The Danger of Detoxing Alone
Detoxification is a process that rarely gets the focus of addicts. Detoxification is the means of being physically addicted to drugs or alcohol. In Los Angeles, there are only a few set of programs that are specifically designed to be a drug and alcohol detox program. Alta Centers is a detox facility in Los Angeles that provides drug and alcohol treatment services to those who are physically addicted to drugs or alcohol.
There are three classes of drugs that are physically addictive:
There are three classes of drugs that are physically addictive, Opiates, Benzodiazepines, and Stimulants. Detoxification from these drugs alone can be dangerous, and it is essential to know the health risks associated with detoxing alone. In the 2016 surgeon general report on addiction, the surgeon general highlighted that being addicted to substances at a severe point could be very dangerous to one’s health if they were to detox alone.
Detoxification in the physical sense is made evident by physical symptoms of withdrawal which The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence says are
- Shakiness
- Digestive Upset or Loss of Appetite
- Headaches
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Irritability
Within a detox facility, these withdrawal symptoms are made manageable by medications that curb the withdrawal symptoms and then using those medications to then taper the substances away from the body. This process takes about 7 days and is normally safe and secure.
Where this can be risky, is when an individual is detoxing from drugs and alcohol and choses to stop these substances without managing the withdrawal symptoms with a medical team. This can result in death especially with substances like alcohol or Xanax. It is important that a facility handles the detoxification process because it can be very detrimental to one’s health when they are going through physical withdrawal symptoms.
Withdraw Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms can cause complications like heart palpitations, hallucinations, seizures and delirium tremens (DT’s). These of which can cause severe issues and even death. It is vital if you or your loved one is looking at detoxing from substances or alcohol to seek out a facility that can meet your needs so you can detox safely.
Where most people see detoxification is through television and films, where there typically is a character who is in a large amount of pain. While this is true as to what happens within the detox process, it is important to note that this is what happens when an individual tries to detox from drugs and alcohol alone. Withdrawal is a process that needs to be managed in a safe environment with professionals who can monitor an individual and assess if a higher level of care is required. While there are many programs offering at home detox solutions and outpatient detox, it is important to note the severity and how quickly drugs and alcohol withdrawal may have unexpected complications. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, more than 5 percent of people who attempt detoxification on their own without the assistance of a medical professional develop delirium tremors. Addiction is a complicated illness and science is constantly updating in the field of healthcare in general but especially in addiction treatment.
It is essential to find a program that fits your needs and understands alcohol and drug detox like Alta Centers does. At Alta Centers, in Los Angeles, we specialize in only detoxification for the very reason that it is such a complicated and challenging process. Our program exclusively is made to treat withdrawal symptoms and establish the first step in the recovery process. We can help you start the process of your recovery by safely detoxing you from drugs and alcohol. We are in-network with Beacon Health Options and All insurances provided by the Screen Actors Guild to support those who are struggling with withdrawal symptoms in the Los Angeles area. We also accept Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare as an out of network provider. We are here for those who are struggling and want to receive quality treatment in a safe environment.
