A vital step in the treatment of alcohol addiction is an alcohol detox center in Florida. This is the initial phase of recovery, and it severs the physical ties associated with alcohol abuse. Since detox from alcohol can be both challenging and potentially dangerous, it’s important to seek out a professional drug and alcohol detox program that can provide a safe, secure, and comfortable environment for the duration of the detox.
Do you or a loved one need a drug and alcohol detox program? Call us today at 866.723.3127 for help.
The Objectives of an Alcohol Detox
To treat the disease of alcoholism, the first step is to detox completely from the substance. This removes the physical dependency on alcohol and allows patients to have greater control over their cognitive function. Without alcohol clouding judgment and capability, patients can make rational decisions about the future. They can rebuild their lives, careers, and relationships.
The goal of alcohol detox to help patients safely withdraw from alcohol use and minimize the negative physical effects of alcohol dependence, such as nausea and vomiting, seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), muscle cramps and pain, and hallucinations.
Another objective of an alcohol detox center in Florida is laying the groundwork for further rehabilitation. If patients go directly to alcohol rehab without detoxing first, withdrawal symptoms might prevent them from learning, absorbing, or benefitting from the various treatments and therapies available.
Benefits of an Alcohol Detox Center in Florida
Although it may technically be possible to withdraw from alcohol without professional support, doing so can be dangerous. The benefits of a professional alcohol detox center in Florida include medical supervision, accountability, 24/7 support, and freedom from ordinary stress. Tides Edge Detox is just the professional program you need.
Without medical supervision, withdrawal symptoms can become very uncomfortable. Self-medicating can be risky, as some medications are contraindicated for those in detox. In the rare cases where more serious symptoms develop, such as for the 5% of patients who experience delirium tremens, medical staff will quickly recognize symptoms and seek emergency care, if necessary. A medical detox program may be recommended to ease severe withdrawal symptoms upon an evaluation.
Professional detox programs also offer accountability, which isn’t possible for those who try to quit drinking cold turkey. Detox programs will also provide resources, support, and advice to patients around the clock. Furthermore, patients in detox won’t have to worry about everyday tasks like housekeeping or cooking, allowing a complete and total focus on recovery.
How Long Detox Will Last
Detox from alcohol can range in duration, depending on the patient in question. For example, those who have been drinking for decades may need longer to detox than those who have developed an addiction recently. Overall, however, most patients in an alcohol detox center in Florida will need up to 10 days to completely overcome the physical withdrawal symptoms of alcohol detox.
The length of time that detox will last for an opiate user depends on a number of factors, including the severity of the addiction, the person’s age and health, and the type of opiate used. Generally, however, detox from opiates can last anywhere from a few days to a week.
The psychological symptoms, however, can last much longer. It is not uncommon for patients in alcohol and opiate detox centers to experience anxiety, depression, and insomnia for weeks or even months after the physical detox has been completed. For this reason, seeking a detox center that offers long-term care and support is important.
Understanding Common Withdrawal Symptoms
Some prospective patients who want to enroll in an alcohol detox center in Florida understand the benefits but are nervous about the potential withdrawal symptoms. To start, it’s important to note that in a formal alcohol detox program, there are a number of ways to minimize the discomfort of withdrawal. Medication-assisted treatment, a safe environment, and even intravenous fluids can greatly improve the experience.
During a typical detox, some of the most common withdrawal symptoms that patients might experience include:
- Temperature fluctuations and sweating
- Anxiety or depression
- Intestinal distress such as nausea or diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Lack of appetite
- Insomnia and/or fatigue
There are more severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms that make detox at a licensed center critical. Delirium tremens can happen when a period of heavy drinking is stopped. It affects more serious cases of alcohol abuse and causes sudden mental or nervous system changes.
Finding a Suitable Alcohol Detox Program in Florida
With the many clear advantages of an alcohol detox center in Florida, patients should aim to start their sobriety safely. In addition to providing medical supervision, a great Florida detox center will offer comfortable accommodation and a seamless transition to an alcohol rehab center at a partner facility for continued care. Contact Tides Edge Detox about the following treatment programs:
- Medical detox to assist with any complications from withdrawal
- Alcohol rehab programs after detox
- Combined alcohol and drug detox programs for polysubstance abuse
It’s also important to choose a detox treatment program that’s accredited by a major medical governing body such as the Joint Commission. Patients may also want to seek out programs that accept major health insurance policies.
An alcohol detox center in Florida is crucial to achieving lasting sobriety. Take the next step in your journey to recovery. Call Tides Edge Detox in Jacksonville, Florida at 866.723.3127 to learn more.