Experience the Benefits of Medical Detox Programs at Vista Taos Renewal Center
What is Detox?
Detox is a term used to describe what happens when a person stops using substances like drugs or alcohol. Detox involves eliminating alcohol and other chemicals from the body.1
Depending on the person and substances used, detox can involve mild to severe withdrawal symptoms.
Scope of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Detoxification
Many people go through the detoxification process each year. For example, from 2020 to 2021, 130,490 individuals entered treatment for drug and alcohol use disorder.2 People may go through detox in many different ways.
Introduction to Medical Detox Programs
In medical detox programs, people complete detox under supervision. These programs allow people to rid their bodies of substances like drugs or alcohol safely. Healthcare professionals supervise the person and take care of any withdrawal symptoms.
People considering these detox programs, for themselves or loved ones, should learn about the detoxification process. Talk to a healthcare professional to determine the right choice. Read on to learn more about medical detox programs.
When is Detox Dangerous?
Detox can be dangerous without medical supervision. People can experience dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Talking to a healthcare provider before embarking on any detox program is essential.
People with severe alcohol or drug addiction, for example, should not attempt to detox by themselves. They may have serious, life-threatening symptoms like seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (DTs). They should always detox under medical supervision to safely manage withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the person and type of substance. Here are some common symptoms of detox:
Mild Symptoms of Detox
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Muscle aches and pains
- Skin rashes or acne
- Flu-like symptoms
Severe Symptoms of Detox
It is best to seek medical help when experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms. For example, people with a history of heavy alcohol use may have severe symptoms.
The following are some of the severe symptoms of detox:
- Seizures
- Delirium tremen, a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that can cause confusion and agitation
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Irregular heartbeat
- Respiratory distress
- High fever
- Psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia or delusions
Some people are at risk for severe withdrawal symptoms. So, it’s best to talk to healthcare professionals before beginning the detoxification process.
What is a Medical Detox Program, and How Does It Work?
Medical detox programs help people detox safely. They reduce the psychological effects of substance abuse. These detox programs occur in a medical setting, such as a specialized detox center.
These programs use many different tools to help a person complete detox. These programs may use medication or other therapies to help people overcome drug or alcohol dependence.
Duration of Detox Programs
Medical detox programs aim to stabilize a person’s physical and mental conditions to prepare them for further treatment.
Medical detox may last for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the addiction and the individual’s needs.
Typical Program Steps
Here is a step-by-step process on how medical detox typically works:
- Assessment: The first step involves a physical and psychological evaluation. Healthcare professionals will determine the individual’s medical history, drug or alcohol use, and other potential risks.
- Stabilization: Once the assessment is complete, the individual begins detoxing. Healthcare professionals provide close supervision. Medications may be given to manage withdrawal symptoms and keep the person comfortable.
- Monitoring: The medical staff watches the patient closely throughout the detox process. The medical staff will check the vital signs, administer medications as needed, and provide emotional support.
- Transition: Once the detox process is complete, the individual may transition to further treatment. The treatment may be inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation. Further treatment helps to address the underlying causes of addiction and develop a plan for long-term recovery.
How Does Medical Detox Treatment Compare to At-Home Detox
Some people attempt to complete the detoxification process at home or by themselves. However, at-home detox can be risky.
Listed below are some of the differences between at-home detox and medical detox programs.
At-Home Detox
People do not have medical supervision or support when attempting detox at home.
Here are some dangers of at-home detox:
- Withdrawal complications: Some withdrawal symptoms can cause severe physical and mental health complications. These can include dehydration or electrolyte imbalances. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and sometimes life-threatening.
- Risk of relapse: Quitting “cold turkey” is often unsuccessful for long-term recovery and has a high risk of relapse.
Medical Detox Programs
Medical detox programs provide a safe environment for the detoxification process. Medical professionals make sure the person stays healthy and safe throughout detox.
These programs are usually more intense and comprehensive, and the benefits include:
- Medical supervision: Healthcare professionals like doctors, nurses, and addiction specialists supervise the patient. They monitor the patient’s physical and medical health and give medications as needed. They provide emotional support.
- Medication management: Medical detox programs often use medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. This helps make the detox process more comfortable and increases the chances of success.
- Safety: Medical detox programs are considered safer than at-home detox. People with a history of severe alcohol or drug use, or underlying conditions like liver or kidney disease, may have a more complicated detox process and do best in a medical program. Medical detox programs also offer access to emergency care when needed.
- Effectiveness: The research says medical detox programs are more effective than at-home detox in achieving and maintaining sobriety. Medical detox programs often provide a continuum of care, like inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation. This type of care can provide ongoing support, therapy, and education to maintain recovery long-term.
Pros and Cons of Medical Detox Treatment
People considering medical detox treatment may want to know the advantages and disadvantages.
These detox programs can be an effective way to complete the first stages of recovery. Still, there are some drawbacks to consider.
Pros of Medical Detox Programs
- Effectiveness: Medical detox programs usually work better than other forms of detox.
- Medication management: Healthcare professionals can provide medications in medical detox programs. These medications help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Medications help reduce any potential withdrawal-related harms.
- Medical supervision: Healthcare professionals make sure patients are safe and comfortable.
- Additional treatment options: Patients might take advantage of other treatments, like group therapy, while completing detox.
