Alcohol Detox: The First Stage of Alcoholism Treatment

Although the idea of alcohol withdrawal may sound highly unpleasant and unappealing, it is important to know that alcohol detox can reduce and relieve symptoms to make you feel more comfortable, and it reduces the risk for complications.

At Dana Point Rehab Campus, alcohol detox takes place in a safe, controlled medical environment where patients are monitored 24/7 by trained nurses and doctors.  These highly trained and accredited staff members can help prevent or reduce complications, and administer medications as needed to relieve symptoms. It is usually included as part of a comprehensive alcohol and drug rehab program that combines behavioral therapy, counseling, and other interventions that contribute to long-term recovery.

Who Needs Alcohol Detox?

If someone is physically dependent on alcohol, an alcohol detox is needed to experience a safe recovery. You may need alcohol detox if you experience one or more withdrawal symptoms when abruptly discontinuing alcohol, or if you drink more alcohol for the purpose of preventing or relieving withdrawal symptoms. A person who is severely dependent on alcohol and tries quitting abruptly faces the risk of serious complications including seizures, body tremors, and irregular heartbeat, according to MedlinePlus.

What Is the Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline?

The length of time it takes to detox from alcohol is different for everyone based on factors such as health status and the severity of symptoms. Alcohol withdrawal can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, and it affects each patient differently. Those who have been abusing alcohol for just a few months may be able to withdraw from alcohol within a few days, while those who have been drinking heavily for many years may need several weeks to recover from alcohol dependence. Other factors that can affect the alcohol withdrawal timeline include age, health status, nutrition, physical activity level, mental illness, medical conditions, and the lifespan of alcohol use.

According to the World Health Organization, alcohol withdrawal may last between 2 and 20 days. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms generally appear within 6 to 24 hours after the last drink and are most severe after 36 to 72 hours. According to MedlinePlus, alcohol withdrawal symptoms usually set in within 8 hours after the last drink, but they can occur days later and last for weeks. Symptoms are projected to be at their most severe after 24 to 72 hours.

The medical staff at an alcohol rehab center like Dana Point Rehab Campus can perform an evaluation and provide you with a more accurate estimate of how long it may take for you to complete alcohol detox. Detox treatment will be personalized for you or your loved one to result in the safest, most comfortable treatment possible.

Safe Alcohol Detox Treatment at Dana Point Rehab Campus

Dana Point Rehab Campus offers alcohol and drug detox as part of a comprehensive addiction recovery program for alcoholism. Alcohol detox manages the physical symptoms of withdrawal to help you safely overcome alcohol dependence.  Alcohol detox is usually the first stage of treatment, after which you can transition into the inpatient residential rehab program, partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient program, or standard outpatient program to receive counseling and behavioral therapy.

If you are suffering from alcohol dependence and need help, contact us today at 833-272-7342 to learn more about our alcohol rehab program, or fill out our free insurance verification form to confirm your healthcare benefits.