How to Detox Alcohol
Alcoholism can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and liver disease. The decision to stop drinking is often needed to reverse these consequences and improve physical health.
It is best to detox from alcohol under medical supervision, especially if you have medical conditions that could be worsened by alcohol withdrawal, or if you've suffered seizures due to alcohol withdrawal in the past.
Stage 1
The first step is to detox in recovery from alcohol abuse. The process is medically monitored and aims to offer relief from the psychological and physical effects of drinking for a long time. During the detox process, patients may suffer withdrawal symptoms like nausea, headaches, anxiety and fatigue. In this stage the patient will undergo a complete medical assessment and tests on blood to determine the amount of substances in their system. The purpose of detoxification is to remove all alcohol and drugs from the body, and restore a healthy balance in the nervous system as well as the brain.
Alcohol is a serious problem for many people. It can cause serious health problems. There are other issues that are not as obvious like liver disease or cognitive dysfunction in addition to the obvious signs of alcoholism such as blackouts and hangovers. Addiction is mostly due to the changes in metabolism that occur when a person drinks alcohol frequently. These changes cause dependence and tolerance, resulting in an illusion of homeostasis. The symptoms of alcohol dependence could be fatal if not properly identified and treated.
The evaluation and stabilization stages of detox involve analyzing the patient's medical history and drug and alcohol use, as well as examining the person's home environment and lifestyle to get a better idea of their support systems. This information will enable the medical team to provide recommendations on the type and duration of the detox.
During this time, the medical team will administer medication that mimics the effects of drinking alcohol and helps reduce withdrawal symptoms. The medical team will also administer medications to treat any co-occurring disorders or general discomfort. The medications used in this stage could include antidepressants and benzodiazepines. These medications are usually given in the detox center or in a hospital and must be closely monitored by the medical staff.
Some individuals who seek out an addiction treatment program may also be enrolled in an addiction treatment program. This is a good idea because it allows the detoxification and treatment to work together and reduces the risk of Relapse.
Stage 2
During this time, the liver begins to transform dangerous chemical lipid-soluble compounds into less harmful, water soluble substances by using reactions like sulfation and glucuronidation, glutathione conjugation, and acetylation. These new compounds can be eliminated more easily from the body. This process is heavily dependent on the liver's cytochrome P450 system, and also dependent on nutrients. Foods that are right for you can help support this phase of detoxification which includes protein, vegetables, fruits and herbs. One example is milk thistle, which stimulates normal liver function and helps stages 1 and 2. It has been utilized for ages as a natural treatment option for liver problems.
Fiber is also important during this period, as it can prevent constipation and encourage bowel movements.
Stage 3
In this stage, alcohol withdrawal symptoms begin to get more severe. Seizures, hallucinations and extreme confusion are all possible. Delirium tremens, especially, are medical emergencies and could be life-threatening. Additionally, they could lead people to start drinking again and abandon their detox regimen. This is why it is crucial to be under the care of a qualified medical professional in the detox center during this phase.
In a detox that is medically monitored, the client's blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored to ensure that they are secure and at ease. There are benzodiazepines available, which are approved by the FDA to treat alcohol withdrawal seizures and Delirium of tremens. These drugs can be used to ease the discomfort caused by withdrawal symptoms like shaking or agitation. Additionally, a drug known as naltrexone could be prescribed to decrease alcohol cravings. The drug can be taken as a pill or administered by injection. The pill version of naltrexone can be available under the name ReVia and Depade, while the injectable form is known by the brand name Vivitrol.
Even after the detoxification process is completed, withdrawal symptoms can last for some days. In certain instances, they could persist for a longer time. alcohol home detox with them all the time of their lives, based on the severity of the addiction and the length of time they've been drinking.
The first step in the recovery journey from alcohol addiction is to join a detox program. This could be an outpatient or inpatient, however the best choice is to find an addiction treatment program that provides around-the-clock medical supervision. Inpatient detox programs provide this in a hospital, center or clinic and are recommended for people with a severe addiction to alcohol. For those with moderate addictions, an outpatient program is an option that allows the client to continue living at home during their detox. The results of a detox program depend on how long the person has been abusing alcohol and the degree of dependence on it. The most severe alcoholism will have the longest and hardest detox time.
Stage 4
The symptoms aren't severe, but they must be watched closely. These symptoms usually begin within 6-8 hours of stopping drinking and include stomach discomfort and insomnia. They can also include mood swings, tremors, and fatigue. These are similar to symptoms of a hangover and should not be ignored.
As these symptoms subside more severe ones start to show. The second phase of AWS is characterized by a wide array of symptoms, such as hallucinations, fever, seizures and hand tremors. These symptoms are more hazardous and can be life-threatening. Certain people who are in this stage of withdrawal from alcohol might be suffering from delirium-tremens. This could be fatal if it is not treated correctly.
When these symptoms begin to ease and you'll be entering the last phase of withdrawal from alcohol. This is the most difficult stage and can take a considerable time to get through. Your body will release lots of toxins during this period and you could become dehydrated. You may also experience cravings, or even a Relapse.
In this period it is recommended to seek assistance from a rehabilitation center for addiction. Medical detox is beneficial for certain people but it does not address the underlying reasons of drug addiction. Drug rehabilitation programs can help you overcome the mental issues that lead to addiction to drugs.
Although detox can be a bit scary, it is vitally important for your recovery. Under the supervision of a qualified professional detox is an effective and safe way to eliminate alcohol or other drugs from your body. It can also help you prepare for rehab. It can also save your life, especially in the case of an addiction that threatens your life to alcohol or drugs. Contact a treatment specialist today to learn more about the detox process and how it will benefit your recovery. They'll be able to answer any questions you have and help you through the process of detox. They can also discuss longer-term options for treatment such as inpatient treatment, community support groups, or regular therapy sessions.