Cons of Medical Detox Programs
The following are some potential drawbacks to medical detox treatment:
- Expense: These programs can often be expensive due to medications and medical supervision.
- Medical risks: There are potential risks associated with using medications. Some drugs can have side effects. Some individuals may also be unable to tolerate medications or have other conditions that make it challenging to complete the program.
- Need for continued care: Medical detox is not a complete treatment plan for long-term sobriety. It manages the physical symptoms of substance abuse, but people need more help to address the underlying causes of addiction. After medical detox programs, patients should follow up with therapy, counseling, and lifestyle modifications.
Talk to a doctor or therapist about medical detox programs to avoid potential drawbacks. Healthcare professionals can help people decide whether medical detox programs are the best choice.
What Types of Medical Detox Programs Are Available?
Medical Detox Program Opportunities
Some programs may be more appropriate than others for a person. Medical detox programs depend on the individual’s specific preferences and needs and may include the following:
- Inpatient medical detox: Patients must stay in a treatment center for detoxification. People receive 24/7 medical supervision, medical care, and access to therapy and counseling. Inpatient detox may last five to seven days, depending on the person’s needs and addiction severity.
- Outpatient medical detox: Outpatient medical detox programs allow individuals to receive medical care and support at home. Patients usually visit a healthcare provider’s office or clinic during the day.
- Medically-assisted detox: Healthcare professionals prescribe medications to manage withdrawal symptoms.3 It helps to reduce the risk of complications. This type of program is done in an inpatient or outpatient setting and may continue on an ongoing basis.
- Residential detox program: A residential detox program is a type of medical detox program that provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to undergo detoxification from drugs or alcohol. It involves residing at a treatment center for the detox process. Depending on the individual’s needs, this program may last five to ten days.
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): This is a type of structured, intensive outpatient program (IOP) for mental health or substance use disorders. Patients attend treatment several hours a day per week. PHP length depends on the person’s needs and progress and can last months, weeks, or shorter.
How Can a Medical Detox Program Help a Person Achieve Sobriety?
Recovery is a process. Medical detox is an essential first step to sobriety and long-term recovery.
Medical detox programs help provide stability and comfort as the body adjusts without the accustomed substance. This can set people on the right path to sobriety.
Here are some key benefits of medical detox programs for achieving sobriety:
Medical Detox Programs Improve Withdrawal Safety and Comfort
During medical detox programs, a team of professionals monitors patients as they withdraw from alcohol and other drugs.
This team may include doctors, nurses, mental health counselors, and addiction specialists. The goal is always to help the individual achieve sobriety safely and comfortably.
Medical Detox Programs Prepare People for Treatment
Detox can also prepare individuals for the next step in their recovery journey. This is usually an addiction treatment program. Treatment programs help individuals gain insight into their substance use disorder and learn healthier ways to cope with life’s challenges.
Seeking professional help allows people to develop a solid treatment plan. With medical detox as a strong foundation, individuals may be more likely to commit to a successful course of addiction treatment. That way, they can make healthy changes and achieve long-term sobriety.
Benefits of Sobriety
Medical detox programs can feel intimidating for many people with substance use disorders. However, it can be the first step to sobriety and successful recovery. People entering recovery can find hope in a better life after treatment.
There are so many benefits to achieving and maintaining sobriety. People who successfully remain in recovery enjoy better well-being and physical health.
Here are some of the benefits of sobriety:
- Mental clarity
- Improved relationships
- Increased self-esteem
- Fewer health risks
- More control over one’s life
- Greater financial stability
- Improved physical health
- Better quality of life
- Increased productivity
- Less anxiety and depression
It’s important to discuss medical detox programs with a healthcare provider and loved ones. This can help determine the best treatment options for sobriety.
Medical Detox Programs: Vista Taos Renewal Center
Vista Taos Renewal Center is a family-owned substance abuse treatment center. We use a holistic medical, psychological, and spiritual approach to support people in their recovery. We offer a safe, warm environment for people to heal.
A medical detox program is a treatment program that helps individuals achieve sobriety. Vista Taos Renewal Center offers a range of programs, such as residential treatment, medical detox, and outpatient programs.
What to Expect at Vista Taos
Inpatient medical detox at Vista Taos Renewal Center provides a safe and supportive environment for the recovery journey.
We offer a whole-person approach provided by a team of experienced healthcare professionals. You can visit our website to learn more about the medical detox program.
Contact Us
We are ready to help you take the first step to recovery. Vista Taos Renewal Center uses best practices in a unique environment that aids recovery from their addiction.
Contact us at Vista Taos Renewal Center to get started today.
Resources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64119/
- https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/substance-misuse-treatment-for-adults-statistics-2020-to-2021/adult-substance-misuse-treatment-statistics-2020-to-2021-report
- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery
- https://www.samhsa.gov/recovery-month
Ready to Renew Your Life and Well-Being?
- Expense: These programs can often be expensive due to medications and medical supervision.
- Medical risks: There are potential risks associated with using medications. Some drugs can have side effects. Some individuals may also be unable to tolerate medications or have other conditions that make it challenging to complete the program.
- Need for continued care: Medical detox is not a complete treatment plan for long-term sobriety. It manages the physical symptoms of substance abuse, but people need more help to address the underlying causes of addiction. After medical detox programs, patients should follow up with therapy, counseling, and lifestyle modifications.
