WHAT IS DETOX AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Detoxification is a procedure under medical supervision intended to help a patient with alcohol and drug withdrawal. The drug must be physically eliminated from the body and given time to normalize in order for someone to detox effectively from a substance. Withdrawal from substances like benzodiazepines or alcohol can be lethal. Thus a medical detox is required to stop the symptoms from becoming life-threatening. Additionally, while withdrawal from substances like opiates or stimulants seldom results in death, the symptoms can be excruciatingly uncomfortable and painful. The safest choice is to undergo detox under the continual observation of medical professionals. Inpatient detox patients receive comfort medication prescriptions to help with withdrawal symptoms.

EXPECTED SYMPTOMS OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL WITHDRAWAL

The withdrawal experience can produce various physical and mental symptoms that impact one’s health. These are some of the potential signs:

• Mood swings
• Chills
• Tremors
• Anxiety
• Intense sweating
• Insomnia/Sleep problems
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Shaking

Other issues that withdrawal may cause include:

• Immune deficiency
• Psychosis
• Self-harm
• Hallucinations
• Illness
• Mental health issues

WHEN TO SEEK A DETOX PROGRAM?

Admission to a medically supervised detox clinic is your best option if you are addicted to drugs or alcohol or are experiencing active withdrawal to stop using the substance in the safest way possible. Although it is a vital step to start the recovery process, deciding to accept that you have a problem and enrolling in a detox program can be quite challenging.

HOW WILL DRUG AND ALCOHOL DETOX HELP ME?

Substance dependence on the physical level can be treated with medically assisted detox. Detoxification can be difficult, but programs are prepared to provide drugs and a safe environment to help ease the process. Opioid withdrawal symptoms can be treated with medications like Suboxone or Methadone. After the patient has stabilized, the drugs can be gradually reduced over the course of several days or perhaps a week.  

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF DETOX

Inpatient detox – Inpatient detox is when a patient stays overnight in a hospital where they will be closely observed. Relapse can be avoided and emergencies can be handled better with the round-the-clock care that is provided by inpatient programs. After patients have gone through detox, many programs will help them transition into long-term substance abuse treatment facilities.

Outpatient detox – Since regular medical care is crucial during detox, outpatient detox is rarely suggested. However, this may prove useful for those dealing with less serious addictions. People who have obligations at home or in the office may fall into this category.

TIPS FOR DETOX

• Get help from an experienced detox center
• Support system – ask friends and family for help
• Eat a healthy diet
• Exercise regularly
• Get rest

DRUG AND ALCOHOL DETOX NEAR ME

Do not wait to contact OS Recovery if you or a loved one requires detox assistance. Our free consultation is designed to assist you in locating the most suitable detox facility in Rhode Island.