As you contemplate taking the courageous step toward alcohol addiction recovery, understanding what to expect during detox is crucial. Recent studies show that approximately 14.5 million Americans struggle with alcohol use disorder, highlighting the prevalence of this issue. At Evoke Wellness at Miramar, we offer a comprehensive approach to alcohol detoxification, combining medical expertise with compassionate care. From our medical detox program to our extended residential treatment, we guide you through each stage of recovery. This article will outline the detox process, our various treatment options including holistic therapies, and how our alumni and aftercare programs support your long-term sobriety journey.
Call Evoke Wellness at Miramar today (833) 819-6066 or reach out online.
Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal
The Dangers of Quitting “Cold Turkey”
Attempting to quit alcohol abruptly without medical supervision, known as “going cold turkey,” can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening. When alcohol is consumed heavily over time, the brain becomes accustomed to its effects and dependent on it. Suddenly removing alcohol from the system causes a shock that can trigger severe withdrawal symptoms.
The unpredictable nature and intensity of alcohol withdrawal make it vital to have medical monitoring during detox. Attempting to “tough it out” alone significantly increases health risks.
Mitigating Withdrawal Under Medical Care
In a professional detox setting like Evoke Wellness at Miramar, clients receive 24/7 care from medical staff trained to safely manage alcohol withdrawal. Medications can be administered to control symptoms, prevent complications like seizures, and ease discomfort. With proper treatment, the detox timeline is shortened while risks are minimized.
The goal is to stabilize the client’s physical and mental state to prepare them for the next phase of addiction treatment. With the alcohol out of their system, they can engage in therapies and counseling with a clear mind, focused on uncovering the root causes behind their alcohol use disorder.
Timeline of Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Early Withdrawal: 6-48 Hours
The first alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically appear 6-12 hours after the last drink, though the exact timing varies. In this early phase, individuals may experience anxiety, irritability, nausea, headaches, and insomnia. These milder symptoms indicate the brain is starting to recalibrate without alcohol’s depressive effects.
Peak Withdrawal: 1-3 Days
As the body continues to detoxify, withdrawal intensifies over the next 24-72 hours. Common peak symptoms include severe anxiety, tremors, rapid heartbeat, profuse sweating, vomiting, and diarrhea. Seizures may also occur during this dangerous stretch, underscoring the importance of medical monitoring.
Protracted Phase: 4 Days – Several Months
After the acute phase subsides in the first week, some lingering issues like insomnia, mood swings, depression, and intense cravings can persist for several months in those with prolonged, heavy alcohol abuse. Known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), these stubborn symptoms highlight alcohol’s pervasive neurological impacts and the need for comprehensive, long-term treatment.
The withdrawal timeline underscores why attempting to quit alcohol alone is extremely risky. Comprehensive rehab programs at facilities like Evoke Wellness provide crucial medical detox, therapy, and relapse prevention support to navigate this challenging but necessary process safely.
What Happens During Detox?
The Withdrawal Process
As alcohol leaves the body, individuals in detox will experience withdrawal symptoms. These range from mild to severe, including anxiety, irritability, nausea, tremors, and increased heart rate. More extreme cases can involve delirium tremens, seizures, and even life-threatening complications. The severity depends on factors like the length and severity of alcohol dependence.
Importance of Medical Supervision
Attempting to detox from alcohol alone can be extremely dangerous. Withdrawal symptoms are challenging to manage independently and can rapidly escalate without proper medical care. Professional detox programs like Evoke Wellness provide 24/7 monitoring to ensure safety and administer medications to alleviate distressing symptoms.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
Even after the initial detox period, some individuals experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). This involves lingering psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment that can persist for months. Comprehensive rehab programs address PAWS through counseling, therapy, and holistic support to aid full recovery.
Medications During Detox
Certain prescription medications can help manage withdrawal during detox. However, combining them with alcohol is extremely risky. Benzodiazepines like Librium depress the central nervous system, so using them with alcohol amplifies dangerous side effects like respiratory distress, seizures, and overdose potential. Proper medical detox ensures these medications are administered safely.
Medication for Alcohol Withdrawal
Benzodiazepine Medications
For those undergoing alcohol detox, benzodiazepine medications like Librium (chlordiazepoxide) can provide relief from withdrawal symptoms. These anti-anxiety drugs work by stimulating GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that depresses bodily functions like heart rate and breathing. This helps relax the patient and mitigate issues like tremors, confusion, and insomnia during withdrawal.
However, benzodiazepines also carry risks of their own. Side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. Long-term use can lead to dependence and severe withdrawal symptoms if discontinued abruptly. Mixing benzos with alcohol amplifies these dangers exponentially.
Medical Supervision Is Critical
Attempting to detox “cold turkey” from alcohol without medical supervision can trigger life-threatening complications like delirium tremens (DTs). DTs often require hospitalization for stabilization through IV fluids, vitamin/electrolyte replacement, anti-seizure meds, and carefully monitored benzodiazepine tapers.
