Menu Close

What is Drug Detox? An In-Depth Explanation to Survive Drug Withdrawal

Drug DetoxContrary to common belief, people from all walks of life use drugs and alcohol daily to self-soothe and self-medicate. For some, social drinking becomes habitual. For others, prescription opioids or benzo develop into prescription drug dependence. No matter the addiction, drug, and alcohol detox is the safest, most effective way to stop addiction, prevent reuse, and improve mental health. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with drugs or alcohol, call Northpoint Recovery now. Don’t try to detox alone. Our comprehensive inpatient programs provide a range of detox and recovery options to fit your needs. Reach us today at 208.486.0130 to learn more about beginning drug detox. 

What Is Drug Detox?

Detox is the first stage of addiction recovery. Like health detoxes, drug and alcohol detoxes focus on helping the body detoxify drugs and alcohol while mitigating withdrawal symptoms. No matter the addiction, withdrawal is the most difficult part of recovery. Physical, mental, and emotional effects can make it hard to stop using drugs or alcohol without medical assistance.

Detox focuses on medical and psychiatric support during the first days and weeks a person stops drinking or using drugs.  

Understanding Drug and Alcohol Withdrawal 

The first step of withdrawal is called acute withdrawal. It lasts for about two weeks, including physical and psychological symptoms.

The physical symptoms of acute withdrawal include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Muscle pain
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Weight loss
  • Digestive problems
  • Heart palpitations
  • Cold flashes
  • Trouble breathing
  • Increased heart rate
  • Hot or cold sweats
  • Tremors 
  • Chest pain
  • Headaches

Psychological symptoms can include:

  • Paranoia
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Suicidal ideation
  • Anger
  • Irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Drug cravings
  • Alcohol cravings
  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Nightmares
  • Fatigue

First withdrawal symptoms usually occur between 6 and 24 hours after drugs or alcohol leave the bloodstream. While initial detox may only last a week, these symptoms can occur and reoccur. During withdrawal, willpower is often not enough to keep someone from relapsing. A detox program at Northpoint Recovery can help reduce cravings and treat withdrawal symptoms. 

Dangers of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome

For some, withdrawal symptoms last longer than a few weeks or months. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, also called PAWS, is a common condition that causes withdrawal symptoms to continue and reoccur. 

PAWS symptoms can include:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Depression
  • Mood swings
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Stress sensitivity
  • Drug cravings

For some, these symptoms can return months or years after they’ve stopped using drugs or alcohol. Addiction therapy is essential for those living with and managing PAWS to prevent reuse. 

Medically Assisted Detox For Safe Recovery

Today, medically assisted detox is increasingly popular. Used in residential and outpatient programs, doctors and nurses administer medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and help people slowly wean off drugs and alcohol. This can reduce drug cravings and health complications. For many people, medically assisted detox makes withdrawal more manageable, so they can begin healing through addiction therapy and dual diagnosis treatments. 

Start Drug and Alcohol Detox Across Idaho Today

If you or your loved ones struggle with drug and alcohol detox or withdrawal, know you are not alone. The team at Northpoint Recovery is here to help. Our comprehensive inpatient programs provide a range of detox support and care. With a range of therapies, medically assisted detox, and plans to fit your needs, Northpoint Recovery can help you, and your loved ones safely recover. 

Call Northpoint Recovery Now to Get Started and Learn More About Our Drug and Alcohol Detox Programs

Let the friendly staff at Northpoint Recovery help you and your loved ones. Call us now at 208.486.0130 to learn more about drug and alcohol detox at Northpoint Recovery.