Detoxification is the first step on the road to any kind of addiction recovery. Alcohol detox can be extremely unpleasant and may last up to 6 weeks. However, in the first 3, the symptoms are the most severe. Whether it occurs at home or in a treatment center, detox is the recovery from the physical dependence of alcohol. However, it comes with serious side effects, some of which will linger, causing mental and emotional anguish. Plus, even though detox is the first step and a major milestone in overcoming the addiction, there is still a long road to recovery ahead.
The withdrawal symptoms of alcohol detox usually begin within 6 to 24 hours after taking the the last drink. They range greatly depending on the person, the amount of alcohol they are used to consuming, and the length of time they have had the problem. However, common symptoms may include headaches, cold sweats, anxiety, agitation, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, a rapid pulse, and auditory hallucinations. More severe symptoms that are less common include tremors, delirium, autonomic hyperactivity, and even grand mal seizures.
Within a alcohol detox facility, under the care of professionals, there are some medications that can be administered to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms, such as benzidiazephines and anti-convulsants. However, many addicts will give up and drop out of detox before the process has been completed. Therefore, the main function of a professional facility is to monitor those who are undergoing the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, offering support and encouragement, but most importantly, supervision. Other addicts may choose to detox from home, sometimes enlisting the help of friends or family for support. Even after detox has occurred, the addict will continue to have strong cravings for alcohol and must follow up with continual treatment.
