How to Detox Alcohol
Alcoholism can trigger serious health problems such as heart disease and liver disease. To reverse the effects of alcohol it is usually necessary to stop drinking.
It is recommended to detox under medical supervision if you have an illness that could be aggravated by alcohol withdrawal, or if alcohol withdrawal seizures have occurred in the past.
Stage 1
The first step is to detox in the recovery process from alcohol addiction. The medically supervised process is designed to relieve the mental and physical effects of long-term drinking. During the withdrawal process, clients can experience headaches, anxiety and nausea. They may be tired. In this stage the patient will undergo a complete medical assessment and blood tests to determine the level of drugs in their system. The aim of detox is to eliminate any drugs or alcohol from the body and restore an appropriate balance to the brain and nervous system.
For many people, alcohol is a major problem that can cause serious health issues. There are less obvious issues such as liver disease and cognitive dysfunction as well as the obvious signs of alcoholism, such a blackouts and hangovers. Addiction is mostly due to the changes in metabolism that occur when a person consumes alcohol regularly. These changes cause dependence and tolerance, which creates a false sense of homeostasis. The signs of dependence on alcohol can be fatal if not correctly diagnosed and treated.
The evaluation and stabilization portion of detox involves assessing the patient's medical history, drug and alcohol consumption, as well as their home environment and lifestyle to know their support systems. This information will assist the medical team to make recommendations on the type and duration of their detox.
During this phase, the medical team will administer medications that mimic the effects of alcohol and reduce withdrawal symptoms. The medical team will also administer medications to treat any co-occurring disorders or general discomfort. The medications taken in this stage could include antidepressants and benzodiazepines. These medications are typically given in the detox center or in a hospital and are closely monitored by medical professionals.
Some individuals who seek out an addiction treatment program may also enroll directly into an addiction treatment program. This is a great idea, as it allows the detox and treatment procedures to co-exist and reduce the likelihood that the individual will relapse after their alcohol detox is over.
Stage 2
In this stage it is when the liver begins to transform dangerous lipid-soluble chemicals into less harmful, water-soluble substances through reactions like sulfation, glutathione conjugation, glucuronidation and acetylation. These new compounds are excreted more easily from the body. This process is heavily dependent on the liver's cytochrome P450 system, and is also dependent on nutrients. The right foods can support this phase of detoxification which includes protein, vegetables, fruits and other herbs. Milk thistle is a great example. It stimulates normal liver functions and aids in phases 1 & 2. It has been used as a natural remedy to treat liver problems for ages.
In addition, it is important to have fiber in your diet at this time since it can help prevent constipation and help with 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 a medical emergency and can be life-threatening. Additionally, they can cause people to begin drinking again and abandon their detox programs. This is why it is so important to be under the care of a trained medical professional at a detox facility during this phase.
When undergoing a medically-supervised detox, the client's heart rate as well as blood pressure will be checked to ensure their safety and security. They may receive benzodiazepines that are FDA-approved for treating alcohol withdrawal seizures and the delirium of tremens. They also help ease the discomfort associated with other withdrawal symptoms, such as agitation and tremors. Naltrexone is a medication that can be prescribed to treat alcohol dependence. The medication is available as pills, or it can be administered by injection. The pill version of naltrexone can be available under the brand names ReVia and Depade while the injectable version is marketed by the brand name Vivitrol.
Even after the detoxification process is completed, withdrawal symptoms can last for a few days. In certain instances they may last longer. Some people struggle with them every day of their lives, depending upon the severity of their addiction and the length of time they have been drinking.
The first step in the process of healing from alcohol addiction is to enroll in the detox program. It can be an inpatient or an outpatient program, however it is recommended to select one that provides 24/7 medical supervision. Inpatient detox programs offer this in centers, hospitals or clinic environment and are recommended for those with severe alcohol addictions. Outpatient programs are offered to those who have moderate alcohol dependence. They allow the patient to remain at home as they are detoxing. The outcomes of a detox program will depend on how long the person has been consuming alcohol and the degree of dependence. The most severe alcoholisms will be the most difficult and long detox time.
Stage 4
The symptoms of this stage of detox are usually mild however, they are important to be monitored. These symptoms usually begin within 6-8 hours after quitting drinking and include stomach discomforts and insomnia. They can also include mood swings, tremors and fatigue. These are similar to the symptoms of hangovers and should not be ignored.
As home detox from alcohol diminish, more severe ones will start to appear. The second phase of AWS is characterized by a wide array of symptoms, including hallucinations fever, seizures, agitation and hand tremors. These symptoms are more serious and could be life-threatening. Some people in this stage of alcohol detox may experience delirium tremens, which can be fatal if not treated correctly.
Once these symptoms begin to diminish, you'll enter the final phase of withdrawal from alcohol. This is the most crucial period, and it will take longer to get through. During this time your body will release a large amount of toxins and could become dehydrated due to this. You might also experience cravings, or even an Relapse.
During this period you should continue seeking treatment at a drug addiction treatment center. Medical detox can be beneficial for some people but it does not address the underlying reasons of addiction. Drug rehabilitation programs are necessary to overcome the psychological problems that can lead to addiction and abuse of substances.
Although detox can be a bit scary but it is essential to your recovery. Under the supervision of a professional detox is an effective and safe way to remove alcohol or drugs from your body. It can also help you prepare for rehab. It could also save your life, especially if you are suffering from an addiction that threatens your life to drugs or alcohol. Get in touch with a treatment professional today to learn more about the process of detox and how it can aid your recovery. They will be able to answer any questions you have and guide you through the process of detox. They can also talk about long-term options for treatment, like inpatient therapy, community support groups, or regular therapy sessions.