An alcohol addiction can be one of the worst addictions to try and overcome. For those who get physical symptoms from trying to quit you may think it is impossible to become sober again. Alcohol detox has helped many people through the physical withdrawal symptoms of their addictions and can be a useful tool in beginning the sometimes-lifelong journey to recovery.
Function
Alcohol detox is the process through which people may overcome the physical symptoms of an alcohol addiction under the supervision and care of professionals. This is an extremely important step on the road to recovery because those who suffer physical symptoms of withdrawal are incapable of mental recovery from their addiction as well. Detox is considered by many to be the first step in recovering from a severe alcohol addiction.
Identification
There are both inpatient and outpatient detox programs available. The inpatient detox programs last longer and are the programs in which the patient is closely monitored and offered assistance during the physical withdrawal stage of the treatment. After this stage the patient remains in the program or is referred to a program that can help with the remainder of the recovery process. Inpatient programs also monitor the symptoms of withdrawal and treat them with non-addictive medications.
Significance
Alcohol detox programs are more commonly used now than ever thanks to the Internet making them more approachable. Alcohol detox helps an addict through the most intense stages of recovery. Without programs like these most people would not be able to make it to a sober life. Withdrawal symptoms are as harsh on the body as the alcohol itself and alcohol detox programs are one of the single most significant aids available for those seeking assistance in recovery from alcohol addiction.
Effects
Throughout the alcohol detox process several things may happen to your body as it gets over the initial shock of withdrawal from alcohol. Milder symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include headaches, nausea, shaking, cravings, and sweating during inactivity. More extreme symptoms may include auditory hallucinations, depression, anxiety, seizures, stomach cramps, and a rapid pulse; such symptoms should be reported to and examined by a physician. After the battle against the symptoms of withdrawal has been won, tougher battles of remaining independent of alcohol can begin.
Warning
The shock your body will go through is necessary but can be extremely dangerous during your journey to recovery. It is important that if you are thinking of trying to detox yourself at home that you reconsider and find an alcohol detox program to help you. If money is an issue, you may be able to find one of the detox programs that charge fees based on your income. There is no shame in asking for help to overcome addiction, so please consider doing so, as the symptoms of withdrawal are harsh enough at times to require hospitalization.
Tags: detox programs, alcohol addiction, Alcohol detox, symptoms withdrawal, alcohol detox, physical symptoms