Alcohol detox is a very important step for those who are beginning an alcohol rehab program. But one common question people want to know is, what happens after the alcohol detox process begins?Â
In this article, you’ll learn what to expect during alcohol detox, what the general timeline of symptoms is for individuals with alcohol addictions, and how medication-assisted treatment can help.Â
What is Detox?
Detox can be challenging and uncomfortable, but it’s a necessary part of the addiction recovery process. During alcohol detox, the body is getting rid of the toxins from alcohol in the body. This will help to ensure patients have a healthy, fresh start when beginning the next phase of alcohol addiction treatment.
At Malibu Detox & Residential Treatment Center, we offer drug addiction treatment programs such as residential treatment (inpatient treatment) individually designed for individuals seeking to break free of their addiction and improve their physical and mental health. To learn more about our treatment programs and admissions process, reach out to our team at (424) 234-2027.
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome Symptoms
For someone who drinks alcohol heavily for an extended period of time, such as weeks, months, or years, it’s likely they will experience withdrawal symptoms when no longer drinking. Withdrawal can begin after just a few hours of not drinking. Symptoms can range from mild symptoms to severe symptoms, depending on the individual’s current health and how often they have been drinking.Â
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms often include some or all of the below:Â
- Headaches
- Anxiety
- Fever
- Chills
- Increased or decreased blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Changes in mood
- Hyperthermia
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Abnormal breathing
Causes of Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, which means it causes brain function to slow down. The result is that the brain over time will become used to keeping your system alert and functioning in a heightened state for an extended period of time.Â
When someone then stops drinking alcohol, the alcohol levels suddenly drop, and the nervous system continues to operate in an overactive state – this is what causes alcohol withdrawal symptoms.Â
Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal are both physical and psychological. The physical symptoms typically last for up to one week, while the psychological symptoms can last for several weeks. The exact length of time someone will have symptoms depends on general health, age, and the severity of the addiction.Â
In general, here’s what to expect:
First 6 to 12 Hours
The initial symptoms usually involve a mild headache, anxiety, nausea, and irritability.
Day 1
Symptoms become more severe and can include seizures and shaking.Â
Day 2
Days 3 to 7
After 1 Week
What To Expect with Malibu Detox
At Malibu Detox, our luxury detox center provides customized services to meet the needs of each one of our clients. Our healthcare professionals use the most effective treatment methods and medications to help clients withdraw from alcohol in the safest way possible.Â
Alcohol Withdrawal Treatment: Medication-Assisted Detox
Medication can be prescribed to help reduce the intensity of symptoms. This is known as medication-assisted detox.Â
The benefits of medication-assisted detox and treatment include:
- Providing relief from the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms, including severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms
- Decreasing severe alcohol cravings
- Reducing the chances of an overdose or relapse
- Improving participation levels in therapy programs
One of the more common medications for alcohol use disorder is Naltrexone. It is not an opioid and is an FDA-approved medication. It works by blocking any euphoric effects caused by alcohol use and therefore reduces cravings. This specific drug is typically prescribed following the detox process, but there are other medications that can be prescribed during detox to help make the process more comfortable.Â
Get Treatment For Alcohol Abuse
If you have an alcohol or drug addiction, help is available. At Malibu Detox & Residential Treatment Center, our multidisciplinary treatment program uses evidence-based methods to address and treat addiction for long-lasting sobriety.Â
We offer medical detox (including medication-assisted treatment), residential treatment, and aftercare programs.
Take the step towards alcohol abuse and substance abuse treatment today and begin your recovery journey. Contact Us
