Alcohol Detox is the process of safely reducing or withdrawing from alcohol. It can be a challenging and painful experience.
If you are dependent on alcohol, detox may be necessary to break the cycle of addiction. Treatment programs can help you through this difficult period and get you on the road to recovery.
Medical supervision
Medical supervision is an important aspect of an alcohol detox to ensure your safety and comfort. Withdrawal symptoms can be painful, unpleasant, and even life-threatening if not properly managed.
During alcohol detox, you’re in close contact with physicians, nurses, therapists, dieticians and other health professionals to provide support during your journey. They will be able to provide medications, supplements, and support that will make your experience more comfortable.
Your detox program will include specific medications to help reduce or prevent uncomfortable and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Anticonvulsant medication may also be used to minimize the risk of delirium tremors (DT) and seizures.
Delirium tremors can be fatal so it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately. The severity of DT can vary depending on the person’s level of alcohol dependence and overall health.
Medications
A person who has become addicted to alcohol is at risk of developing life-threatening withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking. These symptoms can include delirium tremens and seizures, and could lead to death.
Medications can help reduce or eliminate the severity of withdrawal symptoms. They are typically used together with talk therapy and support groups.
The most commonly used medications for treating alcohol withdrawal syndrome are benzodiazepines (alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam). They are safe and effective when taken for a short period of time.
However, prolonged use of these drugs can cause memory problems and addiction. They also can cause severe liver damage if they are not used with caution.
Another drug that is sometimes used for alcohol detox is carbamazepine, which can help relieve anxiety and depression while reducing cravings for alcohol. This medicine is not as effective as benzodiazepines, but it can be safer if you have a history of liver problems. It is usually prescribed in an inpatient setting.
Support
Alcoholism is a brain disease that can be difficult to treat without professional help. It’s often accompanied by physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms, which can be painful and dangerous.
A good treatment program will include detox, which can be a crucial step toward long-term recovery. This is particularly important if a person has been drinking for a long time, has co-occurring mental health issues, or if they are suffering from serious medical conditions such as heart disease or lung disease.
During an alcohol detox, a medical team will monitor a person’s vital signs. They may also administer medications such as benzodiazepines to manage seizures and other symptoms of withdrawal.
Eating
Detoxing from alcohol can be a time of significant loss of appetite. A dietary plan that supports the body’s natural detoxification process can help minimize withdrawal symptoms and improve a patient’s overall health and well-being.
Eating properly can also help a person avoid nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin A, B, C and D, calcium, iron, magnesium and zinc. Nutrient deficiencies can exacerbate symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and make it more difficult for a person to recover.
Foods with complex carbohydrates are important during an alcohol detox because they stabilize blood sugar levels and provide vitamins, minerals and fiber. They also take longer to digest, allowing a person to feel full for a longer period of time.
Low-fat proteins, such as lean beef, fish, eggs and skinless chicken, provide a boost of energy and reduce emotional symptoms associated with detox. Proteins are also essential for muscle repair and maintenance during an alcohol detox.
