Medical Detoxification Programs in San Antonio, TX

Medical detox is the process of getting rid of harmful, addictive toxins from the body, while under medical supervision. Those with more severe addictions may experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms are managed during a medical detox. Medical detox is the first step in drug treatment, and the professionals at drug treatment centers can provide patients with the appropriate care and support needed. To find out more, call (877) 804-1531.

Why is it Dangerous to Detox at Home?

Drug detox can be intense, especially in the first hours and days. During this time, medical and psychiatric staff members are often available to provide support and assistance. In severe cases, the detox needs be done in a hospital. Other times, it can be managed in a rehab facility. The first few hours of medical detox are often the most trying, and many issues may arise.

Types of Programs

There are many different types of drug detox programs. Some of the most common include outpatient and inpatient detox. While outpatient detox is generally recommended for those with milder symptoms, individuals with more severe symptoms do best in inpatient detox. There are also specific types of detox programs, including opiate detox and alcohol detox.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms generally occur in those with a more severe addiction. In many cases, this type of addiction has been heavy and prolonged. The withdrawal symptoms often depend on the length of the addiction and drug that was used. However, some common withdrawal symptoms affect patients regardless of their drug of choice. This includes mood disturbances such as mood swings and irritability, insomnia and other sleep disturbances, and physical issues such as shaking, sweating, and nausea and vomiting. Most people also craves their drug of choice during this time to stop the withdrawal symptoms.

Why Does Withdrawal Occur?

Withdrawal occurs when the body has become dependent on the drug and is reacting in a specific way when the drug of choice is stopped. During alcohol withdrawal, the neurotransmitters in the brain are scrambled and out of whack as they try to adjust to not having alcohol. Whether it's drugs or alcohol, the brain and body are in shock when the drug is suddenly stopped. Some people return to the drug simply to ease withdrawal symptoms.

How Does Detox Trigger Relapse without Treatment?

Withdrawal symptoms are often severe. In some cases, the person wants to stop taking the drug but is unable or unwilling to do so because of the withdrawal symptoms. Detox is just the first step toward successful recovery. Without treatment afterwards, the person is much more likely to relapse. One of the main reasons is because treatment centers provide ongoing care, even after the person has successfully completed the program.

Seeking Help

The detox process is often physically and mentally challenging. More severe addictions typically have worse withdrawal symptoms and are generally managed in an inpatient facility. Such facilities provide expert care and attention from medical professionals trained to deal with detox. Depending on the severity of symptoms, the person may need close monitoring in the first couple of days. Residential drug and alcohol treatment centers also provide continuing care, support, and recovery resources after the detox period has ended.

Call San Antonio Drug Treatment Centers at (877) 804-1531 for help and information about treatment.