Detox Center
Alcoholism affects both men and women in many different age groups and social classes. People who become dependent off drinking an alcoholic beverage are considered alcoholics. In some instances, a person can quit drinking and never start back up again. In most cases, the alcoholic needs help in order to regain control of his life. Many people benefit from getting professional help from a variety of sources. One way is to seek help from an inpatient detox clinic. The staff includes medical professionals who closely watch and monitor someone through the detoxification process. It is important because some of the detox symptoms can cause the patient to have further medical complications. Inpatient facilities can also monitor the patient's nutrition, fluid and electrolyte levels throughout detox. This offers a safe environment where medical staff can intervene if necessary. Residential treatment facilities offer a more relaxed environment where the patient can still receive medical care if necessary. A nurse is generally on staff and a physician on call if a medical concern arises. There is generally a team of experienced counselors and psychologists available that lead patients into both individualized and group counseling sessions. This allows the alcoholic to work through emotional signs along with their physical symptoms during detox. Outpatient centers are helpful for those who feel they can tackle their physical symptoms without medical supervision.
Withdrawal Symptoms
The withdrawal symptoms when detoxing include nausea, anxiety, headache, sensitivity to light, hallucinations, itching, severe disorientation, agitation, anger, fidgety, restless, sweating and tremors. All of these symptoms are serious, and some of them can be severe and easily cause the alcoholic to return to drinking. When in an inpatient detox facility or being closely monitored by medical staff, there may be certain medications that can help the alcoholic get through the withdrawal symptoms. These drugs include chlordiazepoxide and oxazepam. Both drugs help alleviate symptoms and allow the patient to recover safely.
Effects
The effects of alcohol detox are so that the patient can flush the body of all alcohol. It also gives vital organs such as the liver a rest from being poisoned from alcohol. Once the detox is complete, the alcoholic will have to use the skills she has learned in therapy in order to avoid relapse. She should learn how to constructively deal with pressures and temptations that will likely arise as she makes her way to long-term recovery. Using support with Alcoholics Anonymous, a sponsor and an outpatient clinic will help her make positive choices.
