For a person battling a substance use disorder or addiction, detoxing from drugs or alcohol is not easy, and could be deadly. There are too many health risks when detoxing on your own. The best way to detox is with medical supervision at a treatment facility.
The purpose of detox is to allow your body to eliminate all toxic substances prior to treatment. Depending on the type of substance and duration of use, symptoms of withdrawal can be extremely severe and painful. A medical professional can prescribe and manage medication to relieve some of the symptoms, making the process more comfortable.
Never detox from alcohol at home or alone. Sudden alcohol cessation can cause vivid hallucinations, convulsions, and heart seizure, which is fatal. According to WebMD, delirium tremens, also known as DTs, usually start 48 to 72 hours after your last drink. This happens because your central nervous system adjusts to having alcohol around all the time. The body must work harder to keep your brain in a more awake state and to keep your nerves communicating to one another. When the alcohol level suddenly drops, that is what causes withdrawal symptoms.
Sometimes people try to quit “cold turkey,” which means they suddenly stop using. Drug and alcohol detox is a gradual process. Not everyone feels the same symptoms. The severity of withdrawals will vary depending on duration of use, mental or psychological disorders, emotional stability, and physical wellness. Drug detox must be done with medical supervision. Symptoms of drug withdrawal can be so severe that a person might become physically sick for days.
If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, do not be ashamed to get help. It is a battle that nobody should try fighting alone. Detox is necessary before entering treatment so you can be more aware and mindful of yourself and others. Entering treatment prior to detox is counterproductive to recovery. Make the call today and save yourself from the harmful effects of addiction. Recovery is possible and you are not alone.
Cypress Lakes Lodge offers treatment for addiction in a peaceful, remote, oxygen-rich environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204