What is alcohol withdrawal and which are the best alcohol detox treatments

When one consumes alcohol excessively and more frequently, he or she may get addicted to it over a period of time. Alcohol withdrawal is a health condition which a person addicted to alcohol may face, when he/she suddenly stops the intake of alcohol. The severity of alcohol withdrawal symptoms may vary depending on the extent of addiction. People who have mild withdrawal symptoms may be able to undergo alcohol detox treatments without any major concerns. However, heavy drinkers might have to seek expert medical advice to deal with alcohol withdrawal during detox.

Alcohol addiction can affect the brain functioning by disrupting connections between neurons, leading to problems related to coordination and judgement. When someone drinks excessively, his/her brain will become more tolerant to these conditions, due to which, he/she may feel the urge to drink more. In such a situation, when they stop drinking suddenly, their nervous system is not ready to accept this change, leading to withdrawal.

To overcome these withdrawal symptoms, a heavy drinker may drink alcohol compulsively which eventually leads to further health complications and problems in relationships as well. The short-term health risks include injuries and accidents, while long-term health issues include high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, digestive problems, weakening of immune system, memory problems, mental problems, depression, loss of productivity, family problems, unemployment etc.

What are the common alcohol withdrawal symptoms?

The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal could differ from person to person depending on the extent of abuse. Listed below are some of the commonly found symptoms

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Hallucination
• Sweating
• Shaking
• Insomnia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Increased blood pressure and heartrate

What is alcohol detox treatment?

Alcohol detox treatment is a program which includes medication and other support mechanisms to deal with physical and mental health issues that may arise during withdrawal. Medicines like Benzodiazepines, naltrexone etc. may be administrated by the doctors if required to control the withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms generally last for a week and hits the highest level or severity within 24 to 72 hours. The treatment would generally start with a detailed analysis about your physical and mental health conditions with a series of tests and consultations. These programs are mostly of two kinds, inpatient and outpatient.

Inpatient treatment programs are where the person who is addicted has to stay at the detox or rehab center till the end of the treatment. There will be a special team of doctors and medical experts to monitor your condition constantly.

Outpatient treatment programs are where the person suffering from alcohol addiction can engage in their daily activities like job, relationship, academics etc. while they are going through the treatment. There are many good Alcohol Rehabs in New Jersey that offer effective outpatient detox treatments with proven results for better outcomes. Whenever you look for an alcohol detox center, you must enquire about certain information from the very beginning. This includes details about insurance plans, counselling etc. You must also find out if the staff is well-trained and if they assist you after a relapse as well. The road to recovery is not always easy and there are high chances of relapse. Regular counselling is required to learn different coping mechanisms to combat stressors and triggers of addiction.

Apart from counselling and medication, there are different types of therapies that may help in changing the behavioral patterns of the person undergoing alcohol detox. Last but not least, support from family and friends plays a very important role during the recovery period. One has to be determined and focussed to travel the path of de-addiction.

Sumit Nair is author who writes articles on topics related to academics and importance of cbse education in our society. Article also portrays the Importance of Cbse Schools in Pune for Kids’ Future.