Alcoholism is a slow-killing disease, affecting not just individuals but also their immediate family and friends. To prevent the long-term irreparable damage caused by alcohol consumption, the body must first be purged off of the toxic contents under clinical supervision. The stages of alcohol detox can be quite painful, but with medical attention and close monitoring, the withdrawal symptoms can be managed, and the client can recover in a safe and comfortable environment. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism, contact Coalition Recovery for immediate crisis intervention and alcohol detox services.
Detoxication is the first step in a Florida alcohol addiction treatment program which should be done under the guidance of a medical professional. To know more about our specialized treatment programs, call us at 888.707.2873.
Withdrawal Timeline: Stages of Alcohol Detox
Often, those struggling with alcoholism may continue their binge-drinking habits as they are afraid of the painful withdrawal symptoms or do not know what to expect in an alcohol detox program. But medical detoxification is completely safe, and the greatest care is taken to ensure that the client is comfortable. Also, it doesn’t have the risks or dangers associated with self-quitting.
An approximate alcohol detox timeline is as follows:
6-8 Hours
At this point, the client may start feeling the first symptoms of withdrawal. They may experience nausea, vomiting, mood swings, headaches, and anxiety.
12-48 Hours
Moderate to severe symptoms appear which may include sweating, high blood pressure, irritability, disorientation, and fever.
48-72 Hours
The symptoms are most severe at this stage, and some clients may experience seizures, tremors, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (DT).
This is why alcohol detox must be mediated by a medical professional, and the client’s vital signs must be carefully monitored throughout.
3-5 Days
Slowly, the symptoms start to fade as the body begins to adjust and heal itself. The client’s energy levels will have dipped, and they may experience mood swings, depression, and brain fog. They may also be prone to nightmares and shakiness.
1-2 weeks
Within a week, the symptoms should have subsided and the client will start to feel better. At this point, it is important to seek professional therapy to uncover the root causes of addiction and address mental health issues and other co-occurring disorders.
With regular therapy sessions and life skills coaching, the client will find a new sense of purpose, enthusiasm for life and develop sober habits.
Based on one’s drinking and medical history, and the presence of other co-occurring disorders, the stages of alcohol detox may differ from client to client.
Rapid Alcohol Detox
A normal detox program generally lasts for one to two weeks. However, in rapid alcohol detox, the withdrawal timeline is noticeably shorter. The patient is put under anesthesia with medications injected into their system to eliminate the substance. The detox is complete within four to six hours, although the client may remain for another one to two days at the facility.
Learn More About Alcohol Detox and Treatment at Coalition Recovery
Coalition Recovery’s different addiction treatment programs are meticulously designed, keeping in mind the client’s specific needs and unique lived experiences, with a strong emphasis on aftercare planning.
We believe that the drug or alcohol detox is only the beginning of the client’s recovery journey towards health and sobriety. With the help of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), evidence-based therapies (EBT), and a variety of complementary holistic approaches, we guide individuals through all the stages of alcohol and addiction recovery, teaching them effective coping mechanisms and vital life skills, alongside providing ongoing support.
For the past six years, our stellar staff has helped countless students, young adults, working professionals, military veterans, and members of the queer community find the right healthcare resources. Call us today at 888.707.2873 to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a better life.
