An alcohol detox is the removal of alcohol from the body and refers to the period immediately after a person has stopped drinking heavily. During that time, alcohol toxins, or poisons, leave the body. Since alcohol is both psychologically and physically addictive, this can be a very painful and miserable experience for a patient. The human body grows accustomed to the alcohol and goes through distressing symptoms when the alcohol is no longer there.

After a patient has committed to an alcoholic detox, alcohol withdrawal usually starts between five to ten hours after an individual’s last drink. The severity of the symptoms depends on how much and how long alcohol abuse has occurred. Symptoms of this withdrawal include: excessive sweating, shakiness, irritability and restlessness, anxiety, nausea, increase in blood pressure, or even seizures that can be deadly. These symptoms typically last up to10 days. During this time, it is important to follow a healthy nutritional plan.

Entering a detox center can be a challenge in itself for the alcoholic who may still be in denial about their alcoholism. However, this is the first step toward their recovery. The detoxification effectively prepares the addict for rehabilitation and treatment. There are many factors that can help ensure a safe recovery for the alcoholic. These include: getting rid of all the alcohol, dropping friends who may be tied to the problem, seeking and accepting support from friends or family, and preparing for the upcoming symptoms with the support of a professional.

At Solace Counseling, we offer an ambulatory (outpatient) detoxification program designed to safely detox patients from drugs and alcohol without a hospital admission. We hope that if you or someone you know is suffering with drug and alcohol abuse, you will contact us as soon as possible. For more helpful information, check us out on Facebook and Twitter.