Choosing to quit drinking is a life-changing decision, especially when someone suffers from alcohol use disorder (AUD). As with all chemical dependence, the downside of quitting is that you will likely experience withdrawal symptoms. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms range from mild to severe. The alcohol detox center at Spokane Falls Recovery Center offers patients a comfortable and welcoming environment. They can safely detox from alcohol at our treatment center with medical and clinical supervision and support.
At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, helping people overcome AUD is our life’s work. Many of our addiction specialists are on their own recovery journey, so they have the knowledge, compassion, and empathy to provide the best level of care. Don’t let fear hold you back from seeking the treatment you need and deserve. Contact us at 844.962.2775.
Preparing for Alcohol Detox by Knowing What to Expect
Going through alcohol withdrawal is physically and psychologically challenging and uncomfortable. The fear of withdrawal symptoms is a natural barrier to AUD treatment. At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, we will not tell you that detoxing from alcohol will be easy. Our team will be honest about what you can expect from the process based on the information you give us about your history. You will receive medical, physical, emotional, and psychological support to encourage you to make your way through the alcohol detox process safely and securely.
One of the best ways to prepare for alcohol detox is to know what to expect, which can help alleviate your fears. Following is a general alcohol detox timeline:
- Six to eight hours after the last drink (mild) – Often referred to as a hangover. The symptoms may include headache, dehydration, sweating, increased heart rate, or anxiety.
- 12 to 48 hours from the last drink (moderate) – Your mild symptoms continue, in addition to rapid or abnormal breathing, higher blood pressure, confusion, and mild hypothermia. Seizures can occur with severe addiction.
- Seventy-two hours from the last drink (severe) – Moderate symptoms continue. In addition, you may experience possible seizures and delirium tremens (DTs). The DTs may involve auditory or visual hallucinations or disorientation.
- One week to several months (lasting) – PAWS or Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms can include sleep and mood disorders.
Without professional treatment at an alcohol detox center, some people can rapidly progress through these stages, posing threats to their health. The dangers of the detox process increase when individuals are addicted to other substances or have co-occurring mental health disorders.
Factors to Consider When Preparing for Alcohol Withdrawal
After you realize that you have alcohol use disorder (AUD) and accept the need for treatment, alcohol detox is the initial step on the road to recovery. Many people with AUD have made numerous unsuccessful attempts at quitting cold turkey. However, quitting without warning can be dangerous for individuals with severe AUD.
AUD occurs on a spectrum, ranging from mild to severe, as do alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Your withdrawal symptoms will depend upon a variety of factors, which you should discuss with a doctor.
Individuals with mild AUD who are otherwise healthy and do not abuse other substances may be able to safely stop using alcohol at home. However, they should do so with the input and supervision of a doctor. However, you may have a long history of AUD and multiple attempts at quitting. In that case, you will have other physical and mental health conditions. These make detoxing from alcohol at home a danger to your health.
Learn More at Spokane Falls Recovery Center
When it comes to AUD, most people have difficulty being objective or honest about their alcohol use. They are familiar with the notion of hitting rock bottom. As such, they convince themselves that if they have not hit rock bottom, they do not need professional AUD treatment. If you find yourself questioning whether or not you need help getting or staying sober, you likely do. Additionally, if others in your life have expressed concern about your drinking, professional treatment is probably for you.
At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, we know that change is difficult and scary. Most people with AUD cannot imagine managing life without alcohol. We are here to tell you that your life will only get better once you can stop drinking for good. Don’t let fear hold you back. Call us today at 844.962.2775 to learn more about how to prepare for alcohol withdrawal and treatment.
