How to Detox Alcohol
Alcohol addiction can lead to serious health issues including liver damage and heart disease. To reverse the effects of alcohol it is often recommended to stop drinking.
It is best to cleanse from alcohol under medical supervision, particularly when you suffer from an illness that may be worsened by alcohol withdrawal or if you've experienced seizures related 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 consequences of drinking alcohol for a long period. During the withdrawal process, clients may experience anxiety, headaches and nausea. They may also experience fatigue. During this stage that the client is subject to an extensive medical assessment and blood tests to determine the amount of drugs present in their system. The purpose of detoxification is to eliminate all drugs and alcohol from the body and restore a healthy balance within the nervous system as well as the brain.
Alcohol is a significant issue for a lot of people. It can cause serious health problems. There are other issues that are not as obvious like liver disease or cognitive impairment as well as the obvious signs of alcoholism such as hangovers and blackouts. The primary reason for addiction is the changes that take place in the body's metabolism when one consumes alcohol frequently. These changes result in dependence and tolerance, resulting in an illusion of homeostasis. The symptoms of alcohol dependence can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated properly.
The evaluation and stabilization phases of detox involve assessing the patient's medical history and the use of alcohol and drugs as well as looking at the patient's home and lifestyle to get a better idea of their support systems. This information will allow the medical team to recommend the kind of treatment and duration for the detox.
During this phase the medical team will administer medication that mimic the effects of alcohol, and will reduce withdrawal symptoms. They may also prescribe other medication to address any co-occurring disorders or general discomfort. The medications used during this phase are typically taken orally and could include antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and sedatives. These medications are typically administered in a hospital or a detox treatment center and must be monitored closely by the medical staff to avoid dangerous side effects such as seizures.
Some people who choose detox programs may be enrolled directly into an addiction treatment program. This is a good idea because it allows detoxification and treatment to be coordinated and decreases the chance of relapse.
Stage 2
During this phase, liver begins to convert dangerous, lipid soluble substances into less harmful water-soluble substances by using reactions such as sulfation, glutathione coupling, glucuronidation and acetylation. These new compounds can be excreted more easily from the body. This process is dependent upon the liver's cytochrome P450 enzyme system, and is also heavily dependent on nutrients. The right foods can support this stage of detoxification which includes proteins as well as fruits, vegetables and other herbs. Milk thistle is a good example. It helps normal liver functions and aids in the phases 1 and 2. It has been utilized for ages as a natural treatment option for liver problems.
Fiber is also crucial during this time, since it helps prevent constipation as well as aid in bowel movements.
Stage 3
During this stage the withdrawal symptoms of alcohol begin to increase in severity. Hallucinations, seizures and extreme confusion are all possible. Delirium Tremens is an emergency medical condition that could be life-threatening. They can also cause people to stop detoxing and start drinking again. This is why it is crucial to be under the supervision of a trained medical professional in a detox facility during this phase.
When undergoing a medically-supervised detox the client's heart rate as well as blood pressure will be monitored in order to ensure their safety and comfort. They may receive benzodiazepines that are FDA-approved for treating alcohol withdrawal seizures and Delirium tremens. These drugs also help to alleviate the discomfort of other withdrawal symptoms, like shaking and agitation. A drug called naltrexone may also be prescribed to reduce the effects of alcohol dependence. This drug is available in the form of a pill, or can be administered by injection. The pill version of naltrexone can be found in the brands ReVia, Depade and Vivitrol.
Even after the detoxification process is completed, withdrawal symptoms may last for a few days. In some cases they can last longer. Some people will struggle with them all the time of their lives, depending on the severity of the addiction and the length of time they've been drinking.
The first step on the recovery journey from alcohol addiction is to enter a detox program. It can be either outpatient or inpatient, but the best choice is to locate a detox program that offers 24/7 medical supervision. Inpatient detox programs are available in a clinic or hospital setting. alcohol detox are recommended for people with severe alcoholism. Outpatient programs are offered to those with moderate alcohol dependence. They permit the patient to stay at home while they detox. The results of a detox program will depend on the length of time that a person has abused alcohol and the degree of dependence they are. People with the most severe alcohol addiction are likely to have the longest and most difficult detox process.
Stage 4
The symptoms of this stage of detox are usually mild, but they are still essential to be observed. These symptoms usually start within the first six to eight hours after stopping drinking. They can include stomach discomforts and insomnia. They may also be accompanied by mood swings, tremors and fatigue. These are similar to hangover symptoms and should not be overlooked.
As the symptoms diminish but more severe ones appear. The second phase of AWS is characterised by a variety symptoms such as hallucinations, fever and hallucinations. These symptoms are more hazardous and could be life-threatening. Certain people who are in the midst of withdrawal from alcohol may be suffering from delirium-tremens. This can be fatal if not treated appropriately.
You'll enter the final stage of withdrawal from alcohol once the symptoms begin to diminish. This is the most difficult phase and takes a long time to get through. During this time your body will release lots of toxins, and you may become dehydrated due to this. You may also experience cravings or even the possibility of a Relapse.
In this period you should continue to seek assistance from a treatment center for addiction. While medical detox can be helpful for many people, it doesn't address the underlying causes of addiction. Drug rehabilitation programs are required to overcome the psychological problems that can lead to addiction and substance abuse.
While detox can be scary, it is vitally important to your recovery. If it is done under the supervision of a qualified professional, it can be a safe and effective way to remove alcohol or drugs from your body and prepare for rehab. It could save your life if you suffer from an incredibly dangerous drug or alcohol addiction. Get in touch with a treatment specialist today to learn more about the process of detoxification and how it can benefit your recovery. They are able to answer any questions and guide you through the process of detox. They can also talk about the long-term options for treatment like inpatient treatment, community support groups, or regular therapy sessions.