If you are looking to detox yourself, there are a few things you need to know. These include the side effects, the symptoms, and the treatment for alcoholism.
Symptoms
Alcohol detox symptoms are unpleasant, but can be manageable, especially if you are going through the process with a medical team. Symptoms can include sweating, nausea, and tremors. If you are undergoing treatment, you may be prescribed medication to alleviate the symptoms.
Alcohol detox is a necessary first step to getting clean. You'll need to take vitamins and put obligations on hold to get through the process. Your friend or family member can help you through this process.
Alcohol withdrawal is a serious condition that can result in delirium tremens. This is a life-threatening illness that can cause hallucinations, seizures, and high blood pressure. The earliest signs of delirium tremens are usually noticeable two or three days after you stop drinking.
Acute alcohol withdrawal typically lasts for five days, though it can occur for longer. Delirium tremens is the most severe form of alcohol withdrawal. Some symptoms include extreme agitation, shaky hands, hallucinations, fever, and disorientation.
Those who have been dependent on alcohol for a long period of time are at risk for severe withdrawal. Severe alcohol withdrawal can be very dangerous without immediate intervention.
The duration of alcohol withdrawal depends on several factors. The amount of alcohol you consume per drink, your age, and your history of substance abuse all affect the intensity of your withdrawal.
Side effects
Withdrawal from alcohol is a difficult time. It can be painful, uncomfortable, and even life threatening. Thankfully, with the right treatment and support, you can overcome it.
Alcohol detox side effects can affect everyone differently. Some people experience symptoms like tremors, seizures, hallucinations, and depression. Others have panic attacks and delusions. Still others will suffer from more mild withdrawal symptoms. But the good news is that most of these symptoms will diminish over the course of the week or month.
One of the most common drug withdrawal side effects is anxiety. Benzodiazepines, or "benzos", are a class of medications that relieve anxiety. These medications act like alcohol and calm the central nervous system. They are commonly prescribed for sleep disorders and are also used to treat withdrawal drugs from alcohol.
There are two types of benzodiazepines. Short-acting and long-acting versions are available. You can choose the one that is best for your needs.
Some of the most unpleasant alcohol detox side effects are seizures and delirium tremens. Delirium tremens can cause serious physical problems. This condition may lead to a heart attack or coma.
Seizures are a common symptom in withdrawal, but they can be managed with medication. Seizure prophylaxis may be required for at least 24 hours after the last drink.
Other symptoms of withdrawal include fever, headache, nausea, and stomach cramps. Symptoms usually peak within the first 72 hours of a detox. After that, they can come and go throughout the week.
Treatment for alcoholism
Alcohol detox treatment is a crucial step in overcoming alcohol use disorder. There are a variety of treatment methods to choose from, including medication, behavioral therapies, and 12-step programs. The type of treatment you receive will depend on your addiction and your goals.
Inpatient alcohol treatment is recommended for people with heavy and long-term drinking. These individuals will receive around-the-clock care and support. They also receive psychological counseling. During the process, patients will be observed and treated for alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Depending on the severity of the addiction, the process may take up to three days. Some programs may offer payment plans for those without insurance.
Alcohol detox treatment can also be performed in an outpatient setting. This means that you can attend therapy sessions at the facility but remain in your home. However, it's important that you have a support person.
A person with an alcohol problem is at risk for social, academic, and work problems. Detoxing from alcohol can be a difficult and painful process, but it's an essential first step in recovery.
People who drink for a long time are more likely to experience the negative effects of alcohol withdrawal. This is because the liver plays an important role in the process. If the liver is damaged, the alcohol will take a longer time to leave the body.