Alcohol detoxification is a way of addressing alcohol use disorders and marks the first phase, whereby alcohol is removed from the body together with its withdrawal symptoms. This can be a pivotal stage for anyone looking for an alcohol cure since it assists in reprogramming an individual’s system and getting them ready for long-lasting treatment. Learning about the process of alcohol detoxification will help individuals to adequately prepare for the process and, in the process, seek medical attention as some of the effects of withdrawal might be drastic.
First phase- early withdrawal (6-12 hours after last drink)
While the process of alcohol withdrawal starts within 6 to 12 hours after the last drink, the first phase of Los Angeles alcohol detox is usually observed at least within 6 to 12 hours after the last drink. Withdrawal symptoms are Now present at this stage, but they are very mild as the body is adapting to the fact that there will be no more alcohol intake. The symptoms may be the following: anxiety, insomnia, nausea, headaches, and tremors. In chronic drinkers, the symptoms can be more severe if the person has been a chronic user of alcohol. These early signs and symptoms may worsen in the following hours, so a close check should be taken on them. Doctors usually advise their clients to drink a lot of water and avoid any noise that can make it challenging to stay still.
Stage 2: Peak Withdrawal ( Within 24-72 hrs After The Last Consumption Of Alcohol)
Alcohol detox is the second one and is usually the most severe, beginning between 24 and 72 hours after the final alcoholic drink. This is the worst time when withdrawal symptoms occur and physical and psychological symptoms are pronounced. Some signs may be elevated blood pressure, tachycardia or increased rate of beating of the heart, pyrexia or heightened body temperature, diaphoresis, or extensive sweating. It is also worth mentioning that some patients suffer from such symptoms as hallucinations or even seizures, which can be dangerous for the patient’s life. This is the time when the chances of developing delirium tremens (DTs), a severe form of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, increase. During this period, complications are liable to set in, and medical supervision is therefore required to control symptoms.
Late Withdrawal = 3-7 Days after Last Drink or Alcohol Use
Some of the symptoms also start subsiding during the late withdrawal stage, when the body is still expelling alcohol. The majority of alcohol metabolites are until 3-7 days after the last alcohol intake. In general, the bodily signs are no longer distinct, while psychological manifestations such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings may prevail. Alcohol cravings may also be felt once the body starts maintaining a stable condition, or so it might say. Coping with this stage is most important because those in the process are easily vulnerable and may even relapse. Most of the treatment centers have therapy sessions during this time to address the long-term impacts these have on a person.
Stage 4: Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
PAWS, or post-acute withdrawal syndrome, is also another alcohol detoxification effect that may manifest for several weeks or even months after the detoxification stage. Some symptoms are sleep disturbances, irritability, fatigue, and mood swings. These symptoms are not as severe as in the initial days of withdrawal, but they are capable of slowing down the process of rehabilitation. Most of the patients are advised to have additional therapy along with support groups and sometimes medication for PAWS to have sustained sobriety.
Final Thoughts
Alcohol detox is a complex process typically consisting of several phases, the severity and length of which depend on the history of the patient’s alcohol use. Depending on different factors, the withdrawal symptoms start as early withdrawal that occurs a few hours after the last drink, then enters the intense peak withdrawal phase, followed by the late withdrawal phase, and finally, different symptoms that may be associated with the PAWS. During the detox process, it is crucial always to have medical support to avoid any complications and achieve the maximum result, as well as moral and psychological assistance. It is essential to be aware of the various phases of alcohol detox as this would enable the formulation of an effective plan for the care of alcohol use disorder patients.
