Alcohol detoxification and withdrawal symptoms management
Written by:
Psychiatrist
Published: 02/07/2021
Edited by: Kalum Alleyne
Alcohol dependence is a serious problem across the UK and the world. It is highly recommended that those who have to use alcohol to function normally should get professional help, particularly if they start to notice withdrawal symptoms. Dr Oscar D'Agnone, a psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience helping people beat addiction, is on hand to describe some of these symptoms.
When is an alcohol detox necessary?
Alcohol affects everyone differently, depending on a wide range of factors, so even those who don’t drink regularly may need a detox. If withdrawal symptoms are mild, you should be able to detox at home without any medication.
Can heavy drinkers detox at home?
Home detox is also possible for heavier drinkers, although it has to be monitored more closely. People who drink over 20 units a day, or those whose withdrawal symptoms are more frequent and difficult to deal with, may need medication to help reduce the unpleasant side effects of quitting alcohol. In these cases, patients are usually prescribed a tranquilizer called chlordiazepoxide to help ease anxiety, insomnia and other symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
When is it necessary to go to a rehab centre?
For those with more severe dependence, a rehab centre stay may be necessary for alcohol detox. Generally speaking, the more severe the alcohol dependence, the worse the withdrawal symptoms will be, so a longer-term, holistic approach is required. It’s also vital to be in the hands of professionals who will support you safely through the most difficult stages. As for the withdrawal symptoms, the first two days of an inpatient detox are usually the most unpleasant. However, patients usually notice an improvement after this, and the detox can be completed successfully within a week of their last drink.
What are some of the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal?
Some of the most common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal are:
Hand tremors Excessive sweating Anxiety Nausea Vomiting Headaches InsomniaAlcohol detox programmes provide the right clinical and emotional support needed during alcohol withdrawal.
Dr Oscar D’Agnone provides alcohol detox programmes and monitoring that can help you stop drinking, visit his profile to request an appointment.