In heavy drinkers, the body produces more hormones like serotonin and dopamine to make up for the depressive effect of alcohol. When drinking ceases, the body is flooded with an unusually high number of those hormones and the risks associated with alcohol withdrawal symptoms are heightened. Heavy drinkers who decide to go through self-detox from alcohol without professional help are most at risk during alcohol withdrawal because they put themselves in a precarious (and sometimes fatal) situation.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
As many as two million Americans experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms each year and roughly 225,000 are released from the hospital for a withdrawal related-episode. The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can range from minor to serious. Minor symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can take place hours or days after the last drink and can include nausea, sweating, and insomnia.
Major symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can include vomiting, dehydration and delirium tremens, which account for 15% of all withdrawal fatalities. Delirium tremens involve seizures, delirium, and utter confusion.
Why Self-Detox Fails
Most alcoholics will attempt to self-detox from alcohol at some point in their lives. A failed number of attempts will prompt alcoholics to enter a detox center. Alcoholics will have a realization that their self-detox method is ineffective and they need the help of a detox center. Despite the fact that a select few people are able to manage their alcohol addiction alone, it is never recommended.
Inpatient Alcohol Detox Treatment
Heavy drinkers with more severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal may require around-the-clock inpatient alcohol detox treatment. There is a definite alcohol withdrawal timeline and it’s best followed at detox. Those that opt for this type of treatment will live in our residential treatment facility.
Outpatient Alcohol Detox Treatment
Drinkers with mild to moderate alcohol withdrawal symptoms have the option of outpatient detox treatment. This kind of alcohol detox treatment still permits patients a regular routine schedule of work and going home.
Fulfilling The Mission to Sobriety
Detox always requires a comprehensive physical examination. Very often, alcoholics need intravenous fluids with electrolytes and doses of vitamin B supplements to help with the withdrawal process. Because withdrawal symptoms can progressively worsen, it’s imperative to seek the appropriate detox programs at a reputable detox center like Serenity House Detox in West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. With professional help, you can feel comfortable with our compassionate staff and be our way to a fulfilling life of sobriety. Don’t face alcohol addiction alone. We can help.
