Alcohol Detox and Rehab
It is essential to make sure you have a clear schedule for the duration the treatment when someone begins the process of detoxification. They should also receive support from their family members and friends.
Most often, drugs are prescribed to reduce uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines (like diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) are the most commonly used.
Medicines
Medications are typically used during alcohol detox to suppress and reduce the main withdrawal symptoms. However, these drugs do not treat the underlying addiction, but instead aid in completing the initial phases of withdrawal. It's important to remember that you'll still require alcohol treatment even if you are taking the medication.
A medical professional will prescribe the appropriate medication for your situation. This will include a thorough examination of your health situation and your history of drinking. They'll also take into consideration any other medications you may be taking as well as a physical examination. They'll then create an alcohol detox plan that's specific to your requirements and goals.
Alcohol withdrawal can be a risky and potentially life-threatening condition especially when symptoms such as seizures or delirium tremens develop. It is recommended to seek medical attention in the event that you want to quit drinking. If you attempt to stop drinking cold turkey, it can put you at risk and should be done under the supervision of a doctor or trained therapist.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for withdrawal from alcohol are benzodiazepines. These sedatives can be prescribed as Librium (chlordiazepoxide) and diazepam, or in other forms. The two drugs differ in their strength and duration of action and the time at which they take effect. Barbiturates and other sedatives can be prescribed to treat withdrawal from alcohol, but they are less widely used due to their higher toxicity.
Another drug used in alcohol detox is disulfiram. It works by blocking the enzyme acetaldehyde-dehydrogenase. This medication can cause a violent, unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed. This is also referred to by the brand name Antabuse.
Inpatient alcohol detox programs generally require a stay in a hospital or other facility for care to complete the program. Outpatient alcohol detox can be completed in the event that your home and social support system are stable, and if you are able to commit to regular visits to a clinic for medication. Outpatient detox is an ideal option for those who are at lower risk of relapse and who's physical and mental health is in good condition.
Monitoring
Many people who have an alcohol-related problem that is serious also have a co-occurring mental health condition. If this is the case, your healthcare provider could use monitoring to track the amount of alcohol and drugs you consume throughout the treatment process. Monitoring can take a variety forms, including self-reporting breathalyzers, urinalysis, and so on. Understanding how to alcohol detox at home behind monitoring is essential so you can be a part of your treatment plan.
The majority of people begin their alcohol detox by quitting drinking. Some people can accomplish this by themselves, but most require medical assistance. Your doctor will examine your situation and suggest the most appropriate method for detox. During this process, you might receive sedatives that will calm you down and reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will also keep track of your vital signs and ensure that you are well-informed during this challenging time.
After the detox phase you'll move into the rehab phase of your recovery. During this stage, your treatment team will assist you in understanding the root causes of your addiction and learn new healthy behaviors. They'll also teach you how to manage your addiction and prevent the possibility of relapse.
In rehab, a significant portion of the program is dealing with triggers or stressors that could cause you to drink again. You'll develop a support network and practice new coping skills that will allow you to stay clean. You'll also be taught to detect when your cravings for alcohol are beginning and act before they get out of control.
Monitoring is a vital aspect of recovery, as it helps you stay accountable for your goal of sobriety. It can help you track your progress and identify any obstacles to your progress. You can also improve your coping skills and stress management by connecting with other recovering addicts through an online community.
You'll also need to monitor your alcohol consumption, keep track of your daily activities, and eat an appropriate diet to maintain your sobriety. You'll need an individual mentor and attend meetings on a regular basis. During these meetings you will discuss your journey with other recovering addicts and get support from them. These meetings also provide an opportunity to talk about the issues you're having in your addiction and work on a plan to move forward.
Therapy
Detoxification is the first step towards recovery from alcohol addiction. It helps to break the body's dependence on alcohol by removing the chemical components within the body that trigger a high when consuming the drug. A medical professional should supervise the process. It's risky to attempt detoxing on your own. It's crucial to seek out treatment for yourself or inpatient care at a facility specialized in treating alcoholism.
Inpatient detox centers are staffed with an entire staff of medical professionals who will track your progress and give you medication to ease the discomfort during this difficult time. The drugs used during detoxification can help keep your body's chemical balance in check and reduce the risk of developing withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines are the most commonly utilized drugs during the process of alcohol detox, and they are available in short-acting or long-acting forms. The Benzos, such as chlordiazepoxide also referred to as Lirium and diazepam, also known as Valium, are prescribed to treat insomnia, withdrawal and muscle spasms.
Someone who is addicted to alcohol has developed a physical dependence on the drug, and it can be risky to stop drinking alcohol cold turkey or without a detox program that is monitored. This can lead to serious health complications, such as seizures and severe dehydration. Many who attempt to detox themselves fall back into alcohol dependence. This cycle can be stopped by undergoing an outpatient or inpatient rehab program after completing the detox.
The length of the detox process can vary depending on the degree of your addiction to alcohol and the amount of alcohol you drink regularly. The detox process can be completed in between three and ten day depending on the individual. It could be influenced by your gender, as men and woman experience alcohol withdrawal differently.
Some people opt for a fast or quick detox program to speed the process. These programs are more expensive and are not covered by insurance. However, they can reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms and other health problems during the detoxification. The majority of people who participate in this type will still feel cravings and other mental effects after the drugs have left their bodies.
Support
Staff members will ask you questions about your health and your previous alcohol use and other drugs. You may be asked to answer these questions truthfully even if they're difficult. This information is used to determine the best method for you.
During detox, you'll likely be offered a range of medications to ease your withdrawal symptoms. These medications include benzodiazepines like lorazepam, as well as anticonvulsants like carbamazepine. You might also be given antidepressants like nefazodone and antipsychotics, like Olanzapine, to treat withdrawal symptoms that are related to depression or anxiety. Relapse prevention medications, such as naltrexone and acamprosate, are also used to treat alcohol cravings.
You will be inspected regularly during this period. Your temperature, heart rate and blood pressure will be closely monitored, as will your breathing. Your doctor will also check for any possible complications such as seizures or delirium tremens, which are extremely risky.
After the detoxification process is completed, you are ready to begin your rehabilitation. You might choose to undergo long-term residence, where you reside on the rehab facility's campus. Alternatively you may opt to undergo outpatient rehabilitation, which means that you will attend sessions for therapy throughout the day, and then return home at night.
It isn't certain which treatment is better for long-term recovery. However, some people find that combining the two treatments can be beneficial. Whatever rehab program you choose, it is important to keep in mind that addiction treatment is not an instant fix. To achieve the results you want it takes patience, time and a lot of hard work.
Detox can be painful However, it's a vital step for anyone suffering from AUD. With the appropriate support system you will be able to get through this difficult period and then move on to a successful, healthy life in rehabilitation. Once you're clean you'll be able to truly enjoy everything life offers. Start your addiction recovery today! Click here to find out more about the various rehab treatment options.