You may be at a place in your life where you want to get sober. However, you may worry about experiencing the effects of withdrawal. Some substances can be harder on the body than others. People with severe addiction issues may benefit from a medical detox program. That can be the first step on a path to sobriety. Read on to find out more about detox and whether it might benefit your specific addiction.
What is Detox?
Drug and alcohol abuse causes chemical changes in the body that make it believe the substances are necessary to function. The changes can be extreme enough to where the body can no longer clean them out naturally. That can make it dangerous for a person to attempt withdrawal without medical assistance.
A detox program allows individuals to rid their bodies of toxins from drugs and alcohol under the supervision of medical professionals. That way, someone can intervene if that person starts experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms that threaten their health.
What Substances May Require Detox?
Below are some examples of the kinds of substances that might require a medical detox.
- Alcohol — People diagnosed with alcoholism can be vulnerable to feelings of paranoia and overall shakiness. If they have been addicted to alcohol for ten years or more, they can have a higher risk of delirium tremens. Medical detox is essential for those with a severe alcohol use disorder.
- Benzodiazepines — Some people develop an addiction to prescription drugs like Valium and Klonopin. They can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures. Observation in a medical detox program can keep people from having a medical event that could lead to death.
- Amphetamines — Withdrawal from drugs like Ritalin and methamphetamine can cause unusual brain activity. That’s because the brain gets used to being in a state of heightened activity. You might exhibit strange behavior or experience episodes of psychosis. Getting detox treatment can keep you safe as you undergo withdrawal.
What Happens During Detox?
Each person has different detox needs. When you enroll yourself in a detox program, they can assess you and determine the best treatment course. That can include taking blood to measure the amount of drugs or alcohol currently in your system. Your treatment specialists will also evaluate your physical, mental, and substance abuse history to help them develop a long-term plan to address your addiction.
After that, the staff will work to stabilize you and keep you safe from harm. The treatment center may offer you the option of taking medications that can minimize your withdrawal symptoms and prevent further complications. The therapy provided during your detox can help you decide your next steps in dealing with your addiction.
What Are the Side Effects of Detox?
Going through withdrawal can be an excruciating experience. It’s why so many people hesitate to start the path toward sobriety. Medical detox offers people the opportunity to go through the process in a safe and therapeutic environment. That means someone is there to help you manage withdrawal symptoms, which might include:
- Feelings of nervousness or anxiety
- Insomnia
- General body discomfort
- Mood swings
- Problems concentrating
- Nausea
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Hallucinations
- Delirium
- Seizures
Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the substance you are taking and the length of your addiction. Some people may experience physical withdrawal for up to a week. However, they may continue feeling the psychological effects for a more extended period. That’s where it helps to have a plan for long-term addiction treatment.
Detox Services at Midwest Detox Center
Midwest Detox Center provides comprehensive care to all clients enrolled in our detox program. Our facility also offers treatment options for various addiction issues, including:
- Alcohol addiction treatment program
- Drug addiction treatment program
- Opioid addiction treatment program
- Prescription drug addiction treatment program
- Medication-assisted treatment program
Call Midwest Detox Center at 833.647.0392, or contact us online to find out more about our detox programs.
