The treatment process for alcoholism begins with a thorough admissions process. This step helps treatment centers match their clients with the appropriate amount of care. The wrong amount of care may frustrate the client or put him or her in harm's way. In order to avoid either scenario, clients should be upfront about the type of drinking they did, the challenges they were facing, and any other substances they have used in the past. A treatment center's admissions staff can help the client make the right decisions about the care they will receive.

Treatment

When an individual stops drinking, they may experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms such as increased body temperature, sweating, agitation, and anxiety. Many of these symptoms are temporary and can subside within days. Most people experiencing alcohol withdrawal also experience a significant increase in blood pressure, elevated body temperature, and an irregular heartbeat. They may also experience hallucinations or confusion, or may feel a sense of numbness and nausea. Fortunately, there are many treatments available to ease the discomforts of alcohol withdrawal.

While alcohol detoxification can seem intimidating, it is actually an important first step in rehabilitation. The process helps patients prepare for the next phase of rehabilitation, such as long-term residential treatment or outpatient rehab. Those who are physically stable and have energy can engage in activities that make them feel better. They may even choose to read books or watch videos that help them find new interests. Those who are in more advanced stages of addiction may also be placed in outpatient treatment, depending on their physical condition.

Side effects

When undergoing alcohol detox, alcoholics may experience several withdrawal symptoms. While the severity of these symptoms varies between individuals, they can include: hand tremors, anxiety, irritability, confusion, insomnia, and even excessive sweating. Some of the worst symptoms of alcohol detox include memory loss and hallucinations. These symptoms can last from five to ten days, and some last longer. For these reasons, it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible.

A medical team at a detoxification facility will implement a personalized treatment plan to address the individual detox side effects. This plan may include prescribed medications or therapies that combat withdrawal symptoms. During the entire process, patients are monitored by medical personnel around the clock. While detoxing from alcohol, prescription medications and therapies can be prescribed as necessary. To further ease the withdrawal symptoms, patients will be kept under constant medical supervision by a qualified medical staff.

Inpatient treatment

There are two basic types of alcohol detox programs - inpatient residential rehab and partial hospitalization. Your doctor may recommend one over the other based on your severity of alcohol dependence, length of alcohol use, and financial situation. When deciding between these two options, you should consider the benefits of each, as well as the types of therapies and programs available. In addition to assessing your financial situation, you should also consider the length of your program and whether you will need financial assistance.

Inpatient rehab programs are more comprehensive and offer 24-hour medical care. During the recovery period, you may experience physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms such as intense cravings and decreased motivation. Throughout the recovery process, you will be able to talk with trained staff members who can provide support and guidance. Additionally, inpatient treatment facilities provide a safe environment without alcohol, which helps shield you from the negative effects of the environment and triggers.

Drugs used to manage withdrawal symptoms

Some medications are designed specifically to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms. For example, diazepam, a member of the benzodiazepine drug class, is effective for treating the unpleasant symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. It is usually prescribed for the first few days of alcohol withdrawal and at gradually increasing doses. Higher doses may be safe in an inpatient setting. In some cases, it may also be administered intramuscularly.

Benzodiazepines are the most common types of medications used to treat alcohol withdrawal. They calm the central nervous system and may be prescribed for insomnia, anxiety, and muscle spasms. Benzodiazepines are available in both short and long-acting versions. Long-acting benzos are usually given for three days. Examples of benzos include diazepam and chlordiazepoxide.

Recovery options

Those seeking treatment for alcoholism can choose from several options. Individual therapy or holistic approaches may lessen the uncomfortable symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Yoga, meditation, and other forms of therapeutic support are excellent ways to reduce stress and detoxify the body. Medication management is another option for managing withdrawal symptoms and alcohol cravings. While detoxification may be uncomfortable, it is a necessary first step toward long-term recovery. In addition to medications, many detox programs include counseling and organic produce.

Individual therapy and medication-assisted treatment are essential for stabilization. Stabilization helps patients overcome physical dependence and focus on a treatment plan for alcoholism. Although detox programs do not offer rehab, many patients with addiction still require certain services. After detox, many centers refer patients to outpatient or inpatient rehab programs. Outpatient programs are designed for those with moderate to severe addiction and those who have a history of relapse.