A Complete Guide to Medical Detox

A Complete Guide to Medical Detox and What to Expect

Introduction The road to recovery is riddled with hardships. But braving through it and coming out clean from the other side is as life-changing as it gets. The very first thing to do on the journey to sobriety is to stop using and letting your body remove all harmful substances that are in your system. This is more commonly referred to as detox.

Table of Contents  What is it?  How to decide who needs it?  How long does it last?  What goes on during detox?  Symptoms of withdrawal and the importance of detox  Why is assisted medical detox better than doing it by self?  Types of medical detox  Dealing with the stigma  Important steps to take after you are done with detox

What is it?

The first step to becoming sober is quitting alcohol or whatever drug the victim has been indulging in. Detox is the process where you stop consuming said drugs, and your body gets rid of the previously administered drugs. This process can be painful, and withdrawal symptoms can be tough to manage alone. Furthermore, going cold turkey after certain drugs can be life-threatening. Medical detox is a treatment method where medical professionals assist you through the withdrawal and help you manage your symptoms.

How to decide who needs it?

Medical professionals take several factors into account to decide if an addict requires medical detox and, if so, the kind that fits them best. But it is recommended that any addict wanting to quit should not stop using abruptly, as their body might not react well to the sudden change.

Hence, if you are looking to quit or help a loved one do so, consult a doctor and get their professional opinion.

How long does it last?

There is no rigid timeline for detox. It may last only a few days for some and several weeks for others. Numerous factors influence how long a victim of addiction might take to cleanse their bodies of the substance they abused. Some of these factors are: – – – – – –

The kind of substance abused How often did the victim indulge in the substance The amount of substance used The addict’s age and gender The addict’s genetic makeup and family history The current mental and physical condition of the user

What goes on during detox?

• Once you have decided to quit, the first step is to consult your doctor to see which kind of detox is the safest option. After a thorough examination of your current physical and mental health and analysis of the type and amount of substance you took, the doctor will suggest a detox plan tailored to your condition.

• The next step is the detox itself. Based on the plan your doctor recommended, you will either be kept at a treatment centre with around the clock care or be assisted periodically while at home. You will be monitored to ensure you are not in any danger, and you will receive medication if necessary.

• Once done with detox, you will be provided with further treatment options to ensure your continued sobriety.

Symptoms of withdrawal and the importance of detox Some common symptoms that usually accompany withdrawal are: – – – – – – – – – – –

Anxiety Body aches Shivering Insomnia Nausea Vomiting Lack of focus Mood swings Depression Increased irritability Disturbed sleep patterns

Along with these, withdrawal from certain drugs can also induce hallucinations, seizures, and thoughts of self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

Why is assisted medical detox better than doing it by self?

Once your body has grown accustomed to a substance, suddenly going cold turkey could be not only permanently damaging but also life-threatening. With assisted medical detox, the danger factor is almost completely removed as medical professionals are involved. They can prescribe medicines if needed and can help you manage your withdrawal symptoms better.

Types of medical detox • Detox by drug type: This kind of detox is based on the type of substance abused by the patient. Some drugs lead to physically painful withdrawals, while others, like heroin, have a more significant psychological effect. During medical detox, such medicines are administered that mimic the effect of the abused substance to an extent. This eases the body’s transition to sobriety.

• Detox based on the severity of withdrawal: Depending on the length of time and the amount of substance abused, the intensity of withdrawal may vary. Some people have withdrawal symptoms that are far more manageable than others. This is why some patients are suggested inpatient detox with constant surveillance and care, while others can stay at home and receive treatment through residential detox programs.

Dealing with the stigma Unfortunately, there is a tremendous amount of stigma attached to the concept of addiction and detox. People often criminalize or demonize addicts when they are just victims. While going through detox, not having the support of friends and family can be incredibly discouraging. If you have a loved one going through recovery, treat them with love and respect. Compassion can be extremely beneficial during the recovery process and even after that. A nurturing and understanding environment is necessary to avoid relapses.

Important steps to take after you are done with detox Detox, in itself, is not the complete recovery process. It is merely the first step in the right direction. An addict must continue their recovery through other follow up procedures. A doctor can suggest the appropriate long-term treatment plan for them. These recommendations may include but are not limited to: – Addiction counselling – Group therapy or social therapy – Inpatient or outpatient rehab programs

The fear of withdrawal often holds people back from quitting.

However, with the right kind of help and support, a victim of addiction can overcome all physical and mental barriers. With enough strength, will, and determination, nothing can prevent an addict from becoming their sober, healthy self again.

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