Alcohol
Detox
What does it mean to enter an alcohol detox? The definition of detoxification
is as follows: "A treatment for addiction to drugs or alcohol intended
to rid the body of the addictive substances, and the physiological and mental
readjustment that accompanies the process." This definition refers to the
physical withdrawal symptoms of alcohol abuse, as well as the psychological
symptoms.
Alcoholism requires detoxification before beginning treatment and recovery.
When alcohol residuals remain in the body, cravings will continue and recovery
from alcohol addiction will be very difficult to achieve. Alcohol detox should
be done under the care of a licensed medical facility. Attempting to detox from
alcohol without the proper professional help is extremely dangerous. It can
result in serious physical, psychological, and emotional consequences which
can include death.
The intensity and severity of the withdrawal symptoms due to the discontinuation
of alcohol depend on the usage history of the individual. Each alcohol detox
program is unique to the individual in regards to the duration of time and special
care they may require.
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include sweating, rapid pulse, increased hand
tremors, insomnia, nausea or vomiting, physical agitation, anxiety, auditory
hallucinations, and the possibility of grand mal seizures. These physical and
emotional symptoms may be extremely severe depending on the individual's alcohol
abuse history. For this reason alcohol withdrawal, alcohol detox, and alcohol
addiction treatment should be done at an authorized treatment center.
