If you are an addict to alcohol, detoxification is the method to get rid of the toxic effects of alcohol and to relieve you from the addiction altogether. If you are trying to do self detox, it is better to know all about alcohol detoxification. If you think that you will not be able to manage it alone you can get the help of the rehab facility.
What Are Withdrawal Symptoms?
If you are addicted to alcohol, you will be having a strong desire to take alcohol. Your body will find it difficult to handle the no alcohol situation. You may start developing withdrawal symptoms about 3-8 hours after you had your last drink. Withdrawal symptoms make it difficult to detoxify and to get rid of the habit. The important withdrawal symptoms include shivering or trembling, feeling sick, sweating, craving for alcohol, headache, etc. In some people convulsions also occur.How Long Will It Take To Get Over The Withdrawal Symptoms?
The withdrawal symptoms will be more acute in the first 2-4 days and it will completely disappear within one week. However the craving for alcohol may continue. Alcoholism affects the communication network of the brain and it will take some time for the brain to adjust to the new condition. The extent of withdrawal symptoms and the duration to get over the problem will vary from person to person. It depends on the intensity of your addiction and how long you have been in the habit, the efficiency of your metabolism etc.How To Deal With The Withdrawal Symptoms?
When you are undergoing detoxification you can expect the withdrawal symptoms, so prepare yourself and your family about the situation. The support of your friends and family will be of great help to get through the situation. There are medications available to reduce the withdrawal symptoms. Your GP will be able to prescribe the medication to prevent the withdrawal symptoms in the initial days. You can gradually reduce the dose of these medications over the next one week and you will be able to avoid any unpleasant withdrawal systems.Rehabilitation Facilities
There are some rehab facilities which offer in-house detoxification program. If you are a chronic alcoholic and if you think you won’t get the support from your family or society or if you have the history of severe withdrawal symptoms or any physical illness caused by the use of alcohol, you can opt for these facilities to get the detoxification done there. Detoxification does not include rehab. To completely recover from the addition of alcohol you may need rehab. Many people return back to the habit due to the absence of the proper supporting system. A rehab will be able to provide you the necessary support to refrain from the habit forever. Your chances of success will be more if you get the rehab support after the detoxification. So, do not hesitate to get support even if you choose detoxify at home. The chances of going back to alcoholism reduce if you have proper counseling or other support to keep off from alcohol.
