A visit to an alcohol detox centre is often needed following a diagnosis of alcoholism. What exactly happens during this procedure?
This guide takes readers through three stages of detox, including withdrawal signs and how long they last, medications to manage them, medication that help to avoid cravings, and also resources for self-care following the time the patient is at the detox center. It also contains some specifics about what to expect when leaving the alcohol detox facility.
The Physical and Mental Effects of Alcoholism on the mind and Body
Alcohol’s pleasure has been enjoyed in societies all over the globe for a long time. People indulge in it to ease anxiety and stress brought on from the stresses of everyday life.
There is no cure for alcoholism. But, it is essential to cleanse yourself of it so that you can move toward sobriety. The goal of a patient during an alcohol detox is not only to cleanse his or her system of all tracetraces of alcohol, but also be able to keep abstinence in the future.
It is difficult to Alcohol Detox
Many who are dependent on alcohol struggle to stop drinking, even being fully aware of the negative consequences.
The withdrawal symptoms from alcohol can be extremely severe. These can include seizures or delirium tremens (DTs). This could be a life-threatening situation that usually requires hospitalization. Some people may have hallucinations or psychosis as a result of withdrawal. This could be dangerous in the event that it is not handled by a qualified professional.
Anyone who is at risk of DTs shouldn’t attempt to detox on their own. They should also avoid switching from one level of care until they are medically required to do so. Detoxification is best done within a controlled and safe setting, such as an alcohol detox center where patients are able to receive continuous supervision and assistance.
Three phases of detoxification from alcohol are very common: Withdrawal (PAWS), protracted withdrawal (PAWS) or withdrawal.
The first two phases can last for approximately one week. The third phase is usually up to a few months after an alcoholic quits drinking. PAWS symptoms include fatigue and mood swings insomnia, sleep disorders, fatigue, problems with concentration, irritation, and mood swings. Many former alcoholics must change their lifestyle to manage these symptoms as they seek assistance from support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and/or psychotherapy.
Understanding Alcohol Detox Phases: A Timeline
In the first few hours after quitting drinking, they could begin experiencing post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS), a condition which can last for weeks or even months after the cessation of drinking.
The first stage of detoxification from alcohol can take anywhere from 2 to 3 weeks, and is characterized by severe psychological withdrawal symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia. The withdrawal symptoms generally subside after about 48 hours (in certain instances, they extend by up to 5 days). The physical aspect of the detox process begins during this time as well; people undergoing alcohol detox may experience tremors, nausea vomiting, fever, and chills. However, these signs typically are only for a couple of hours maximum.
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The purpose of the patient who is in a detox program is to rid their body of alcohol, but also to understand how they can refrain from drinking in the near future. A detox center will provide patients with 24-hour monitoring and supervision while detoxing to ensure their safety.
Although withdrawal symptoms can be intense however, they’re rarely harmful (unless not treated).
Former heavy drinkers usually go through the “rehab” phase, also known as post-acute withdrawal, following the completion of the alcohol detox. The duration can range from weeks to months, based upon how quickly they adapt to life without alcohol. There are times when they may experience symptoms from previous withdrawals, like insomnia and irritability. They may also experience alcohol cravings.
Treatment programs usually consist of groups of therapy with fellow recovering alcoholics and individual counseling sessions with a therapist specially trained in addiction medicine. These programs have been found to significantly increase recovery rates over time.
Individuals who are dependent on alcohol may experience withdrawal symptoms after they abruptly cease drinking following a time of intense intoxication, prescription medication or other drugs. It is essential for those trying to stop drinking to recognize the indicators, symptoms and consequences of withdrawal in order to minimize the dangers associated with the abrupt stop of drinking. There are people who require medical assistance when they are detoxing from alcohol, particularly those who have been addicted for a long period of time.