Alcohol Detox and Rehab
When someone begins the detox process, it is important that they clear their schedule for the duration of their treatment. They also have to get support from family and friends.
Most often, medications are prescribed to alleviate uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines (like diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) are the most popular.
Medicines
The use of medications is typically during detox to help suppress and reduce the main withdrawal symptoms. These medications do not treat addiction but only assist you in navigating the initial stages of withdrawal. It is crucial to remember that you'll need treatment for alcohol addiction despite the drug.
A medical professional will prescribe the correct medication for your particular situation. This will include a thorough analysis of your health condition and drinking history. They'll also take into account any other medications that you may be taking, as well as an exhaustive physical exam. Then, they'll design an alcohol detox program specific to your needs and goals.
Alcohol withdrawal can be risky and even fatal, especially when symptoms like seizures or delirium occur. This is why it's recommended to seek medical help when beginning to stop drinking. You could be at risk if trying to quit cold turkey. Do this only under the supervision of your doctor or therapist.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for alcohol withdrawal are benzodiazepines. These are sedatives that can be prescribed in various forms including Librium (chlordiazepoxide) and diazepam (Valium). They differ in potency and duration of action and time of onset. Barbiturates and other sedatives may be prescribed to treat alcohol withdrawal, but they are less popular due to their high toxicity.
Disulfiram is a different drug that is used to detox alcohol. It works by interfering with the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. This triggers a severe and unpleasant physical reaction to any alcohol consumed during the course of this medication. Antabuse is the brand name used for this medication.
Inpatient alcohol detox programs typically require a stay at a hospitals or other facilities for the duration of the program. Although this is the preferred option for many, outpatient alcohol detox is possible as long as your home environment and social supports are stable and you can be committed to visiting a clinic or other treatment center on a regular basis for meds. Detoxing outpatient is a good option for people who are less likely of relapse and their physical and mental health are in good shape.
Monitoring
Many people with an alcohol issue also struggle with a mental health condition. If this is the situation, your doctor could use monitoring to track your drug and alcohol consumption during the treatment process. Monitoring can come in many forms, such as self-reporting or breathalyzers. Understanding the process of monitoring is crucial so that you can be part of your treatment plan.
The majority of people begin their alcohol detox by halting drinking. Some people can do this on their own, but most need medical assistance. Your doctor will evaluate the situation and recommend the best method for detox. You could be given the sedatives to help you stay calm and lessen the severity of your withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will also be monitoring your vital signs and keep you at ease during this difficult time.
After the detox phase then you'll begin the rehabilitation phase of your recovery. In this phase, your rehab team will assist you in understanding the root causes of your alcohol addiction and learn new healthy habits. They will also teach you to manage your addiction, and prevent relapse.
A major part of rehab is learning how to cope with triggers and stressors that could lead you back to drinking. You'll develop a support network and learn new coping techniques that will allow you to stay sober. You'll also learn how to recognize when your cravings for alcohol are beginning and make a move before they escalate out of hand.
Monitoring is an essential component of recovery as it helps you remain accountable to your goals for sobriety. It can help you track and identify the obstacles preventing your success. It can also assist you in improving your stress-management and coping skills by allowing you to connect with an online community of other recovering addicts.
In addition to observing your alcohol use as well as your alcohol consumption, you'll need to record your daily activity and eat a balanced diet to ensure you stay sober. You'll also have to find a mentor and attend regular meetings. During these meetings you will be able to share your story with other recovering addicts and receive encouragement from them. These meetings are also a great way to talk about any addiction issues and create an action plan.
Therapy
Detoxification is the first step in overcoming alcohol addiction. The process of detoxification eliminates the body's dependence on alcohol through the removal of the chemical components that create a high following consuming the drug. A medical professional is required to supervise the process. It is risky to try and detox on your own. It is essential to seek out medical treatment or inpatient care at a facility specialized in treating alcoholism.
Inpatient detox centers have an entire staff of medical professionals who will monitor your progress and offer medications to ease the discomfort during this difficult time. The medicines utilized during the detoxification process aid in keeping your body's chemicals in check and lower the risk for withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines are prescribed as short-acting or longer-acting drugs, are the most common medication used during alcohol detox. Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) and diazepam (Valium) are two kinds of benzos that can be prescribed to treat symptoms of withdrawal insomnia, withdrawal, and muscle spasms.
A person who is dependent on alcohol has developed a physical dependence to the substance, and it can be dangerous to quit drinking cold turkey, or without a detox program that is monitored. This could lead to dangerous health complications, such as seizures and severe dehydration. Many who attempt to detox on their own fall into a cycle of relapse and then relapse back into alcohol. After you have completed your detox you can end the cycle by enrolled in an outpatient or inpatient rehabilitation program.
The length of your detox process will depend on the severity of alcohol addiction, and the amount of alcohol you consume regularly. The detox process can be completed in three to 10 days based on the individual. It could also depend on your gender since men and women experience withdrawal from alcohol differently.
Some people choose to go through a fast, or rapid detox program to accelerate the process. These programs are more costly and are not covered by insurance. However, they lower the chance of experiencing withdrawal symptoms and other health issues during the process of detoxification. The majority of people who go through these types of treatments will continue to experience cravings and other psychological effects after the drug has gone from their bodies.
Support
When you begin detox, your doctor will ask questions about your health and your previous use of alcohol and other substances. You might be asked to answer these questions honestly even if they're difficult. This information will determine the most effective course of action for you.
During detox, you will likely be given a variety of drugs to ease your withdrawal symptoms. These include benzodiazepines such as lorazepam as well as anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine. You might also be given antidepressants, like nefazodone, and antipsychotics, like the drug olanzapine to treat withdrawal symptoms that can be linked to anxiety or depression. Relapse prevention medications such as naltrexone or acamprosate are commonly used to reduce the craving for alcohol.
During this time, you will be checked regularly. Your temperature, blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored, as well as your breathing. Your doctor will also look to determine if there's any complications, such a seizures or delirium Tremens. These can be dangerous.
When the detox process is completed, you will be ready to begin your rehab. You might have the option of long-term residence, where you will stay on the rehab center's campus. Alternatively you could opt to undergo outpatient rehabilitation, which means you'll take part in sessions of therapy during the day and return home at night.
There is no evidence that one method of treatment has more benefits than the other for long-term recovery, however some people find it helpful to combine both. It is important to remember that addiction treatment does not provide a quick fix, regardless of the rehabilitation program you choose. It requires hard work and patience to get the results you want.
alcohol home detox is an uncomfortable experience, but it is a necessary first step for someone suffering from AUD. With the proper support system, you can get through this painful time and begin a successful, healthy life in rehab. Once you're clean, you'll be able to live life to the fullest. Start your addiction recovery now! Click here to learn more about rehab treatment options.