What to Expect in Alcohol Detox
Choosing to heal from alcohol addiction is a brave and important decision. The first step in this journey is often an alcohol detox program. Sanford Behavioral Health can offer support with this step and other steps in addiction recovery.
We provide a compassionate and structured alcohol detox treatment program to help patients safely navigate this critical phase. Call 616.202.3326 to learn more about the detox process. Understanding what to expect can bring peace of mind and help you prepare for your journey to sobriety.
What Is Alcohol Detox?
Alcohol detox marks the first step in treating alcohol addiction, aimed at cleansing the body of toxins and restoring physical stability. Typically lasting seven to 10 days, the duration can vary based on factors like the patient’s health and the severity of their addiction. This critical phase lays the foundation for recovery, preparing the body for the journey ahead.
During this period, people may experience withdrawal symptoms as their body adjusts to functioning without alcohol. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe complications, which is why medical supervision is crucial during this phase.
Alcohol Detox Symptoms: What to Know
The symptoms experienced during alcohol detox can range from mild to severe, depending on factors like the length and amount of alcohol use, overall health, and co-occurring conditions.
Common alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:
- Mild symptoms – Anxiety, nausea, sweating, headaches, and tremors.
- Moderate symptoms – Increased heart rate, confusion, irritability, and heightened blood pressure.
- Severe symptoms – Seizures, hallucinations, or delirium tremens (DTs), a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
These symptoms can be unpredictable and may require medical intervention to manage, making supervised detox the safest option for those seeking recovery from alcohol addiction.
What to Expect in Alcohol Detox
Detox generally occurs in three stages, each presenting unique challenges and changes in symptoms. Here’s what to know about the stages of alcohol detox:
Stage 1: Mild Withdrawal – Six to 12 Hours After the Last Drink
- Symptoms can include shaking, nausea, anxiety, headaches, and insomnia.
- During this stage, patients may start feeling discomfort as their body reacts to the absence of alcohol.
Stage 2: Peak Withdrawal – 24 to 72 Hours After the Last Drink
- Symptoms can include elevated heart rate, confusion, increased blood pressure, and severe anxiety.
- This stage is often the most intense, with symptoms peaking in severity. Medical monitoring is crucial during this time to manage risks like seizures or dehydration.
Stage 3: Late Withdrawal – Three to Seven Days After the Last Drink
- Symptoms may include a gradual recovery of physical health accompanied by persistent fatigue, irritability, or mood fluctuations.
- This stage marks the transition to stabilization, where patients begin to feel more physically balanced.
These three stages may vary in duration and severity for different individuals. When going through these stages, a patient may also undergo therapy and counseling to address the emotional and psychological aspects of their addiction.
Why Professional Alcohol Detox Matters
Professional alcohol detox is essential because it provides a supportive and controlled environment to manage withdrawal symptoms, which can sometimes be severe or even life-threatening. Detox programs are supervised by trained medical staff who closely monitor a patient’s health and offer medications or treatments to ease discomfort. Unlike trying to quit alcohol alone, professional detox provides patients with the support they need to start their recovery journey with the best chance of success. It also addresses the physical and emotional challenges of withdrawal, making the process safer and more effective.
Call Sanford Behavioral Health Today and Take the First Step Toward Recovery
Detox is just the beginning, but it’s an essential step toward a healthier, alcohol-free life. Understanding what to expect in alcohol detox helps you feel more prepared and confident about taking this important step. Sanford Behavioral Health is here to guide you through the process with expert care and unwavering support.
If you or a loved one is ready to start the journey to recovery, call us today at 616.202.3326 or contact us online to learn more about our comprehensive detox and addiction treatment programs.
