Detoxification is the process of eliminating a substance from your body. Drug and alcohol detox is often the first step on the road to recovery. Anyone who has been physically and psychologically dependent upon a drug will need to cleanse themselves of the drug in order to heal. A detox program offers support and medical care during this challenging time.
Detoxification may bring uncomfortable experiences that can last up to 72 hours after the drug’s last use. Withdrawal symptoms may be more or less intense, depending on the severity of the addiction. It’s important to know that because withdrawal experiences can be challenging, the first 72 hours is often the window in which people want to desperately reach for the drug again in order to avoid discomfort. Yet, if they can make it through the first few days of detoxification, they are more likely to continue without relapse.
Also, keep in mind that 72 hours is an estimate. Depending upon the substance, this window of time could be either more or less than 72 hours. What’s important to remember is that the first few days of detox may be the most challenging. Similarly, the effects that a person experiences during detox will vary depending on the drug, length of use, and addiction severity. Learn more about the detox process and reach out to a luxury rehab and recovery center for support today.
Common Withdrawal Symptoms
For those addicted to heroin, detox may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Insomnia
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heart rate
- Rising blood pressure
Symptoms from alcohol withdrawal can range from mild anxiety to severe physical complications, including seizures and tremors. In addition, you might experience:
- Shaky hands
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Mild anxiety
- Irritability
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Headaches
- Hallucinations (visual, auditory, or tactile)
- Seizures (can occur either as a single clearing seizure or as a brief episode of multiple seizures.)
Detoxing from the abuse of prescription pain medication may involve:
- Diarrhea
- Excessive yawning
- Large pupils
- Abdominal pain
- Chills and goosebumps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Body aches
- Agitation and bad moods
Withdrawal from ecstasy may include the following experiences:
- General fatigue
- Low levels of energy
- Feelings of exhaustion
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Constipation
The best way to avoid significant complications when detoxing is to obtain a medical professional’s support. It’s particularly important to seek medical attention because there may be complications that develop during the process. In fact, because there are not only physical effects but also psychological and emotional effects, it’s also beneficial to work with a mental health provider as you go through the process. You might talk to a therapist or psychologist at an addiction treatment therapy program to support a smooth and easy transition through the detox.
Find Support to Help You Through Detox
Some people might attempt to detox on their own, which can be dangerous if they experience painful withdrawal symptoms and can lead to relapse. Undergoing a self-detox is not recommended. As you can imagine, creating a detox experience of your own can be incredibly challenging and even dangerous.
Reach Out to Westwind Recovery® Today
If you’re struggling with an addiction to any drug, find a professional to support you in getting sober and to guide you safely through detoxification. This can be a challenging experience. As a result, it’s important to have the right medical and mental health support. You might consider staying in close contact with a medical doctor, therapist, family member, and good friend during your process of detoxification. Often, detox is followed by addiction treatment or time in a sober living home. Discuss these options with a professional to determine which is next for you.
At Westwind Recovery®, we offer high-quality treatment in a peaceful environment. Our addiction treatment programs provide support and medical care for the early days of recovery. Contact us today to learn more.
