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Alcohol Detoxification

Most treatments for alcoholism will begin with a period of detoxification. A detoxification process is necessary to help break a physical chemical addiction and it will require a total abstinence from alcohol to clear alcohol residuals from the body. When alcohol residuals linger in the body, cravings will persist. Recovery from alcohol addiction will be especially difficult to achieve until these alcohol residuals are no longer physically present in the body. When the body is completely detoxified from alcohol, therapeutic treatment can begin.

Detoxification periods should always be accompanied by support sessions from friends, family and most importantly, trained medical professionals. Some severe detoxification periods can put a person's life at risk, and they should always take place at a clinic, hospital, or rehab center.

For those that plan to detoxify on their own, almost no such products have passed government standards. The risk of failure and worsening the situation increases if this is the path an alcoholic intends to take. It is best to consult a doctor first before trying any detoxification product.

During detoxification, the intensity of the effects of alcohol withdrawal depends on the severity of the patient's addiction. Detoxification programs are made to fit the unique needs of the individual. Generally, the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include physical agitation, increased pulse rate, sweating, insomnia and vomiting. Some extreme cases have also experienced depression, auditory hallucinations and seizures.

As symptoms can be so severe, alcohol detoxification should always be done under authorized supervision. Professionals have many tools to assist and ease this difficult detoxification process. Some of the most severe symptoms of withdrawal can sometimes be eased by a variety of medications. Certain sedatives, benzodiazenines, and anticonvulsant medications are some of the more common prescriptions used during a detoxification period. These will not alleviate all the symptoms, but they may help prevent seizures and help calm people down enough to get some sleep.

Drug-free methods to assist in detoxification also exist. These methods include using natural supplements to help the body rebound from the depressing effects of alcohol, and using acupuncture as means help alleviate some of the physical symptoms. Some of the natural products with positive effects include vitamin supplements that speed recovery time. Acupuncture has been known to help with tremors, headaches and nausea. Again, make sure that you only use natural supplements or alternative medication under the supervision of your doctor.

The time necessary for a complete alcohol detoxification typically runs anywhere from 3 to 14 days. Support of family and friends over this period will be a critical first step to recovery. Finding a doctor to help you with the detoxification process is as easy as calling your local Alcoholics Anonymous, or local rehabilitation clinic.

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