Individuals often experience the most severe withdrawal symptoms during the first few days of detox. As the body works to cleanse itself of harmful substances, there are side effects that often occur as a result.
Some of the most common side effects individuals experience in detox are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, and problems sleeping. Some describe the feeling as being similar to a severe case of the flu.
For others, the experience is extremely painful, with waves of discomfort happening around the clock. The entire process can be overwhelming and exhausting for individuals, which is often what prevents addicts from getting the help they need.
It is crucial to understand that these symptoms, although unpleasant, do not last long. The withdrawal pains and discomfort are generally temporary and, over time, they become less intense and eventually subside.
Managing Withdrawal Symptoms
There are several ways a person can lessen the withdrawal symptoms they experience while going through detox. One of the most important things to do is to stay hydrated. Although this may seem like a simple task, your body is often against you. Holding liquids down through detox can be a challenge in itself. Try using various types of fluids like water, broth, or other clear fluids. You may experience nausea and vomiting during detox, which makes consuming extra liquid extremely important.
Medications are available to help individuals if necessary. Doctors will generally administer medications to individuals if they feel it will provide the most relief to them. Medication-assisted detox is often used for patients with opioid addictions to lessen the amount of side effects they experience. These are given in various dosages and often tapered down until an individual no longer needs them. The tapering process can take several days to months depending on the level of dependency.
Some patients find heating pads to be wonderful for lessening pain and aches in the body during detox. If you have difficulties sleeping, joint or muscle pains, heating pads can provide short-term relief to help you get through.
How long will these symptoms last?
The detox process is different for everyone. Depending on the type of drugs, a person’s overall health, and the length of time in which they have been actively using, drug detox can take seven to ten days or longer. A person will typically begin to experience withdrawal symptoms within 12-hours, which often start slowing and quickly increase in frequency and intensity.
At Asana Recovery, we have a specially designed detox program that helps guide patients through all of these unpleasant symptoms. We have trained medical professionals monitoring patients 24-hours a day to make sure they remain safe as their body rids itself of harmful substances.
Detox is the point at which most drug addicts relapse. This can be a very unpleasant thing to go through, which is why it is imperative for you to have a safe and comfortable environment available. Contact our admissions department today at (949) 438-4504 to get started today.
