Alcohol detoxification or detox is the process of removing alcohol from a person’s system while managing their withdrawal symptoms. Medical detox from alcohol is usually the first step in treating alcohol use disorder, as individuals with this condition tend to experience severe withdrawals when they try to cut back on or quit drinking. Attempting to detox from alcohol at home or without medical support increases the likelihood of health complications, as withdrawals can include mild to severe symptoms like tremors, seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens. As such, our Military and Veterans in Recovery program offers medical alcohol detox to reduce these risks and ensure that our clients move forward in their sobriety.
Alcohol Detox Timeline & Symptoms
The alcohol detox process may vary in duration and severity depending on several factors, including the person’s level of alcohol dependence, how long they’ve been drinking, their age, and their physical health, among others. Typically, alcohol detox symptoms can begin within 6 to 12 hours after the person’s last drink and can last for as long as two weeks.
The timeline and symptoms of detoxing from alcohol may go as follows:
- Early stage: As we previously mentioned, the first stage of alcohol detox occurs within 6 to 12 hours after the person’s last drink. At this stage, symptoms may include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and abdominal pain.
- Peak stage: The second stage of alcohol detox usually takes place between 24 and 72 hours after the person last consumed alcohol and usually includes more severe symptoms like tremors, sweating, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and confusion.
- Late stage: The third and final stage of alcohol detox usually occurs after 72 hours of not drinking and includes symptoms like hallucinations, delirium tremens, and seizures. These withdrawal symptoms are usually the most severe of alcohol detoxification and require immediate medical attention.
It’s important to note that not everyone who goes through alcohol withdrawal will experience all of these symptoms or this timeline. The severity and duration of detox depend greatly on individual circumstances. Even so, it’s always recommended that individuals suffering from alcoholism seek out medical alcohol detox to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
Military & Veterans Alcohol Detox Program
Alcoholism is a major issue in the veteran and military community, with studies showing that this demographic is more likely to struggle with alcohol abuse and addiction than the general population. The unique stressors and experiences linked to military service – such as combat exposure and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – may increase the likelihood of engaging in alcohol abuse as a form of self-medication.
Military culture also plays a significant role in alcohol abuse in the military, as many service members use drinking as a way to cope with the stresses of deployment. The social norms surrounding alcohol use in the military may also encourage heavy drinking among service members.
Alcoholism among veterans and active-duty personnel can have significant consequences, including relationship and financial issues and increased risk of mental health problems like depression and suicide. Thankfully, Banyan has various veterans addiction treatment centers across the nation that offer medical detox for alcohol that can help.
A medical alcohol detox is a form of treatment in which the individual is slowly tapered off drinking under the supervision and care of a medical team. This type of detoxification is best suited for individuals with severe alcohol use disorders who are at risk of experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms. This is especially the case for alcoholics with a history of seizures, delirium tremens, and other health conditions.
Clients undergoing care at a Banyan alcohol detox facility receive 24-hour monitoring by our medical professionals, who may administer medication (as needed) to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Our military and veterans detox is designed to offer safe and comfortable withdrawal support and prepare clients for ongoing alcohol addiction treatment.
Finding Alcohol Detox Centers Near Me
Following detox, our clients are referred to a comprehensive treatment program, during which they may undergo individual counseling and group therapy to address the underlying factors of their alcohol use disorders.
Contact Banyan Treatment Centers today to verify your insurance and learn more about our rehab programs for veterans and service members.
Related Reading:
Most Insurance Plans Accepted
At Banyan Treatment Centers, our goal is to make sure that anyone who needs treatment from drug and alcohol addiction are able to get the help needed to assist them on the road to recovery. If you don't have insurance contact us to inquire about alternate methods regarding treatment for yourself or a loved one.
