If you've been struggling with alcohol addiction, a medically supervised detox program can help. This will minimize the severe symptoms of withdrawal and prepare you for a life without alcohol.
Typically, withdrawal symptoms start to subside within a week. However, if you've had heavy use or been drinking for years, your symptoms may last longer.
Medications
Medications are an important part of a detox process and can help ease pain, suppress withdrawal symptoms, and prevent complications like seizures. They should only be administered by qualified medical professionals to ensure your safety and well-being at all times.
Benzodiazepines ("benzos") are first-choice medications for alcohol withdrawal. These drugs are effective, safe and have a good track record in clinical studies.
Diazepam (Valium) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) are long-acting benzodiazepines that work by blocking the effect of alcohol in the brain. These drugs are safe when used for short periods of time, and they may be combined with other medications to control withdrawal symptoms.
Naltrexone is a medication that can help reduce cravings in alcoholic patients. It comes in tablet and injectable forms, and it can be a valuable tool for relapse prevention.
Disulfiram, a medication that inhibits the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, is also used for alcohol addiction. It is an effective treatment but can be dangerous if abused by the patient.
Diet
The diet you eat as part of an alcohol detox process can help alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal and restore your body to a healthy state. Often called an “alcohol cleanse diet,” the foods you eat will replenish your nutrient deficiencies and provide support to your liver, kidneys and other organs as they work to remove toxins from your system.
During this time, it is important to eat a healthy diet rich in whole grains, low-fat proteins and vitamin B-rich foods. These nutrients can improve digestion and strengthen the liver and kidneys, your body’s most essential detox organs.
Fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps your digestive system during withdrawal. They also contain water-soluble vitamins that help flush out toxins and maintain your hydration levels. They’re also good sources of carbohydrates, which are needed to restore your energy levels and balance your blood sugar.
Staying hydrated
Staying hydrated is a vital part of a detox process. Drinking water can help flush out toxins and also curb substance cravings.
During withdrawal, your body will lose a large amount of fluids and you may feel dehydrated. If you experience increased thirst, confusion, vomiting, a weak or dry mouth, sluggishness, or any other signs of dehydration, it’s important to drink water.
If you’re unsure of how much water to drink during alcohol detox, consult with a health professional. They can provide you with the correct amount of water for your weight and health condition.
Getting hydrated is an essential part of any detox process and should be done as soon as possible after you stop drinking. By doing so, you can avoid dehydration, which can cause a number of dangerous withdrawal symptoms and make your recovery process more difficult.
Monitoring
Alcohol withdrawal can be a nasty business. Thankfully, there are many programs available to help you through the process in a safe and supportive environment.
Monitoring your progress is a critical component of any successful alcohol detox program. You’ll be under the watchful eye of a treatment specialist who will be monitoring your physiology and your moods to ensure you don’t relapse and that you have a happy healthy recovery.
Your doctor or medical professional may ask you for your drinking history, as well as a few questions about your symptoms to help them make their recommendations. For example, if you’re having trouble with a high blood pressure, they can prescribe you an antihypertensive medication to keep your heart rate under control. A good rehab clinic will also offer you a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan to address your specific needs. This might include cognitive behavioral therapy, group or individual counseling and a robust support network of peers.
