25 May

How to Detox From Alcohol

Alcohol is among the most difficult substances to quit. Detoxing from long-term alcohol addiction is particularly hard on the body. The fact that alcohol is legal and readily available only complicates matters. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms begin quickly – approximately eight hours from the time of the last drink. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe (even fatal), making quitting alcohol very difficult without professional help.

If you or a loved one is in need of alcohol treatment, know that it is possible to fully recover. The home detox programs at MD Home Detox provide safe medical detoxes in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Home detox treatment will give you the necessary treatment to stay physically and mentally strong when detoxing from alcohol. When detoxing, it is necessary to have a support system in place. Attempting to quit alone drastically reduces the chances of long-term sobriety.

Early stages of alcohol detox

Due to the physically draining process of detoxifying the body from alcohol, the process should be done under medical supervision. MD Home Detox arranges for private nurses to come to your home and provide medical assistance and supervision while detox is taking place. Quitting long-term alcohol abuse can be deadly under certain circumstances, so it is imperative that the detox takes place under medical care. The benefit of a home detox is that you are able to recover and heal in the comfort and privacy of your own home.

A full health exam will take place at the onset of detoxification. This lets medical professionals know how to best help you. When it comes to addiction treatment, individual care is a best practice. We all have unique anatomies and psychologies, so creating a custom treatment plan is imperative. you have particular needs that will influence detoxification, clinicians can tailor the process to fit them. Your private nurse will continue monitoring your health throughout detox and recovery.

Stages of alcohol withdrawal

The different stages of alcohol withdrawal carry different symptoms. The initial stage often begins within eight hours of the last drink. It can take longer, depending on how long (and severe) the alcohol dependency. It can take up to a couple days. This first wave of symptoms is both physical and psychological. It includes headaches, sweating, shaking, and anxiety. Cravings will be intense at this point, as the body and mind are accustomed to regular alcohol consumption. The aid of medical professionals is crucial at this stage.

Withdrawal typically peaks within 1-2 days, although this phase of withdrawal symptoms can last from 5-7 days. This wave of symptoms includes an increase in anxiety, confusion, and disorientation. Alcoholics can begin lashing out or even becoming violent during this phase. While experiencing peak withdrawal, the physical symptoms become intense. Body temperature will fluctuate, often resulting in fevers and chills. Sweating, shaking, vomit, and diarrhea are also common physical reactions during peak withdrawal.

Medical detox may be necessary

In heightened cases, alcoholics may experience Delirium Tremens (DTs). Delirium Tremens is a dangerous medical condition that, not only causes the typical alcohol withdrawal symptoms but also causes seizures and/or hallucinations. DTs are more likely for those who have had an alcohol dependence for a longer duration. For this reason, it is highly advisable to undergo a full medical detox if you have a long-term alcohol dependency.

The final stage of withdrawal will show a substantial decrease in symptoms.  However, cravings for alcohol may be strongest at this point. Despite the lack of physical symptoms, the addicted individual may be at their most vulnerable. This final stage of withdrawal lasts the longest and is quite possibly the most difficult. It can last up to a month, with periodic episodes occurring.

Medical detox from alcohol at home

In an effort to save money or exhibit strength, many alcoholics attempt to detox from alcohol on their own. This is not a good idea. The withdrawal period can cause result in risky behavior. Additionally, withdrawal symptoms often suppress the appetite. Failing to eat or stay properly hydrated will worsens withdrawal symptoms. DTs and other intense withdrawal symptoms can result in a coma – or even death.

It’s not worth going it alone. MD Home Detox offers medical detox in the comfort and privacy of your own home. We provide those with an alcohol dependency with the appropriate care, allowing for the best chances of a full recovery. Our individual care plans include a comprehensive medical exam that ensures you will be treated in the best possible way. Additionally, we offer mental health examinations to ensure that we are treating any co-occurring disorders along with the addiction. Contact MD Home Detox today to release yourself from alcohol addiction.