Detoxification

Detoxification is the process of removing toxins from the body. This is a natural occurrence in the body, done mostly by the liver and lungs. In medical settings the process of detoxification is done through dialysis or chelation therapy. Detoxification is also a common procedure when it comes to addiction treatment, whether it is a treatment for drug or alcohol addiction. Most rehabilitation programs for alcohol and drug addiction often count alcohol detox or drug detox as the first step before the actual rehabilitation program can begin.

Importance of Detoxification in Addiction Treatment

Alcohol and drug rehabilitation treatments require patients to undergo detox first in order to put them in a proper mental and emotional state to receive counseling and the other treatments included in the rehab program. Those who undergo the treatment prior to proceeding with the rehabilitation program are also less likely to relapse during or after the length of the program. The process is not a treatment for any type of substance dependency, but is a process that will prepare the individual for full and sober participation in his rehab program.

Safety

Detoxification from toxic and habit-forming substances can be very unpleasant. The patient may experience convulsions, hallucinations and in some cases, cardiac arrest if alcohol consumption is stopped abruptly. However, with the right program, medications and a trained staff to assist the individual, undergoing the process safely is very possible. In most cases, individuals undergoing detoxification will need to be confined to a hospital or a rehabilitation center where they will get full supervision during the entire process. Medications to mimic the effects of alcohol and to reduce the severity of the symptoms such as anticonvulsants and anti-anxiety medications are often given, which is why continuous supervision is required while the patient is under the effects of these medications. Over dosage can also lead to separate side effects which can pose more harm to the patient.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include insomnia, nausea, shakiness, hallucinations, excessive sweating, agitation and anxiety, delirium tremens, seizures and heart failure. In the case of alcohol abuse, regular intake of alcohol has led to an increase in sensitivity of the brain to endogenous excitatory neurotransmitters. With the brain working normally with no alcohol to slow its processes down, it becomes all the more susceptible to the excitatory effects of neurotransmitters, resulting to symptoms mentioned above.

The symptoms may be mild or severe depending on the history and length of the substance abuse and the physiological make-up of the individual. Long term symptoms such as insomnia and anxiety will decrease gradually in intensity as the process continues.