Alcohol Detox and Rehab
When someone begins the process of detox, it is essential to clear their schedule for the duration of their treatment. They will require the support of family and friends.
Most often, medications are prescribed to reduce uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines (like diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) are the most common.
Medicines
Medications are typically used during detox to help suppress and reduce the main withdrawal symptoms. They don't treat addiction, but rather aid in the initial phases of withdrawal. During this time it is crucial to remember that despite the medications, you will have to continue with treatment for alcohol to overcome your addiction to alcohol.
A medical professional will give you the right medication for your situation. This will include a thorough analysis of your health condition and your history of drinking. They'll also consider any other medications you might be taking as well as an examination of your body. They'll then create an alcohol detox program that is customized to your specific needs and goals.
Alcohol withdrawal can be hazardous and even fatal, particularly when signs of seizures or delirium are present. This is why it's always recommended that you seek medical assistance when you first begin to quit drinking. Attempting to stop cold turkey can put you at serious risk and should be done under the supervision of a doctor or a certified therapist.
Benzodiazepines are the most commonly used medicine prescribed for withdrawal from alcohol. These sedatives can be prescribed as Librium (chlordiazepoxide) as well as diazepam, as well as in different forms. These drugs differ in their effectiveness as well as their duration of action and onset. Barbiturates as well as other sedatives can be prescribed to treat alcohol withdrawal but they are not as widely used due to their higher toxicity.
Disulfiram is another medication used to eliminate alcohol. It works by blocking the enzyme acetaldehyde-dehydrogenase. This triggers a severe and unpleasant physical reaction to alcohol consumed while taking this medication. Antabuse is the brand name of this medication.
Inpatient alcohol detox programs usually require a stay at a hospitals or other facilities for the duration of the program. Outpatient alcohol detox is completed when your home and support system are stable, and if you're able to commit to regular visits to an office for medication. Outpatient detox is a great option for those who are less likely to relapse, and are in excellent physical and mental health.
Monitoring
Many people who suffer from an alcohol addiction problem are also suffering from mental health issues that are co-occurring. If this is the case, your treatment provider may use monitoring to track your drug and alcohol consumption during the treatment process. Monitoring can take many forms, including self-reporting, breathalyzers, and urinalysis. It is essential to understand the process of monitoring to be able to take part in your treatment program.
The majority of people begin detoxing from alcohol by stopping drinking. Some people can do this by themselves, but the majority of people require medical assistance. Your doctor will evaluate the situation and recommend an approach to detox. During this process, you might be given sedatives to help relax you and lessen the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will also keep track of your vital signs and ensure that you are comfortable during this difficult period.
After the detox phase, you'll be in the rehabilitation phase of your recovery. In this phase, your treatment team will assist you in understanding the root causes of your alcohol addiction and learn new healthy behaviors. They'll also show you how to manage your addiction and prevent the relapse.
In rehab, a large part of the program is the process of learning to manage triggers or stressors that could cause you to drink again. You'll develop a support system and learn new coping techniques that will help you to remain sober. You'll learn to recognize the onset of your alcohol cravings and how to take action before things spiral out of control.
Monitoring is a vital aspect of recovery, as it allows you to remain accountable to your goals for sobriety. private alcohol detox will help you monitor your progress and identify any obstacles that hinder your success. You can also enhance your skills for coping and manage stress by connecting with other recovering addicts through an online community.
You'll also need to be aware of your alcohol consumption, track your daily activities, and consume an appropriate diet to keep your sobriety. You'll need to find a mentor and attend meetings on a regular basis. During these meetings, you'll discuss your experiences with other recovering alcoholics and get support from them. These meetings are also an opportunity to talk about the issues you're having with your addiction and work on a strategy for moving forward.
Therapy
Detoxification is the initial step to overcoming an alcohol addiction. Detoxification helps to break the body's dependence on alcohol through the removal of the chemical components that trigger a high after drinking the substance. A medical professional must supervise the process. Doing it on your own can be risky and even fatal. It is important to seek outpatient or inpatient treatment at a center that is specialized in treating addiction to alcohol.
Inpatient detox centers are staffed with medical professionals who can monitor your progress, and prescribe medication to ease discomfort during this difficult period. The medications used during detoxification can help keep your body's chemical balance in check and lower the risk of developing withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines are the most frequently used drugs during alcohol detox, and they can be prescribed in short-acting or long-acting forms. Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) and diazepam (Valium) are 2 types of benzos which can be prescribed to combat withdrawal symptoms, insomnia, and muscle spasms.
It can be dangerous for someone who is dependent on alcohol to stop drinking without a detox program or without supervision. This could lead to dangerous health issues, including seizures and severe dehydration. Many people who try to detox on their own relapse and then relapse back into alcohol. After you have completed your detox you can end the cycle by enrolled in an outpatient or an inpatient rehabilitation program.
The length of your detox process will depend on the severity of the addiction to alcohol, as well as the amount of alcohol you consume regularly. The detox process can be completed in between three and 10 days, depending on the person. It could also be affected by your gender, as women and men experience alcohol withdrawal differently.
Some people opt for a quick or quick detox program to speed the process. These programs can be more expensive and aren't typically covered by insurance, however they do reduce the risk for withdrawal symptoms and other medical problems during the process of detoxification. The majority of people who participate in this type of treatment will suffer from cravings and other psychological effects after the drug has gone from their bodies.
Support
Staff members will ask questions about your health, your previous use of alcohol or other drugs. Even if the questions seem difficult, you could be asked to honestly answer them. This information will determine the most effective option for you.
During detox, you'll be given a number of drugs to ease withdrawal symptoms. These medications include benzodiazepines like lorazepam, as well as anticonvulsants like carbamazepine. You may also receive antidepressants, like nefazodone, and antipsychotics, such as olanzapine, to treat any withdrawal symptoms that are related to depression or anxiety. Relapse prevention drugs, such as Acamprosate and naltrexone are also used to help alleviate cravings for alcohol.
During this time, you will be monitored regularly. Your temperature, blood pressure and heart rate will be checked, as is your breathing. Your doctor will also look for any potential complications like seizures or delirium, which can be very dangerous.
Once the detoxification process is completed, you are now ready to begin your rehab treatment. You might have the option of long-term residential treatment, in which you will stay on the rehab center's campus; or you may opt to undergo outpatient rehabilitation which means that you will be attending therapy sessions during the day and then return home at the end of the day.
It isn't clear which type of treatment is best for long-term recovery. However, some discover that combining the two treatment options can be beneficial. It is important to remember that addiction treatment doesn't come with an instant solution, no matter which treatment program you select. It takes hard work and patience to get the results you desire.
Detox can be uncomfortable However, it's a vital step for those suffering from AUD. With the right support system in place you can make it through this painful time and begin an enjoyable, healthy life in rehabilitation. Then, once you're clean you'll be able to truly enjoy everything life offers. Begin your recovery from addiction today! Click here to learn about the different rehab treatment options available.