Drug Detox

Detox

“Detox” is a term that has become trendy today with the increased focus on physical well-being that society has adopted. It is loosely used to refer to the process of removing toxins from the body. In the case of drug detox, the toxins that are eliminated from the system are whatever illicit drug an addict has been using.

Detox is an essential component of drug recovery, and it is not a simple process. Many addicts are nervous about what to expect about this part of rehabilitation.

What Happens When Addicts Enter Drug Detox?

When an addict enters drug detox, they are assessed to determine exactly what their addiction requires. An intake counselor considers the health and addiction history of an individual in order to determine how to proceed. It is essential that an addict is as honest as possible as the right techniques must be chosen for success.

Why Is Drug Detox Important?

Drug detox is essential as there are many drugs that are physically addictive. Withdrawal symptoms surface when addicts stop using certain substances as prolonged use has left the body dependent on them. There are a number of reasons why drug withdrawal compromises long-term recovery.

• Withdrawal symptoms are physically uncomfortable. Often, addicts find it easier to return to drug use in order to reduce and eliminate those symptoms.
• There are substantial health risks that withdrawal symptoms can produce. Addicts may falsely believe that they have are safer by using drugs.
• Withdrawal symptoms can include mental health issues, and if these surface, addicts may put themselves in harm’s way.

All of the above can act as roadblocks if individuals are trying to detox on their own, but drug detox addresses the issues and makes recovery possible.

What Are the Symptoms of Drug Withdrawal?

Specific symptoms of drug withdrawal can vary depending on the drug that is being abused; however, there are some shared withdrawal symptoms. It is important for addicts to be familiar with these so they know what to expect in drug detox as well as why a treatment program makes a difference. These general withdrawal symptoms include:

• Fever
• Digestive problems
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Hot/cold flashes
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue and drowsiness

There are more severe drug withdrawal symptoms that can include both seizures and heart problems. Fortunately, these symptoms can be controlled.

Drug Detox Techniques

There are a variety of different techniques used for drug detox. Many centers focus on traditional treatment methods, but there are alternative methods that can be used as well. The common techniques used by drug detox centers include:

• Medicine that is administered to keep the withdrawal symptoms at bay. A common drug prescribed for opiate addiction is methadone.
• Medical monitoring to ensure that health and safety are top priorities.
• Holistic treatment with the use of vitamins and herbal supplements.
• Alternative wellness treatment using massage, aromatherapy, acupuncture and other techniques.
• Activity-based programs designed to provide distraction and other outlets for those facing withdrawal symptoms.

After Drug Detox

Many rehab programs require addicts to undergo a drug detox program before they will admit them for counseling. The belief is that addicts can better focus on counseling if there are no longer toxins in the body.