Are you looking to take the first step towards healing your body and mind from alcohol and drug use? Integrative Life Center understands that this can be a daunting process, but rest assured that we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with the support and guidance you need to reclaim your health and well-being. For many people seeking help recovering from alcohol or drug abuse, the first step in recovery is detoxifying their body of substances. It is important to understand that detoxing from alcohol and drugs may initially cause detox symptoms.
What Are Detox Symptoms?
When a person uses a substance for an extended period of time, their body becomes accustomed to the presence of the substance. This leads to a physical and psychological dependence on the substance, and when the person stops using it, their body reacts to the sudden absence of the substance. We refer to these reactions as withdrawal, and it can cause a range of uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms – this is what detox symptoms are.
How Long Do Detox Symptoms Last?
Withdrawal symptoms can vary widely depending on the substance and the person. So just how long do detox symptoms last? For example, someone withdrawing from alcohol may experience symptoms such as tremors, seizures, and hallucinations. In contrast, someone detoxing from opioids may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain. The duration and intensity of use also play a role in the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Someone who has been using a substance heavily for a long time is likely to experience more severe withdrawal symptoms than someone who has only used the substance for a short period.
Individual differences in physiology also play a role in how a person experiences withdrawal symptoms. Some people may be more susceptible to certain symptoms than others, and some may experience more severe symptoms overall. It’s important to note that withdrawal can be a potentially dangerous process, and it should always be done under medical supervision to ensure the safety of the individual going through it.
Who Experiences Withdrawal Symptoms?
Withdrawal symptoms can affect individuals differently based on factors such as gender, age, and the type of addiction. For instance, research has shown that women may sometimes experience more severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal than men due to differences in metabolism and hormonal fluctuations. Age can also play a role, with older individuals often experiencing more intense symptoms due to the longer duration of substance use.
The type of addiction can also impact the severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms. For example, individuals dependent on opioids may experience flu-like symptoms. In contrast, those with alcohol dependence may experience seizures and delirium tremens. Despite these differences, detox should always be conducted under medical supervision, regardless of the individual’s age, gender, or addiction type. Medical professionals can provide the necessary care and support to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure a safe and successful detoxification process.
What Are Common Detox Symptoms of Alcohol and Drugs?
Detox symptoms can manifest in a variety of ways, both physically and psychologically. Understanding what detox symptoms are is important. These are common detox symptoms of drugs and alcohol and the types of addiction that may cause them:
- Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep (Alcohol addiction, Opioid addiction, Stimulant addiction)
- Anxiety: Feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease (Alcohol addiction, Opioid addiction, Benzodiazepine addiction)
- Depression: Feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of interest (Stimulant addiction, Opioid addiction)
- Sweating: Excessive sweating (Alcohol addiction, Opioid addiction, Benzodiazepine addiction)
- Muscle aches: Muscular discomfort or pain (Opioid addiction, Stimulant addiction)
- Irritability: Feeling easily annoyed or agitated (Alcohol addiction, Stimulant addiction, Benzodiazepine addiction)
- Nausea and vomiting: Feeling of sickness and vomiting (Alcohol addiction, Opioid addiction, Benzodiazepine addiction)
- Tremors: Shaking or trembling (Alcohol addiction, Stimulant addiction)
- Seizures: Sudden, uncontrolled movements or loss of consciousness (Alcohol addiction, Benzodiazepine addiction)
- Diarrhea: Frequent bowel movements or watery stools (Opioid addiction)
- Agitation: Feeling of restlessness or unease (Benzodiazepine addiction)
- Headaches: Pain or discomfort in the head or neck region (Benzodiazepine addiction)
- Psychosis: Loss of touch with reality (Benzodiazepine addiction)
How long detox symptoms last varies widely, and it is important to note that not everyone will experience all of these symptoms during withdrawal. The severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their addiction. Seeking professional medical help during withdrawal is highly recommended to help you understand what detox symptoms of alcohol and drugs are and how to manage and alleviate these symptoms.
When Do Withdrawal Symptoms Occur?
The onset of withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the substance. For example:
- Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol may begin within hours after the last drink and reach their peak within a few days.
- Symptoms of opioid withdrawal typically start within 6-12 hours after the last dose and peak within 1-3 days.
- Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms may start within 1-4 days after discontinuation and can last for weeks or even months.
Where Can I Get Help with Withdrawal Symptoms?
If you’re struggling with addiction and require assistance with the detoxification process, look for a holistic detox center to provide help. We do not offer a detox center at this time, but we understand that detoxification is holistic. A healthy detox considers all aspects of the recovery process, including physical symptoms and emotional and spiritual well-being. Once you have completed medically-supervised detox, our treatment center can help you begin to heal:
- Experienced and compassionate staff: Our clinicians, therapists, and support staff are dedicated to helping you achieve lasting recovery.
- Individualized treatment plans: We understand that everyone is unique, so we tailor our treatment approach to meet your needs and goals.
- Holistic approach: We believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to promote wellness, healing and recovery.
- Experiential therapies: From yoga and meditation to art therapy and outdoor activities, we offer a variety of experiential therapies to complement traditional drug addiction treatment methods.
Learning How to Reduce Detox Symptoms
The detoxification process can be uncomfortable, there are steps you can to reduce detox symptoms:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from your body and stay hydrated.
- Eat nutritious foods: Fuel your body with healthy foods to support your physical and emotional well-being.
- Get plenty of rest: Listen to your body and prioritize restorative sleep to help your body heal.
- Practice self-care: Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether taking a bath, going for a walk, or spending time with loved ones.Taking a social media detox can also be self-care.
- Reach out for support: Don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or professional support when needed.
If you would like to speak with someone further about how to reduce detox symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Let Us Help You on Your Healing Journey at ILC in Nashville, TN
ILC understands that detoxification can present challenges, but we believe in your ability to heal and transform. You don’t have to face this journey alone – our team is here to provide compassionate care and support. If you’re ready to take the first step towards recovery, please give us a call at (615) 891-2226 and take a look at our addiction recovery resources. Together, we can help you break free from addiction and embark on a path towards lasting wellness and vitality.
