Drug Detoxification Process
The drug detoxification process will be different for everyone.
Every addiction, every person and every drug detox process is different. Depending on the type of drug that an addict is addicted to and the length of time they have been addicted as well as various other factors, the drug detoxification process could take many different forms. Recovery from addiction can be a long, difficult and bumpy road but the end result is one of freedom and happiness. The drug detox process is the very first step to any drug treatment program.
Physical Aspects of the Drug Detox Process
When an addict stops using drugs they are susceptible to a range of physical withdrawal symptoms that can be very uncomfortable and may even be dangerous if left untreated. The liver and kidneys suffer from drug abuse and the subsequent withdrawal process that accompanies drug detox. During the drug detox process, the addict may experience jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes. Physically the body is tired and the addict may feel fatigue or exhaustion.
Many addicts suffer from the following withdrawal symptoms as a result of the drug detox process:
- Headaches
- Body Aches and pains
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Digestive problems
- Discomforts
- Anxiety
- Chills
- Fever
- Sweats
Most of the time, the drug detox process runs relatively smoothly and does not require any major medical intervention but in some cases, depending on the medical state of the individual as well as the type of drug they are detoxing from, dangers can occur. The most dangerous symptoms of the drug detox process include:
- Fever
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Suicidal thoughts
- Heart attack
- Convulsions
- Seizures
The Social Aspects of the Drug Detox Process
In the beginning of the drug detox process most addicts feel uncomfortable and want to be left alone. As time progresses and the individual is able to heal and recover from the withdrawal symptoms, the addict may be ready to make some social changes. Initial social changes may include seeking counseling and therapy that will help you to adjust to post addiction relationships with your friends, family members and others in the community. Your attitude will improve as time goes on and you are able to grasp a new feeling for life without drugs and drug addiction.
Factors Contributing to Changes in the Drug Detox Process
The drug detox process is different for everyone. Some of the factors that may contribute to significant changes in the drug detox process include:
- The type of drug an individual is addicted to
- How long you have been addicted to the drug and whether or not other drugs are also being used
- How often a drug is used and the amount of the dose that is typically used
- The physical health and capacity of the addict
- The emotional state of the user (ie, is the user happy to be quitting, are they apprehensive, don’t want to, etc)
The drug detox process may be as short as a few days or it may span weeks or even months. In the majority of cases, drug detox takes about 10 days but this number can change significantly based on the factors above. Keep in mind that the drug detox process is particularly to treat the physical dependence on drugs and offers very little help for psychological aspects of addiction. Behavioral or social problems that may affect addiction must be further treated with the help of a long term addiction treatment program.