Drug addiction and alcoholism are known as diseases that affect brain function, causing one to compulsively seek out and use drugs or alcohol despite its harmful effects. If you are suffering from an addiction you need to start by accepting that you have a problem and need help. Only then can you start on the road to recovery with life saving treatment.

What is Detox?

Detoxification is the natural process in which you body is cleansed of the chemicals and toxins associated with drug or alcohol abuse. It takes place in a medical setting such as a specialty detoxification facility or a hospital. There you will be monitored by medical professionals who will ensure your health and safety while providing you with the medications needed to find comfort.

Withdrawal and Detox

During this time you will experience withdrawal symptoms, your body will begin to adjust to life without drugs and alcohol. Depending on the severity of the withdrawal symptoms you may require a medication to offer you comfort. Common symptoms of withdrawal include but are not limited to:

  • Strong drug or alcohol cravings.
  • Fever and chills.
  • Muscle spasms, tremors, joint pains.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Moodiness: anxiety, depression, fear of withdrawal.
  • Stomach cramps.
  • Sweating, runny nose, watery eyes.
  • Restlessness.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Doctors and medical staff will monitor your vitals, ensuring your health during the detox process. You may require IV fluids to help you stay hydrated and to administer IV medications to offer you comfort.

Preparing for Rehabilitation Treatment

There is no quick fix from addiction. Regardless to if you’re a drug addict or alcoholic you can not simply detox and then go home to live life as normal, you will require rehabilitation treatment. You will be prepared to take on everything about your addiction; mentally, emotionally and physically as you continue on with the rehabilitation process. Through individual and group counseling, behavioral modification therapy and other therapeutic exercises and chemical dependency education you will be able to get to the root cause of your addiction, develop the key tools needed to maintain your sobriety and given the opportunity to start a better life for yourself in recovery.