Are There Stages of Alcohol Detox?

Alcoholism is the horrible gift that just keeps on giving. People with a drinking problem often find themselves dealing with a myriad of personal problems–problems with relationships, work, illegal activities, and even significant health problems. Ironically, even the process of quitting is fraught with issues. Ultimately, the alcoholic has to decide whether to quit or risk permanent health damage. When someone does stop, they should be ready for the stages of alcohol detox.

The Stages of Alcohol Detox

After months or years of an alcohol abuse disorder, the alcoholic has to realize their body and brain have suffered. When they stop drinking, that same body and brain are left to cope without help from alcohol. It changes the way the body functions as it seeks to get back to normal. The medical profession refers to this transition back to normalcy as detoxing.

For the alcohol-dependent person, the process comes in three fairly predictable stages of alcohol detox.

Stage One–This stage usually starts within eight hours of the last drink. The withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and abdominal/muscle pain.

Stage Two–This stage usually starts within 24-48 hours of the last drink. The withdrawal symptoms for this stage could include breathing problems, high blood pressure, cramping, and confusion.

Stage Three–This stage usually starts within 48-72 hours of the last drink. Significant withdrawal symptoms could include seizures, tremors, hallucinations, and depression.

Detox Programs

Given the danger one faces while detoxing, many doctors recommend people get help through a professional detox program. At our Tides Edge alcohol detox program in Jacksonville, Florida, we help our patients get through all the stages of alcohol detox as safely as possible.

In most cases, we employ a medical detox program. Under the watchful eye of medical professionals, patients progress through the detox process. Should anyone show signs of discomfort, doctors have the option of providing certain prescription medications for pain and sleeping issues. When the patient gets through detox in good order, they are usually ready to face the rigors of therapy.

Elite Treatment Service at Beaches Recovery

Aside from the stages of alcohol detox program at Tides Edge, we offer an extensive menu of addiction treatment services. We accept most major insurances and operate under accreditation from the Joint Commission. Our elite services include:

• Residential treatment programs
• Outpatient drug rehab program
• Dual Diagnosis treatment for co-existing conditions
• Family counseling services
• Young adult rehab program
• Aftercare program

Before you face the stages of alcohol detox, contact Beaches Recovery for assistance. For detox and other addiction treatment services, call 866.605.0532. The truth is you don’t have to live your life with the disease of addiction. This one phone call is all it takes to get you on the road to recovery.