Alcohol detox in Southern California
Overcoming an alcohol use disorder is not easy, but it is well worth it. However, some bumps in the road may make it feel more difficult to stay the course. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms are one of these obstacles. Alcohol detox in Southern California can help you successfully move past them, though.
Monarch Treatment Center offers comprehensive and compassionate alcohol detox in Burbank. As part of a cohesive treatment plan, we offer medically supervised, inpatient alcohol detox. With our 24/7 support and care, you can safely, comfortably, and effectively detox from alcohol.
Read on to learn more about the importance of supervised alcohol withdrawal and learn how medical detox works.
What is alcohol detox?
When a person with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) stops or decreases their alcohol use, they can have mild to severe symptoms. According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 50% of people with AUD experience withdrawal.
The good news is that alcohol detox can help individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms. The goals of alcohol withdrawal treatment are to:
- Reduce symptoms
- Prevent severe complications
- Help patients avoid returning to alcohol use
What are the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal?
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically start within six (6) to 24 hours of stopping or significantly decreasing alcohol use. These symptoms can range from mildly uncomfortable to severe or even deadly.
Below are potential alcohol withdrawal symptoms, listed from mild to most severe:
- Headache
- Anxiety or irritability
- Insomnia
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Heart palpitations
- Elevated blood pressure
- Elevated heart rate
- High body temperature
- Shakiness
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Delirium tremens (DTs)
Why medical supervision is essential for alcohol withdrawal
Unmanaged alcohol withdrawal can be an uncomfortable and even dangerous process. Sometimes, symptoms can start as mild and progress into something more concerning. As a result, supervised alcohol withdrawal is important.
In addition to keeping you safe and comfortable, alcohol detox in Southern California has another benefit. Supervised withdrawal can help you avoid returning to alcohol use.
The following comparison illustrates why:
- Someone experiencing withdrawal symptoms without medical support may start consuming alcohol again to make their discomfort stop.
- With medical support, a person is much more comfortable during detox. As a result, they are likely to be less tempted to return to use.
Alcohol detox in Southern California at Monarch
Monarch Treatment Center offers expert alcohol detox in Southern California. Our inpatient rehab facility is a safe haven, offering comprehensive care for your mental and physical health. It also provides a supportive community to promote long-term stability and recovery.
At every step, our team customizes your alcohol detox, treatment, and recovery journey. From detox to aftercare, we make sure your treatment plan fits your needs and goals.
How long does alcohol detox take?
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically peak 24 to 72 hours after your last drink. However, some symptoms can last longer.
Because each patient is unique, we tailor your medical detox plan to your recovery timeline.
Medications used during detox
To keep you comfortable and prevent complications, we offer different medications to support your needs during detox. The types of medications that our team prescribes will vary depending on your symptoms:
- Gabapentin and carbamazepine can help with mild, non-worsening symptoms. They can also reduce cravings.
- Benzodiazepines and barbiturates can treat moderate symptoms and help prevent delirium tremens.
- Beta-blockers or clonidine can lower high blood pressure and a fast heart rate.
- IV fluids can help with dehydration, while anti-nausea medicine can help with stomach upset.
Risks of detoxing from alcohol at home
Detoxing from alcohol at home is not worth the risk. While some people may be fine, others can experience very serious and even life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
What are delirium tremens?
Delirium tremens (DTs) can occur when someone with AUD suddenly stops drinking. This is a severe and life-threatening condition. Its symptoms include:
- Tremors or shakes
- Confusion or hallucinations
- Agitation or anxiety
- Heavy sweating
- High body temperature
- Fast heart rate
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Nausea and vomiting
According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 1% to 1.5% of people who detox from alcohol will develop DTs. Additionally, 15% of people who do not receive medical treatment for DTs do not survive. With treatment, the survival rate from DTs is 95%.
FAQs about alcohol detox
How long does alcohol withdrawal last?
Withdrawal symptoms tend to peak 24 to 72 hours after your last drink of alcohol. However, some symptoms can last as long as a few weeks.
Is alcohol detox painful?
Alcohol withdrawal can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. However, supervised alcohol detox can help manage the symptoms to keep you safer and more comfortable.
Does insurance cover alcohol detox in California?
Yes, most health insurance plans will cover the cost of treating alcohol use disorder. This includes the cost of alcohol detox in California.
Begin alcohol detox in Southern California today
If you are looking for alcohol detox in Los Angeles, Burbank, or anywhere in Southern California, Monarch Treatment Center is here for you. We invite you to call or contact us to start the insurance verification and intake process.
With our effective programs and thoughtful amenities, we can support you on the road to recovery.