Did you know about 385 fatalities daily due to alcohol abuse in the US? This figure includes all people who suffer from mild addiction to severe alcohol poisoning and covers both adults and children.
If you or someone close to you has succumbed to the pitfalls of alcohol, you may need to undergo detoxification and withdrawal at some point. Understanding alcohol detoxing and how it works can help you stay out of trouble and sober.
Read on to learn more about what to expect during alcohol detox.
Acute Withdrawal Stage
This is the primary phase when deciding to detox from excessive alcohol use. During this stage, the patient is monitored for withdrawal symptoms. These can range from mild to extreme and last anywhere from a few days to weeks.
Symptoms may include anxiety, insomnia, agitation, and excessive sweating. You may sometimes experience nausea, confusion, mild depression, and visual disturbances.
You may need medication assisted treatment to cut distress. Doctors may administer anti-anxiety drugs, anti-depressants, and anti-convulsants. Medications to reduce tremors, vitamins, and symptom management are also available.
Most of the physical symptoms of detoxing from alcohol subside after the first week or two of abstinence. The rest of the stages of detoxing involve psychological and lifestyle changes. This is to help patients on the journey to getting sober easier.
Intermediate Withdrawal Stage
The intermediate withdrawal stage is one of the most challenging times during the detox process. This stage begins once the more serious and immediate physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawals have passed.
During this time, the body is still trying to adjust and overcome the alcohol attained. Meanwhile, emotional and psychological impacts are beginning to manifest.
Symptoms during this withdrawal stage can be mild such as anxiety, fatigue, depression, and irritability. Or they can be more severe with events such as delirium tremens.
It is imperative during this time to watch and secure the patient as the body continues to struggle with alcohol withdrawal. To help manage any symptoms, there are medications prescribed by a doctor to help make the detoxification process a bit easier.
Protracted Withdrawal Stage
This stage can begin as early as two days and can last months. As the body starts to readjust, you may experience many symptoms. This includes recurring bouts of depression, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, restlessness, and malaise.
The physical symptoms can also be severe. It includes increased heart rate and blood pressure, and tremors.
Of course, you can still experience nausea, vomiting, sweating, headaches, and convulsions. This stage is the most important for permanent recovery. You are vulnerable to returning to drinking due to intense cravings and distressing symptoms during this stage.
Thus, it is essential to receive medical supervision and support. That way, you can manage protracted withdrawal’s physical and psychological symptoms. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to reduce anxiety and reduce cravings.
Learn the Crucial Stages of Alcohol Detox Today
Alcohol detox is not easy, but it can be done with the support and guidance of a healthcare professional. It is important to remember that relapse is common and not to lose hope.
By embarking on a personalized and tailored recovery plan, individuals can find hope, healing, and a new journey to wellness. Contact a treatment center for more information if you’re ready to take the first step.
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