People struggling with alcohol addiction find it extremely difficult to ask for help. However, if they have made the hard decision to get sober, there are people and programs to guide them through that process. The first step of getting sober from alcohol is to undergo alcohol detox.
During alcohol addiction, the body gets used to or dependent on having alcohol on a regular basis. This means that when someone quits using alcohol, they start to experience withdrawal symptoms shortly after quitting. Alcohol withdrawal is not only uncomfortable but is also potentially dangerous if not done under careful supervision.
At a medical detox center in West Palm Beach, people going through alcohol withdrawal are monitored in order to help them quit drinking as safely as possible. They will have medical professionals administering medications to make the process more comfortable and prevent any complications. Here’s what you can expect during alcohol detox in West Palm Beach.
Signs of Alcohol Addiction and Withdrawal
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction and withdrawal helps people identify if alcohol detox is right for them. During alcohol addiction, people need to continue to drink more frequently and in larger amounts of alcohol as their addiction progresses. This is because the body becomes accustomed to having alcohol – a phenomenon otherwise known as tolerance. Their body needs more alcohol in order to feel drunk.[1]
People who are addicted to alcohol will not only crave more of it, but they will also experience physical symptoms if they stop drinking abruptly. The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Seizures [2]
These symptoms are a result of the body attempting to readjust to no longer having alcohol. In order for someone to get used to no longer having alcohol anymore, they must go through detox. During detox, alcohol and the harmful bi-products of drinking are eliminated, allowing someone to once again function without alcohol.
Alcohol Withdrawal and Detox Timeline
Alcohol withdrawal starts as soon as 6 hours after a person’s last drink. The initial symptoms are generally mild and start with nausea, anxiety, and muscle tremors.[2] These symptoms continue to worsen.
12-72 hours after quitting drinking are when the more serious complications of alcohol withdrawal occur. This includes a condition known as delirium tremens (DTs), which are characterized by fevers, hallucinations, and even seizures.[2] DTs are a very serious symptom of alcohol withdrawal that requires immediate medical attention.
After the first 72 hours to a week, withdrawal symptoms improve and the person is no longer at high risk of alcohol withdrawal complications. People still experience more mild, lingering symptoms for months or even up to a year after getting sober. These symptoms are part of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) and are managed with a combination of inpatient alcohol rehab, therapy, and medications.[3]
Treatment for Alcohol Withdrawal
The treatment for alcohol withdrawal is medical detox. Detox for alcohol withdrawal is done either outpatient or inpatient depending on the severity of the withdrawal symptoms and what the person is comfortable with.
Outpatient Alcohol Detox in West Palm Beach
During outpatient alcohol detox, a person will check in daily at the detox center to give staff an update on their condition as well as get their medications to manage symptoms. People will then return to sleep in their own homes. While outpatient detox is less disruptive to peoples’ lives, it is not generally recommended for alcohol withdrawal due to the potential for serious complications.[4]
Inpatient Alcohol Detox
Inpatient alcohol detox provides 24/7 monitoring during the withdrawal process. This means medical professionals can recognize if a complication is going to occur beforehand by frequently assessing the person and checking vital signs.
People will also have an initial evaluation by a therapist to discuss any of their concerns and anxieties about getting sober. In addition to this, medications are given to reduce any discomfort caused by withdrawal symptoms.[4]
Find An Alcohol Detox in West Palm Beach Today
If you have made the difficult decision to get sober, it is important to seek help immediately. The first obstacle to overcome will be getting through alcohol withdrawal and detox. Finding the right alcohol detox for you will make the experience more comfortable.
At Daylight Recovery Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, we are here to help you successfully get through alcohol detox and overcome your addiction. Our detox center has highly trained staff members to guide you through the process and ensure you remain as comfortable as possible.
You will have access to licensed therapists and medical staff to safely monitor your progress. Staff will work with you closely to develop a detox as well as an aftercare plan that meets your unique needs. We will provide you with the tools you need to start your recovery journey. Call us today to get started.
