Medical Detoxification Treatment in Seattle, WA
When it comes to alcohol and drug addiction, there are few treatment methods more effective than medical detox. Medical detox is the process of ridding a person's body of harmful, addictive toxins while under the care and supervision of health care professionals.
In addition to its high safety record and its overall effectiveness, medical detox also serves to maximize long-term success. It not only promotes short-term recovery, but it is also designed to eliminate physical dependence, well as promote healthy habits for the long-term.
If you or someone you love needs professional help for their substance dependence, call Seattle Drug Treatment Centers and find out more about medical detox protocols and other treatment options available. Dial (877) 804-1531 today.
What is Alcohol and Drug Detox?
When drugs are abused for a long period of time, the brain and body become accustomed to them and dependent upon them. Rapidly removing them (cold turkey) can lead to very painful and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. In some instances, these withdrawal symptoms can prove fatal if not addressed with the appropriate medical care.
In alcohol and drug medical detox, a staff of medical professionals closely monitors both your physical and mental state. Their purpose is to ensure that the withdrawal process is as streamlined as possible. If the doctors notice that you're reacting dangerously to the withdrawal symptoms, they might administer special medications to reduce the associated pain. Medications often used during drug detox include Suboxone, methadone, and Neurontin.
Drug and Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Stop using a drug cold turkey and there is a good chance you'll experience some sort of withdrawal. Those who have been using a particular drug for longer (or have been using it in larger amounts) will experience an increased array of symptoms. They are also likely to experience each symptom more intensely.
Though specific withdrawal symptoms vary from drug to drug, there are a few that almost everyone will experience during detox. These commonly include anxiety, sweating, nausea, insomnia, lack of appetite, trembling, and headaches. When it comes to alcohol and opiate detox, more severe withdrawal symptoms such as hallucinations, confusion, seizures, fever, and agitation are often experienced.
The assessment of withdrawal symptoms should be left to professionals. What may seem like a minor symptoms (e.g. sweating), may actually be the first sign of a very serious withdrawal syndrome. Alcohol detoxification should be carried out in a medical setting where medications can be administered to control symptoms and prevent serious complications like DT, seizures, and death.
For this reason, medical supervision is highly recommended. The qualified and experienced staff at Seattle Drug Treatment Centers can guide patients through every step of the recovery process, ensuring they feel as safe and as comfortable as possible.
The Role of a Detox Treatment Center
Drug and alcohol treatment centers that specialize in medical detox make the withdrawal process safer for patients. It is always a better idea to seek professional help during recovery than trying to cut yourself off from a drug at home.
Entering a residential drug treatment program has proven to have a higher success rate. In the short term, the process is far easier, safer, and more pain free. In the long term, it reduces the likelihood of a drug or alcohol relapse.
Get the help you need today. Seattle Drug Treatment Centers can help you get started on the path to sobriety. Call the addiction counselors today at (877) 804-1531 for more information and various rehab options.