Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance in the United States, according to the 2021 National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Those struggling with severe alcohol addiction are at risk for life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, which is why medical detox is strongly recommended. This alcohol detoxification guide in Nashville, TN explains the key aspects of detox, ensuring you or a loved one can safely and comfortably begin recovery.
The alcohol detoxification guide in Nashville TN will walk you through:
- The medical detox process
- Safety protocols designed for alcohol detox
- How treatments reduce withdrawal discomfort and improve detox success
Fear of withdrawal shouldn’t stop you from pursuing alcohol detoxification. Modern medicine offers effective treatments to ease symptoms and ensure a smoother recovery. Untreated alcoholism leads to serious health risks like cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and alcohol poisoning. Seeking detox at a facility experienced in addiction treatment is crucial for preventing these conditions and starting a healthier life.
Can Alcoholism Be Treated Successfully?
Yes. Many people have successfully recovered from alcoholism and now live free from the burden of addiction. A key predictor of success is the desire to end alcohol dependency and the willingness to make important lifestyle changes. Support from knowledgeable professionals also plays a crucial role in recovery. Our treatment center is run by licensed doctors with years of experience in treating alcoholism. They not only care for patients seeking freedom from alcohol but also stay up-to-date on the latest clinical research in addiction treatment.
The Detox Process: What to Expect
The alcohol detoxification guide is the process of alcohol detox involves removing alcohol from your body in a safe, monitored environment. It begins with a call to our facility to schedule admission. During this call, a staff member gathers information about your current alcohol use and reviews your health insurance coverage. If applicable, they can also explain how Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA) may help with treatment costs. Once this information is collected, you’ll discuss how soon you can start treatment.
When preparing to enter the facility, we recommend bringing a week’s worth of clothing and personal hygiene products, such as a toothbrush, shampoo, and feminine sanitary items. These essentials are needed since you’ll be staying 24 hours a day during inpatient treatment. We prohibit certain items like weapons, drugs, and alcohol. If you have special dietary needs, such as vegetarian or diabetic requirements, you can discuss them with our staff before your arrival.
What to Bring to Treatment
Before starting treatment, a physical exam will be conducted to document your current health condition and identify any concerns that could affect detox. During the exam, you’ll discuss your physical and mental health history, including your drinking habits. Once the exam is complete, the detox process begins. If there is a delay in starting detox, a doctor will explain why and when it can begin.
Withdrawal symptoms may appear within 12 hours of your last drink. Our staff will closely monitor your condition and provide care based on your symptoms. The team focuses on managing your health while minimizing discomfort and cravings.
How Long Does Detox Last?
The length of detox depends on the severity of the addiction and your health. It can last as little as two days or, in more severe cases, extend beyond nine days. The goal is to get you through the worst withdrawal symptoms and prepare you for the next phase of recovery, such as counseling or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings.
Keeping You Safe During Detox
The biggest advantage of medical detox is the constant monitoring by healthcare professionals. They can prescribe medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and provide care if any unexpected health issues arise.