Detox Symptoms
Withdrawal syndrome occurs when an individual abruptly quits or reduces the use of a substance that has been taken repeatedly, typically in high doses. Anxiety, insomnia, nausea, body aches, sweating and tremors are just a few of the symptoms that may occur during alcohol and drug withdrawal. The onset of the withdrawal syndrome depends on the substance and dose. Here are some of the symptoms of withdrawal: - Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is particularly dangerous. Symptoms may include seizures and hallucinations and may progress to delirium tremens (DTs). Unmanaged alcohol withdrawal syndrome can result in death.
- Sedative withdrawal syndrome has symptoms similar to alcohol withdrawal, but may also include muscle aches and twitches, trouble sleeping and agitation. These symptoms can become worse, resulting in life-threatening complications such as high temperature and seizures. Benzodiazepines including Valium, Ativan and Klonopin are in the sedative class of drugs.
- Opiate withdrawal is accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as a runny nose and eyes, aching muscles, chills, anxiety, vomiting and abdominal cramps. These withdrawal reactions are extremely uncomfortable but are not life-threatening. Opiate drugs include heroin, morphine, codeine, OxyContin and methadone.
- Stimulant withdrawal is characterized by depression, malaise, paranoia, fatigue and instability. Stimulant drugs include cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, Adderall and Ritalin.
Benefits of Inpatient Detox
The goal of any detox program, outpatient or inpatient, is to safely relieve the symptoms of withdrawal, but inpatient detox is preferable for many reasons. Here are a few of them: - Inpatient facilities are able to dedicate medical staff to the addict 24 hours a day. They’re well equipped to manage both the physical and emotional symptoms of withdrawal.
- Inpatient facilities provide a safe place to recover, removing those struggling with addiction from temptation and their old habits. Replacement medications are offered to help with the more severe detox symptoms.
- In an inpatient environment, people are protected from stress factors that may serve as triggers for resuming the use of alcohol or other drugs. There are no work responsibilities, no tension with family members, no sick children. An absence of stress provides a healing environment that lets people focus exclusively on getting better.
- Inpatient stays are best if you have overdosed in the past or if you relapsed after outpatient detox and treatment.
