Alcohol Detox and Rehab
When someone begins the detox process, it is crucial to get rid of their schedule for the duration of their treatment. They will need support from family and friends.
The majority of medications are prescribed to help reduce uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines are the most commonly used (like diazepam or chlordiazepoxide).
Medicines
The use of medications can reduce and suppress withdrawal symptoms. However, these drugs do not treat the underlying addiction, they only assist you in navigating the initial stages of withdrawal. In this period it is important to remember that despite the drugs, you'll still require alcohol treatment to get rid of your drinking problem.
A medical professional will recommend the right medication for your situation. This will include a thorough review of your current health status and your history of drinking. They will also consider any other medications that you might be taking and a thorough physical examination. They'll then design an alcohol detox plan that's tailored to your individual needs and goals.
Alcohol withdrawal can be a hazardous and even life-threatening situation, particularly when symptoms like seizures or delirium tremens occur. It is always recommended to seek medical attention when you are trying to quit drinking. You could be at a serious risk if you try to quit abruptly. Only do this under the supervision of a doctor or therapist.
The most popular benzodiazepines are medication prescribed for alcohol withdrawal. They are sedatives and can be prescribed in various forms, including Librium (chlordiazepoxide) and diazepam (Valium). The onset and duration of action, as well as strength of these drugs differ. Other sedatives like barbiturates, are also used to treat alcohol withdrawal but these are less commonly prescribed because of their toxic effects and the potential for addiction.
Disulfiram is a different drug that is used to eliminate alcohol. It works by affecting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. This medication can cause a violent, unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed. Antabuse is the brand name used for this medication.
Inpatient alcohol detox programs typically require a stay in a the hospital or in a similar facility for the duration of the program. Although this is the preferred method for many people but outpatient detox is feasible in the event that your home environment and social support systems are stable and you're able to make a commitment to visiting an office or another treatment center regularly for medication. Outpatient detox is a great option for those who are less likely to fall back and have good physical and mental health.
Monitoring
Many people with an alcohol-related problem that is serious are also struggling with a mental health issue that is co-occurring. Your treatment provider will monitor your drug and alcohol intake during the treatment process. Monitoring can take a variety of forms, including self-reporting, breathalyzers, urinalysis, and so on. Understanding the mechanism behind monitoring is essential to be part of your treatment plan.
The majority of people begin their alcohol detox by quitting drinking. Some people can accomplish this on their own, but the majority require medical assistance. Your doctor will examine your situation and suggest an appropriate method of detox. During this process, you may receive sedatives that will relax you and lessen the severity your withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will keep track of your vital signs to keep you comfortable and calm during this difficult time.
After the detox phase then you'll begin the rehabilitation phase of your recovery. During this phase, your rehab team will help you understand the root causes of your addiction and learn new healthy habits. They'll also show you how to manage your addiction and prevent the relapse.
A large part of rehab is learning to deal with triggers and stressors that can trigger you to go to relapse into drinking. You'll develop a support network and practice new coping skills that will allow you to stay sober. You'll be able to recognize the onset of your cravings for alcohol and how to act before things get out of control.
Monitoring is an essential part of recovery as it helps you stay accountable to your sobriety goals. It will help you monitor your progress and identify obstacles that are hindering your success. You can also enhance your coping skills and manage stress by connecting with other recovering addicts in an online community.
You'll also need to monitor your alcohol intake, track your daily activities, and consume nutritious meals to maintain your sobriety. You'll also need to find a sponsor and attend meetings regularly. In these meetings, you'll discuss your journey with fellow recovering alcoholics, and get support from them. These meetings also provide an opportunity to talk about the issues you're facing with your addiction and to work on a plan for moving forward.
Therapy
Detoxification is the initial step in overcoming alcohol dependence. Detoxification removes the body’s dependence on alcohol by the removal of the chemical components that trigger a high after consumption of the drug. A medical professional is required to supervise the process. It is risky to try and detox on your own. It's important to seek outpatient or inpatient treatment at a facility that is specialized in treating addiction to alcohol.
Inpatient detox centers are staffed with an entire team of medical professionals who can monitor your progress and offer medications to ease discomfort during this difficult time. The detoxification medications help keep your body's chemical balance in check and lower the chance of experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines are prescribed as either longer-acting or short-acting drugs, are the most common medications used during the process of detoxification from alcohol. Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) and diazepam (Valium) are 2 types of benzos which can be prescribed to treat symptoms of withdrawal insomnia, withdrawal and muscle spasms.
It is risky for someone who is addicted alcohol to stop drinking without a detox program or without supervision. This can lead to serious health complications, such as seizures and severe dehydration. Many people who attempt to detox themselves fall back into alcohol dependence. After detoxing you can end the cycle by enrolment in an outpatient or inpatient rehab program.
The duration of the detox process can vary according to the severity of your alcohol addiction and the amount of alcohol that you consume regularly. The detox process can be completed in three to 10 days based on the person. It may be influenced by gender, as women and men are affected by withdrawal from alcohol in different ways.
Some people choose to go through a speedy, or rapid detox program to speed up the process. These programs are more costly and are not covered by insurance. However, they lower the risk of withdrawal symptoms and other health problems during the process of detoxification. The majority of people who go through this type will still suffer from cravings and other psychological effects once the drugs have been removed from their bodies.
Support
Staff will ask you questions about your health, your previous use of alcohol and drugs. You might be asked to answer these questions honestly, even if they are difficult. The information you provide will be used to determine the most suitable course for you.
During detox, you'll be provided with a variety of medications to ease withdrawal symptoms. alcohol home detox uk include benzodiazepines like lorazepam, and anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine. You may also be prescribed antidepressants such as Nefazodone as well as antipsychotics, such as olanzapine to treat withdrawal symptoms associated with depression or anxiety. Relapse prevention medications, such as Acamprosate and naltrexone, are also commonly used to help alleviate alcohol cravings.
You will be inspected regularly during this period. You will be monitored for temperature and blood pressure, as well as your breathing rate, and heart rate. Your doctor will also look to see if there are any complications, such as seizures or delirium Tremens. These can be dangerous.
Once the detoxification process is completed, you're ready to begin your rehab treatment. You could be able to opt for long-term residential treatment, in which you'll stay on the rehab center's campus; or you may opt to go through outpatient rehabilitation, which means you'll take part in therapy sessions during the day and return home at evening.
There isn't any evidence to suggest that one method of treatment is more beneficial over the other for long-term recovery, but some people find it helpful to mix the two. It is important to keep in mind that addiction treatment doesn't provide an instant fix, regardless of the rehabilitation program you choose. It requires a lot of effort, time and patience to achieve the results you want.
Detox is an uncomfortable experience, but it's an essential first step for someone suffering from AUD. With the appropriate support system you can make it through this painful time and move on to an active, healthy and happy life in rehab. When you're clean, you'll be able to truly enjoy everything life has to offer. Start your addiction recovery today! Click here to find out more about the options for rehab treatment.