Unfortunately, a quarter of Americans go through alcohol withdrawal with signs and symptoms such as nausea, tremors, and confusion.
If you’re experiencing the worst of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, it’s easy to reach for a drink. Alcohol withdrawal can also set you up for relapse. If you or a loved one is ready for an alcohol detox, you’re in the right place!
Keep reading to learn about the stages of alcohol detox and how to get through them safely.
Evaluation
During the evaluation stage, medical professionals will assess the patient’s health. This includes any underlying health conditions that may have contributed to the patient’s alcohol use. This may include a review of the patient’s medical history, as well as a physical examination to assess the patient’s current physical health status.
Medical professionals will check the patient’s level of alcohol use. This includes the frequency and duration of drinking, as well as any patterns of binge drinking or alcohol abuse. This information is critical in developing an effective detox plan that fits the patient’s unique needs.
Stabilization
The stabilization stage is the second stage of alcohol detox. It is focused on stabilizing the patient’s physical and mental health. This stage is critical because it sets the foundation for the actual detox process that follows.
Whether it’s outpatient rehab, medical professionals will focus on managing the patient’s withdrawal symptoms. This may involve medication to help ease symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. They will also address any underlying conditions.
Withdrawal
The withdrawal stage is the third stage of alcohol detox. It is the actual process of detoxification. This is where the patient’s body begins to cut alcohol from the system.
Withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the patient’s alcohol use. Medical professionals will closely monitor the patient during this stage. They will give medication and other forms of support to help ease symptoms and manage any potential complications.
The duration can vary and may last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. During this time, patients may experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms.
Rehabilitation
The rehabilitation stage is the fourth and final stage of alcohol detox. It focuses on providing patients with support and resources. It helps maintain their sobriety and achieve long-term recovery.
Patients may receive education on the following:
- Coping skills
- Stress management techniques
- Healthy lifestyle habits
The length and intensity of the rehabilitation stage can vary depending on the patient’s needs and individual circumstances. Some patients may receive ongoing support for years. Others may only require short-term support to maintain their sobriety.
Start the Alcohol Detox Today
Alcohol detox is a difficult, multi-step process that requires the help of a medical professional. During the process, individuals must understand the various stages and be committed to abstaining from alcohol.
Following detox, a long-term recovery plan must be established to remain alcohol-free.
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