Detox from drugs and alcohol is unpleasant for anyone who is going through it, and one of the biggest reasons people who suffer from addiction continue using is because of the fear of withdrawal symptoms. Because of this fear, many people want to go through detox in the quickest way possible. However, the dangers of rapid detox can far outweigh the benefits, and there are risks involved in taking that route.
What is Detox?
Detoxification, commonly called “detox”, is the process the body goes through in order to rid itself of toxins. Drugs and alcohol are toxic to the body and its functionality, they also cause a physical dependence. Once that physical dependence is reached, the body will go through a physical state of withdrawal to detox, or get rid of the substances and the dependence.
Alcohol
Alcohol detox can consist of symptoms like tremors or shakes, headaches, muscle or body aches, spikes in blood pressure, and even seizures. The simplest of these symptoms can be uncomfortable, and the thought that one drink can alleviate these symptoms can lead to a path of destruction. The seemingly never ending cycle begins all over again. Getting out of that whirlpool quickly is often desired, with the least amount of discomfort and time. Choosing to endure the dangers of rapid detox though, could have long lasting side effects, and can even prove to be fatal.
Opioids including Heroin
Opioid detox can be just as uncomfortable and dangerous as alcohol detox. The same symptoms, the same discomfort, and the same thoughts can occur for those going through opioid detox. Muscle cramps, restlessness, and depression often lead opioid addicts to using again. Using drugs after a period of sobriety can lead to overdose.
Medically supervised detox is highly recommended for detox from opioids, including heroin. Often, people want the easier, softer route when it comes to detox, and that can lead to choosing rapid detox, however the dangers of rapid detox are a risk an individual should understand before choosing to take that route.
What is Rapid Detox?
Rapid detox is the process of receiving anesthesia to allow the body to undergo withdrawal symptoms while unconscious. While this sounds enticing, almost a dream come true for most addicts and alcoholics, the dangers associated with rapid detox can be detrimental to the person undergoing this form of treatment.
Rapid detoxification generally takes place in a hospital, under the medical supervision of professionals. This is the main benefit of rapid detox. Being able to be medically monitored and avoid severe symptoms of withdrawal such as seizures can be beneficial. However, understanding the dangers of rapid detox is important when choosing this method.
The Dangers of Rapid Detox
General anesthesia has its own set of risks. While the prospect of compressing the process of detox might sound good, undergoing general anesthesia carries serious risks. The person undergoing it can experience allergic reactions, and can also begin experiencing breathing problems. Some of the other dangers of rapid detox include:
- Irregular heart functionality
- Psychosis
- Renal failure
- Delirium
- Death
In addition to the risks associated with anesthesia, another danger of rapid detox is the fact that simply being “put under” does not address any mental health symptoms associated with addiction. This is vital to a successful recovery from drug and alcohol abuse.
Benefits of Medically Supervised Detox
Being medically supervised during the detoxification process is recommended when ending the use of drugs and alcohol. Having medical staff to address the physical symptoms associated with withdrawal can lead to a successful treatment of the addiction. It can also help to ease any feelings of discomfort as the body begins to get the harmful toxins out. Having different medications to alleviate the symptoms and ways to distract the mind can help those struggling to stay the course.
One of the most beneficial things about medically supervised detox is the ability able to address mental health concerns that may arise once the substances leave the body. Many addicts and alcoholics find themselves having feelings of anxiety and depression once they stop using, and addressing these things can help to achieve long term recovery.
Find Help for Drug and Alcohol Addiction in South FL
Making the decision to end substance abuse is a major step toward recovery. Finding the proper care to suit your needs is the next step. At Retreat of Broward, we strive to provide the safest care for those seeking to stop using. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse and looking to start a journey to recovery, contact us today and let us guide you through the process.
