How to Detox From Alcohol at Home Safely Step-by-Step

Delirium tremens(DTs), or “alcohol withdrawal delirium,” is one of the more extreme symptoms that can occur after quitting alcohol. It is marked by delirium and a change in the level of consciousness, and it can befatal in 5% to 15% of cases. Older patients with a history of heavy alcohol use, a previous history of DTs, poor liver function and more severe withdrawal symptoms at the outset are more likely to experience DTs. The amount of time that it takes for alcohol to completely leave your bloodstream depends on multiple factors, including age, gender, health, genetic makeup and history of alcohol use. According to theNational Library of Medicine, alcohol withdrawal typically begins within eight hours after the last drink, but it can also take a few https://esalowellnessretreat.org.za/?p=2286 days to begin in some cases. The symptoms usually peak within 24 to 72 hours, but some can continue for several weeks.

Health Conditions

The use of these drugs for recreational purposes is prohibited, and they should only be used when prescribed by a doctor. Withdrawal symptoms can lead to malnourishment alcohol detox and loss of vitamins. A person undergoing home detox may be more inclined towards eating unhealthy meals, which can lead to severe vitamin depletion. Alcohol detox can leave you severely dehydrated, so it’s essential to drink lots of water and hydrating fluids. Usually, some services will be covered, but how much you’ll have to pay out of pocket depends on your health plan and the program you choose.

how to detox from alcohol

Q: Are you covered for addiction treatment?

how to detox from alcohol

Detox is a general word that can mean a couple of different things. The first is the physical detox process your body goes through if you abruptly stop drinking when you are physically dependent on alcohol. The second is alcohol detox treatment programs that work to remove alcohol from your system safely. Detoxing from alcohol at home or self-detox isn’t universally recommended because the withdrawal process can be dangerous, especially for people with alcohol use disorder (AUD).

how to detox from alcohol

Care at Cleveland Clinic

  • Detoxing from alcohol can be both mentally and emotionally difficult, but knowing what to expect and how to do it safely can make the path forward smoother.
  • In alcohol detox treatment, medical providers work to safely remove alcohol from your body so that you don’t experience painful or uncomfortable withdrawal.
  • This is what causes you to feel light-headed or tipsy after multiple alcoholic drinks.
  • In the months after treatment, patients may still experience sleep disturbances, mood swings and low energy levels.

Finding a therapist can also be a great starting point if you’re uncomfortable opening up to your healthcare professional. You may reach a point where you start drinking again just to relieve your symptoms. For instance, you might write a list of reasons why you want to stop drinking alcohol and read it. As you go through alcohol withdrawal, let your doctor know how you’re feeling, both physically and mentally. Some people think tapering can be a safer way to finally get your heavy alcohol use drug addiction treatment under control. Eating healthy foods, trying to get exercise, and getting enough sleep can help reduce some withdrawal symptoms, such as mood swings.

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  • Foods rich in vitamins and minerals, like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, can support the body’s recovery.
  • Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a condition that prevents people from stopping themselves from their drinking habits.
  • Learn how to redefine your relationship with alcohol, establish healthier habits, and seek effective support.
  • For people with severe alcohol dependence, a medically supervised detox may be necessary to ensure safety and manage withdrawal symptoms.

Contact your state’s mental health/substance use agency for more guidance on how to afford rehab. The average cost is $13, 475, according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics. For instance, some 30-day inpatient programs cost $5,000, while others may cost $20,000.

Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and relaxation practices can help alleviate discomfort. Tapering refers to gradually reducing alcohol intake rather than stopping abruptly. Knowing how to taper off alcohol is key to preventing dangerous withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, tremors, and extreme anxiety. A slow, controlled reduction allows your body to adjust to lower alcohol levels without triggering severe reactions. Benzodiazepinesare often the first treatment doctors suggest for alcohol withdrawal. Medical professionals at recovery facilities and hospitals can help people with the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.