxification. It includes withdrawal symptoms, how they occur, the substances used to treat them, the medicines that are utilized to reduce cravings and resources for self-care once you arrive at the facility. It also contains some specifics about what to expect when leaving the alcohol detox facility.
The effects of alcohol on the mind & Body
Alcohol is enjoyed by people throughout the world for centuries , and indulged in by many who believe it will ease anxiety or stress caused by the stress of modern life.
There’s no treatment for alcoholism. However, it is important to detox from it in order to achieve sobriety. The objective for a person who is suffering from alcohol withdrawal is to not only rid their system of any alcohol, but also to discover ways to continue to stay abstinence in the future.
Difficulty in Alcohol Detox
Many who are addicted to alcohol find it difficult to quit drinking, even when they are fully aware of the negative consequences.
The withdrawal symptoms of alcohol can be severe. These can include seizures and delirium tremens (DTs). This could be a life-threatening situation that often requires hospitalization. There are those who experience hallucinations and psychosis as they withdraw, which can be life-threatening if not treated by a medical professional.
Persons at high danger of developing DTs should not attempt to detox on their own. It is also recommended to avoid changing between care levels unless they are advised by a doctor. The detox process should only be conducted in a controlled , safe environment like an alcohol detox facility. Patients receive continuous help and supervision.
Three phases of detoxification from alcohol are typical: Withdrawal (PAWS) protracted withdrawal (PAWS) or withdrawal.
The first two phases usually last for about a week while the third phase can be prolonged for some time after the alcohol user stops drinking. The signs of PAWS include cravings, mood swings, sleep issues, fatigue concentration difficulties and irritation. Many former alcoholics must change their lifestyles to deal with the symptoms they experience as they seek assistance from support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and/or psychotherapy.
Understanding Alcohol Detox Phases: A Timeline
When you stop drinking, it is possible to experience post-acute withdrawal signs (PAWS) within a few hours. The condition could last as long as a couple of weeks.
The first stage of alcohol detox lasts from 2 to 3 days and is characterized by intense psychological withdrawal symptoms such insomnia, anxiety, and depression. The withdrawal symptoms generally subside within 48 hours (in some cases they may last for up to five days). This is when the physical aspect of detox starts. Individuals in the process of detoxing from alcohol may have nausea or tremors. But, these symptoms usually are only for a couple of hours at the most.
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The aim of an individual who is undergoing the process of detoxing from alcohol isn’t just to clear his or her body of any trace of alcohol, but also to learn how to maintain abstinence for the future. To ensure security, detox centers provide 24-hour surveillance and monitoring for patients.
Although withdrawal symptoms may be severe for some patients, they’re not typically dangerous if they are treated properly.
Following the completion of alcohol detox individuals who have been heavy drinkers usually undergo an “rehab” or post acute withdrawal stage that could last weeks or months following the cessation of drinking, depending on how quickly the person adjusts to life without alcohol. In this phase, they might continue experiencing physical symptoms of withdrawal, such as insomnia, insomnia, and concentration issues. Additionally, they’ll likely feel Alcohol cravings.
Treatment programs typically consist of sessions in a group with other recovering alcoholics and individual counseling sessions with a therapist certified in addiction therapy. The treatments have been shown to increase the recovery rate over time.
If someone is dependent on alcohol, they’ll experience withdrawal symptoms. This occurs after an intoxication period or a prescription medication. It is important for people who are trying to quit drinking to know the signs, symptoms , and consequences of withdrawal in order to minimize the dangers associated with stopping use abruptly. However, there could be people who require medical assistance in the course of detoxification, particularly if their addiction has gone for a long period of time.