What to Expect During the Detox Process
When someone is addicted to a substance for a prolonged period, their body acclimatizes to it, even changing how it functions. Therefore, the sudden withdrawal of these substances will cause the body to react negatively. In this video, health professionals discuss aspects of the detoxing process and what patients can expect. The detoxing process serves to wean the body off its dependency on the substance or substances being used.
Some withdrawal symptoms include irritability, flu-like symptoms, vomiting, nausea, fatigue, headaches, and body aches.
The medical staff can administer medication to alleviate these symptoms, especially for those addicted to opiates, depressants like alcohol and benzos, or multiple substances. The symptoms patients experience usually start within a few hours of the last substance use before peaking on the second or third day. After that, they begin to subside, and within a week, the detox process should be complete. However, the detox period will differ amongst individuals. Some individuals can even take months to fully detox, but addiction is still treatable and manageable. Once the body is detoxed, the medical staff will recommend a residential program where patients can continue their recovery journey.
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