At Evoke Wellness, our medical detox provides 24/7 monitoring and administration of medications like Librium to ensure a safe, comfortable withdrawal process. Our team adjusts dosages to alleviate symptoms while avoiding over-sedation or dependence.
Comprehensive Treatment
While medication-assisted treatment can ease acute withdrawal, long-term recovery requires a multi-pronged approach. Our inpatient programs follow detox with intensive therapy, counseling, holistic care, and relapse prevention planning. Clients develop vital coping strategies to maintain sobriety after transitioning back to daily life.
Types of Alcohol Detox Programs
There are several types of alcohol detox programs available to suit individual needs and circumstances. Here are some common options:
Inpatient or Residential Detox
During an inpatient detox program, individuals reside at a treatment facility under 24/7 medical supervision. This ensures their safety and provides support throughout the withdrawal process. Medical staff can administer medications to alleviate severe withdrawal symptoms.
Outpatient Detox
Those with milder addictions may opt for an outpatient detox, attending the facility for monitoring and medication management while residing at home. This allows more flexibility but requires significant discipline and support.
Medical Detox
In a medical detox program, physicians prescribe medications like benzodiazepines to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This approach reduces health risks associated with suddenly stopping alcohol use.
Holistic Detox
Some facilities offer holistic therapies like exercise programs, meditation, yoga, and nutritional counseling alongside traditional detox methods. This comprehensive approach supports physical and mental well-being during recovery.
The appropriate detox program depends on factors like addiction severity, mental health, medical history, and insurance coverage. Many transition to inpatient or outpatient rehab after completing detox for ongoing addiction treatment and counseling.
How Long Does It Take to Detox From Alcohol?
The Detox Timeline
The duration of alcohol detoxification varies from person to person. Several factors influence how long it takes, including the severity of alcohol use disorder (AUD), overall health, and the presence of any co-occurring medical or mental health conditions. However, certain general timelines tend to apply:
- Mild symptoms like anxiety, insomnia and nausea usually peak within 24-48 hours after the last drink.
- More severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures and delirium tremens (DTs) typically arise between 48-96 hours.
- Psychological symptoms like mood disturbances and cravings can persist for weeks or months.
Medical Supervision is Key
Due to the unpredictable and potentially life-threatening nature of alcohol withdrawal, medical detox under 24/7 professional supervision is highly recommended. Medications can be administered to manage acute symptoms and prevent complications. The detox timeline may be extended gradually to minimize severe withdrawal effects.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
Even after the initial detox phase, some individuals experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). This condition involves prolonged symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, fatigue and difficulty with cognitive tasks that can last 6-24 months. Comprehensive addiction treatment and aftercare are crucial for sustained recovery.
What to expect in an alcohol detox FAQ
Medical Supervision & Medications
Alcohol detox programs provide a safe, medically-supervised environment where trained professionals monitor patients 24/7 to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Medications are administered as needed to alleviate distressing symptoms like tremors, seizures, and delirium tremens, making the detox process more comfortable and manageable.
Duration & Transition to Rehab
The length of alcohol detox varies based on the severity of addiction but typically lasts 5-7 days. After completing detox, patients may transition into an inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation program to continue their recovery journey through therapies and counseling that address the root causes of alcohol use disorder.
Alcohol Poisoning Risks
It’s important to seek professional help, as attempting to detox alone can be life-threatening. Alcohol poisoning is a serious risk when consuming too much alcohol in a short period, flooding the bloodstream and affecting vital functions like breathing and heart rate. Symptoms like confusion, vomiting, and loss of consciousness require immediate medical attention.
Comprehensive Treatment Plans
Detox is just the first step in a comprehensive addiction treatment plan. Upon admission, medical professionals thoroughly assess each patient’s unique needs to develop a personalized treatment strategy incorporating evidence-based therapies, holistic healing practices, and aftercare planning for sustained recovery success.
Conclusion
As you embark on your journey to recovery, understanding what to expect during alcohol detox is crucial. Remember, professional medical supervision is essential for safety and comfort. At Evoke Wellness at Miramar, we offer a comprehensive approach to alcohol addiction treatment, including medical detox, residential programs, and holistic therapies. Recent studies show that patients who complete a full continuum of care, from detox through aftercare, have significantly higher success rates in maintaining long-term sobriety. By choosing a program that addresses your unique needs and provides ongoing support through alumni and aftercare programs, you’re taking a vital step towards reclaiming your life from alcohol addiction. Your path to recovery starts here – reach out today to begin your transformation.
Begin Your Journey with Evoke Wellness at Miramar
If you or a loved one is considering treatment, Evoke Wellness at Miramar invites you to contact us. Our compassionate team is ready to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you take the first steps toward recovery. In Miramar, you’ll find more than just a treatment program – you’ll discover a community dedicated to your wellness and success. Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (833) 819-6066 today or reach out online.
