Detoxing from alcohol is a process that can be life-threatening without medical supervision. Trying to detox at home involves many risks, including the potential for fatal outcomes, especially if withdrawal symptoms are severe. Since alcohol withdrawal symptoms can manifest abruptly and vary unpredictably, having access to medical supervision and timely interventions could save a life.
Why Is Detox from Alcohol at Home Dangerous?
Alcohol withdrawal refers to a spectrum of symptoms that can occur when someone who has developed physical dependence on alcohol suddenly discontinues consumption. These symptoms can vary widely in severity, from mild discomfort to potentially life-threatening conditions. Individuals with alcohol use disorder – the clinical term for alcohol addiction – may start experiencing withdrawal symptoms anywhere from 8 hours to several days after their last alcoholic drink, with these symptoms typically peaking within 24 to 72 hours but potentially lingering for weeks.
While some people want to know how to detox at home, this is dangerous due to the lack of professional support needed to address physical and psychological dependence. Severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal require immediate medical intervention and may include:
- Hallucinations
- Raised heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- DTs (delirium tremens)
- Seizures
Delirium tremens is an especially severe form of alcohol withdrawal which can continue for up to five days and may be fatal. Signs of impending DTs may follow milder withdrawal symptoms. Factors that increase the risk of delirium tremens include a history of chronic alcohol abuse, previous episodes of DTs or seizures during alcohol withdrawal, high blood alcohol concentration at the time of cessation, or an extended period since the last alcoholic drink.
Beyond this, individuals attempting to overcome alcohol dependence without professional detoxification and therapy services are at increased risk of relapse.
Alternatives to Alcohol Detox at Home
The safest and most effective approach to alcohol withdrawal involves supervised detoxification at a detox center or alcohol rehab. This approach streamlines the process, alleviates withdrawal symptoms, averts complications, and facilitates the transition to ongoing recovery.
Before detox, a thorough assessment of the individual enables medical professionals to create a personalized detoxification plan. This may involve different interventions, from medications to emotional care.
Detox is conducted under the close care of a trained team of medical professionals, ensuring effective clinical management throughout the process. Detox may take place in either an inpatient or outpatient setting. Inpatient detox usually works best for those with more severe alcohol addictions.
During the detoxification process, people may also be evaluated for co-occurring mental health disorders or substance use disorders. Dual diagnosis treatment should be coordinated and integrated for best results.
After detox, individuals with alcohol use disorders greatly benefit from evidence-based addiction treatment. This may involve counseling (individual and group), medication-assisted treatment, psychotherapies, and holistic treatments. When treating alcohol addiction, behavioral therapies like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) are especially effective, focusing on identifying triggers for alcohol abuse and imparting healthy coping mechanisms.
For managing alcohol withdrawal symptoms, specific medications may be employed:
- Benzodiazepines serve as the cornerstone for treating alcohol withdrawal, with doses gradually tapered to minimize the risk of seizures and delirium tremens.
- Anticonvulsants like gabapentin (Neurontin) may also be used.
- Additional medications – clonidine or beta blockers, for instance – may support symptom management, enhancing the overall detox experience.
- FDA-approved medications may be used during detox and throughout ongoing treatment.
Does Insurance Cover Inpatient Alcohol Detox?
Health insurance often covers inpatient alcohol detox if it is deemed medically necessary. Coverage can vary based on your insurance plan and provider, so check with your insurance company to understand the specifics of what is included in your coverage.
Get Safe & Effective Alcohol Detox at California Detox
Never attempt to detox at home if you are dependent on alcohol – it can be life-threatening. Instead, choose supervised medical detox at California Detox in Laguna Beach, CA, and begin your recovery the right way.
Although alcohol withdrawal can be aggravating and uncomfortable, medications approved by FDA can reduce the intensity of cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Continuous care at our beachside facility streamlines the process and minimizes the chance of complications or relapse interrupting early recovery.
After a week or so of detox, you’ll move into ongoing inpatient treatment. Expect to access the following interventions:
- Talk therapies
- MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
- Motivational therapies
- Holistic therapies
- Group therapy
- One-to-one counseling
- Family therapy
- Aftercare planning
Call California Detox at 949.694.8305 and begin your recovery from alcohol addiction right away.