The symptoms of detoxification generally refer to the unenjoyable physical or psychological reactions associated with the withdrawal from alcohol, a particular drug or a combination of drugs. Such detox symptoms typically ensue when a substance is not present, although the body continues to physically crave the substance. A detoxification programme will involve medication being provided to the addict to minimise the risk of dangerous withdrawal. To alleviate as much of these withdrawal symptoms as possible. This is to help the individual to feel as comfortable as possible.
Alcohol Dependency
A person with an alcohol dependency, will typically experience withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, sweating, vomiting, delirium tremens (the DTs), or in some extreme cases, hallucinations and seizures. The hallucinations can be very frighteneing and include such experiences as seeing shadowy figures in a room. Rats climbing the walls or crawling over the ceiling or people in trees.
Abusing Substances
With addicts abusing substances such as heroin, the detoxification symptoms will include restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhoea, vomiting, cold sweats with goose bumps (“cold turkey”), and involuntary leg movements or twitching. Typical detoxing symptoms for cocaine include anxiety, irritability, sleeplessness, and sometimes agitation or extreme paranoia.
Detox
It can be a difficult time deciding whether or not one should go through a detoxification programme. Although if the individual wants to get well this is the first stage in recovery. For someone with an addiction the first step towards abstinence should involve withdrawing from the substance that they are abusing. Anyone who experiences withdrawal symptoms can benefit from a detox programme.
Safe Environment
It offer a safe environment which is made to be as comfortable way as possible to stop using alcohol or drugs. With the support of understanding and experienced and professional staff. It is important to seek professional help when deciding to go through the detoxification process. Sudden withdrawal from certain substances, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines, can potentially be life-threatening, and for other substances very unpleasant. It is therefore important to access a professional detox program where you or your loved one has access to the proper and appropriate medical assessments. Medication and on-going support from specialised, experienced staff.
Haynes Clinic
At the Haynes Clinic our detoxes are usually over a reasonably long period of time so that they can be as comfortable as possible. A typical detox is 2 weeks and if the individual does not want to hasten this. They are usually surprised that it is not as bad as they expect (especially heroin users who fear the worse but find a subutex detox a lot easier than one on methadone. Which is itself very difficult to come off).
Psychological Reasons
The physical detox is only one aspect of keeping well. The in some ways more important part of recovery is dealing with the psychological reasons why someone drinks so much or uses drugs. At the Haynes Clinic we will start to address these right at the beginning of addiction recovery treatment. While the detox is taking place – and continue to work with the individual until they are not only detoxed but also have an understanding of themselves and their addiction. The mental strength not to go back to their old ways!
The Haynes Clinic is an alcohol and drug addiction rehab clinic offering detox and counselling for those affected by alcohol and drug abuse.
For free and confidential advice call 01462 851414.
