Everyone has different needs when it comes to treating alcohol use disorder (AUD), a condition that can be diagnosed when a pattern of alcohol use is problematic and causes significant distress. Some people with alcohol use disorder become dependent on alcohol and have withdrawal symptoms when they suddenly stop drinking. The effect of withdrawal on the body and mind can be uncomfortable and dangerous. Here at our rehab facility in Cincinnati, OH, we can help you or a loved one overcome this, and our alcohol detox program can save you or a loved one’s life.

What Is Alcohol Detox?

Alcohol detox is the elimination of alcohol from the body after the body has adjusted itself chemically to regularly having the substance. Detox is done to help the body get through withdrawal symptoms, and it can be done in an outpatient or inpatient medical detox setting.

The alcohol detox stage is the first step in treating alcoholism. During this time, alcohol is completely flushed from your body. A period of detox is required because a physical dependence on alcohol produces lasting alterations in normal brain function. In order to correct these alterations and begin the path to sobriety, you must first break the active cycle of dependence.

The Process of Alcohol Detox

Alcohol detoxification is the preparatory step before a longer treatment program. Detoxification can be safely performed at both inpatient and outpatient facilities. The steps for alcohol detox include the following:

• Intake – The medical team will do a comprehensive review of the drug, medical, and psychiatric histories of incoming patients to fully understand each situation.
• Medication – Many detoxification programs include medications that mimic the effects of alcohol to mitigate withdrawal symptoms. Medications may also target co-occurring disorders or provide general comfort.
• Stabilization – The patient undergoes medical and psychological therapies to help them reach a  balance of mind and body.

How Long Is Alcohol Detox?

Minor detox symptoms may show up in just 2 to 6 hours after your last drink. They will typically peak in 1 to 3 days for those with AUD but may last for a week for those who suffer from this condition and drink more heavily. Persistent withdrawal symptoms are relatively rare, but in these cases, they may last for a month or more.

Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), many people going through withdrawal experience the following:

• Anxiety and irritability
• Mood swings
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating and clamminess
• Insomnia and nightmares
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Why Should You Seek Out an Alcohol Detox Program?

When someone decides to put an end to their alcohol addiction, their first step is to remove the substance from their body and go through the detox process. If a person is physically or psychologically dependent on alcohol, the thought of undertaking this process may feel impossible. An alcohol addiction treatment program can help the patient through this challenging period and allow them to achieve their goal of complete recovery.

Recover With Legacy Healing Center in Ohio

When a patient reaches out to the alcohol detox program at Legacy Healing Center in Cincinnati, OH, they learn right away that they are not alone on their road to recovery. We strive to provide long-lasting support to our patients and can promise we will be there for you every step of the way.

For more information about our levels of care and other therapy programs, call Legacy Healing Center today at (513) 586-4971.

Related Readings:

Is Alcohol Considered a Drug?

The Different Types of Alcoholism