How to Detox Alcohol
Alcoholism can cause serious health issues, such as heart disease and liver disease. To reverse these effects it is usually necessary to stop drinking.
It is best to detox under medical supervision if you have a medical condition that can be aggravated by withdrawal or if withdrawal seizures have occurred in the past.
Stage 1
Detoxification is the very first step towards recovery from alcoholism. The process is monitored by a doctor and aims to offer relief from the physical and psychological consequences of drinking alcohol for a long period. During the detox process, patients might be afflicted by withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, anxiety, nausea and fatigue. In this stage the client will go through an extensive medical examination and tests for blood to determine the level of substances in their system. The aim of detox is to eliminate any drugs or alcohol from the body and restore an equilibrium to the nervous system and brain.
For a lot of people, alcohol is a major issue that causes serious health problems. There are home detox alcohol like liver disease or cognitive impairment as well as the obvious symptoms of alcoholism such as blackouts and hangovers. Addiction is primarily caused by changes in metabolism that occur when someone drinks alcohol regularly. These changes cause tolerance and dependence, creating false homeostasis. Alcohol dependence symptoms can be fatal if not treated and diagnosed properly.
The evaluation and stabilization stages of detox include assessing the patient's medical history as well as drinking and drug use as well as looking at the person's home environment and lifestyle to gain a better understanding of their support systems. This information will assist the medical team to make recommendations about the type and duration of their detox.
In this phase the medical team will administer medications that mimic the effects of alcohol, and will reduce withdrawal symptoms. They will also administer other medications to treat any co-occurring disorders or general discomfort. The drugs used in this stage are usually taken orally and may include antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and sedatives. These drugs are usually administered in a detox or hospital treatment center and must be supervised closely by medical professionals to prevent dangerous side effects, such as seizures.
A few people who are enrolled in the detox program are also enrolled in an addiction treatment program. This is a great idea because it allows the detoxification and treatment to co-exist and decreases the chance of the possibility of relapse.
Stage 2
During this phase it is when the liver begins to transform dangerous lipid-soluble chemicals into less harmful water-soluble substances through reactions like sulfation and glutathione conjugation and acetylation. These new compounds are removed more easily from the body. This process is dependent upon the liver's cytochrome P450 enzyme system, and is also heavily dependent on nutrients. Protein, vegetables, fruit, and herbs can all help in this stage of detoxification. Milk thistle is a great example. It improves the normal liver functions and aids in stages 1 and 2. It has been extensively used as a natural treatment option for liver problems.
Fiber is also essential during this time, as it can prevent constipation and aid in bowel movements.
Stage 3
During this phase during this time, the severity of withdrawal symptoms begins to increase. Seizures, hallucinations and extreme confusion are all possible. Delirium tremens, especially can be medical emergencies and could be life-threatening. Additionally, they could cause people to begin drinking again and give up on their detox programs. This is why it is essential to be under the care of a qualified medical professional at a detox facility during this phase.
In a medically-supervised detox, the client's heart rate and blood pressure are monitored to ensure their safety and security. There are benzodiazepines available, which are approved by the FDA to treat alcohol withdrawal seizures and the delirium tension. They can be used to ease the discomfort that is caused by other withdrawal symptoms like agitation or tremors. A drug called naltrexone may also be prescribed to reduce alcohol dependence. The drug is available as pills, or it can be administered via injection. The pill version of naltrexone is available under the name ReVia and Depade, while the injectable form is known by the brand name Vivitrol.
It is not uncommon for withdrawal symptoms to last a few weeks even after the detox process is completed. In some instances they can last longer. Some people struggle with them throughout their lives, based on the severity of the addiction and how long they've been drinking.
The first step to recovery from alcoholism is to enroll in an alcohol detoxification program. It can be an inpatient or outpatient program, but it is best to select a detox center that offers 24/7 medical supervision. Inpatient detox programs can be found in a hospital or clinic setting. They are suggested for those suffering from severe alcohol dependence. Outpatient programs are available for those with moderate alcohol dependence. They permit the patient to live at home while they undergo detox. The results of a detox program will depend on the length of time the person has been abusing alcohol and their level of dependence on it. Those with the most severe alcohol addiction are likely to have the longest and most difficult detox process.
Stage 4
The symptoms are mild but still need to be monitored. They are usually noticed within the first six to eight hours after you stop drinking, and they may include stomach discomfort as well as mood swings, insomnia fatigue and tremors. These are similar to symptoms of a hangover and should not be ignored.
As the symptoms ease, more severe ones start to show. The second phase of AWS produces a wide range of symptoms, including hallucinations seizures, fever and hand tremors. These are more dangerous than the previous symptoms and can cause serious life-threatening problems. Certain people who are in this stage of detox may suffer the delirium tremens syndrome, which can be deadly if not treated correctly.
Once these symptoms start to ease and you'll be entering the final phase of alcohol withdrawal. This is the most difficult phase and will take a long time to get through. Your body will produce a lot of toxins during this period and you could be dehydrated. You may also be experiencing cravings, or the possibility of a return.
In this period, you should continue seeking help at a treatment center for addiction. Medical detox is beneficial for certain people but it does not address the underlying reasons of drug addiction. Drug rehabilitation programs are necessary to address the psychological issues that often lead to addiction and abuse of substances.
Although detox can be a bit scary and stressful, it is crucial to your recovery. Under the supervision of a qualified professional, detox can be an effective and secure method to eliminate alcohol or other drugs from your body. It can also prepare you for rehab. It could also save your life, especially if you are suffering from an addiction that threatens your life to alcohol or drugs. Get in touch with a treatment specialist today to find out more about the process of detoxification and how it can aid your recovery. They will be able to answer any questions you might have and assist you with the process of detox. They can also discuss long-term options for treatment, like inpatient treatment, community support groups, or regular therapy sessions.