Although an alcohol detox is a crucial part of recovery, it can still be dangerous because some symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can be severe. Fortunately, medical supervision makes the entire process safer and more comfortable. The dangers of certain alcohol detox symptoms mean that an alcohol detox should never be attempted solo.
With the quality alcohol detox program at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, there is no need to put yourself at risk with at-home alcohol detox. For optimal safety as you detox from alcohol, we provide 24/7 supervision and support from a team of caring professionals. We understand the dangers of alcohol withdrawal, so we will be by your side every step of the way. Call us today at 866.294.5306 to learn more about how we can help you overcome alcohol addiction.
Delirium Tremens: A Symptom of Alcohol Withdrawal
Arguably the most severe of all symptoms of alcohol withdrawal is delirium tremens or DTs. Delirium tremens are not common while undergoing treatment at an alcohol detox center. In fact, it occurs in just about five percent of patients.
There is no guaranteed way to tell if a client will experience DTs during detox. Therefore, all clients should choose to detox from alcohol in a secure and supervised medical facility. Should DTs become an issue, it is vital that emergency care is available.
Delirium tremens can cause many dangerous symptoms, including:
- Hallucinations – These can be common among those who suffer from DTs. Hallucinations can be visual, auditory, or even tactile. A person experiencing these hallucinations will not be able to determine reality for that short period.
- Extreme confusion – Clients may struggle to understand why they are in detox or what is happening around them. Detox staff can help comfort them and alleviate their fears surrounding treatment in an unfamiliar environment.
- Paranoia or violence – These are possible in extreme cases. A person detoxing from alcohol may think those around are out to harm them and may get defensive or aggressive. For the safety of the client and the peace of mind of their loved ones, a secure environment must be provided.
The DTs are much more likely in cases of severe alcohol addiction. If you or someone you care about has been drinking heavily for years, you must seek professional help for alcohol detox..
Increased Dehydration is a Concern
Dehydration is one of the most common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. During a detox, lots of factors come together to cause dehydration. A high temperature may cause extreme sweating, and nausea or vomiting could prevent adequate hydration. Together, these conditions mean chronic dehydration is a significant issue.
In the medical sense, dehydration is more than just being thirsty. It can cause weakness, swollen tongue, fainting, or heart palpitations. To treat dehydration, it often takes much more than a glass of water. When dehydration goes untreated during alcohol withdrawal, you can end up in the emergency room for IV hydration therapy.
Treating severe dehydration can be challenging. Fortunately, medical professionals have the resources to hydrate clients adequately. Solutions like electrolyte mixes, IVs, and water-dense foods can also help alleviate the symptoms of dehydration during a detox.
Heart Problems Have to be Closely Monitored
Many symptoms of alcohol withdrawal have to do with the heart. That’s because alcohol addiction already takes a toll on the heart. During detox, there is additional stress, and while the heart works overtime to recover, it can act unusually.
During alcohol withdrawal, some concerns regarding the heart include:
- An increased heart rate
- A significant spike in blood pressure
- Heart palpitations
- Serious heart failure
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
Fortunately, medical professionals can monitor heart conditions throughout detox and recommend treatment for clients at high risk.
Expect Confusion and Foggy Thinking During Alcohol Detox
Many people mistakenly believe that detox only impacts the body, but it can also affect behavior, thinking, and cognitive function. One of the scariest alcohol detox symptoms is foggy thinking or confusion.
Feeling confused during detox is very disorienting. In addition to discomfort or medication side effects, this confusion may make clients upset and frustrated. Addiction experts need to be on hand to monitor these situations and respond in a calming and effective way.
Insomnia and Fatigue Are Common Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Many clients find it incredibly hard to sleep well during an alcohol withdrawal, which makes sense since it can be uncomfortable. During the day, fatigue is also common. Clients should prepare for this and take the time to rest during detox rather than trying to handle work or other obligations.
Experience Safe Alcohol Withdrawal at Serenity House Detox & Recovery
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, clients can complete a safe medical detox program. This all-important step is the best way to mitigate dangerous symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. It also lays the foundation for lasting recovery. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, clients can expect programs like:
- Evidence-based therapy program
- Talk therapy program
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy program
- Dialectical behavior therapy program
- Health and wellness program
Withdrawal is a necessary part of recovery, but the pain does not have to be. Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida boasts locations in Fort Lauderdale and Jupiter where you can achieve sobriety. Take back control over your life by calling 866.294.5306.
