Alcohol and Drug Withdrawal in Minneapolis, MN

For many people, the host of symptoms associated with alcohol and drug withdrawal constitute the most intimidating part of undergoing treatment for addiction. Fortunately, with the right combination of knowledge and care, the severity of symptoms can be mitigated and the experience can be made more safe, more comfortable, and more effective. Although it can be difficult and uncomfortable, alcohol and drug withdrawal serves as an important mark of progress on the road to recovery. Without escaping the influence of addictive substances, further treatment for addiction would be ineffective, and in many instances, impossible.

Alcohol and Drug Withdrawal Symptoms

There is a wide range of symptoms known to accompany withdrawal. Here is a list of the most common symptoms, and the type of addictive substance they are typically associated with.

. Alcohol: anxiety, tremors, seizures, hallucinations, changes in blood pressure and heart rate, psychosis
. Opioids: anxiety, hypertension, nausea, vomiting, insomnia
. Barbiturates: rapid breathing, hallucinations, insomnia, seizures, delusions, muscle aches, tremors, nausea, vomiting
. Stimulants: lethargy, depression, confusion
. Benzodiazepines: delusions, hallucinations, insomnia, anxiety, light sensitivity, numbness, tingling

In some cases, these symptoms are few and mild. In other cases, they are serious, debilitating, and even life-threatening. The factors that determine the presentation and severity of symptoms range from the addictive substance in question to the medical and personal background of the individual in treatment. As a rule, alcohol and drug withdrawal symptoms are unpredictable. As a result, it is always recommended that individuals pursue detox in a medical setting staffed with doctors and other highly trained health professionals. These people are knowledgeable regarding the symptoms and treatments of alcohol and drug withdrawal, and are capable of taking measures to ensure the safety of individuals in undergoing detox.

Detox in this type of environment is formally known as medical detox, and in addition to being the safest way to escape drug dependence, it is more effective than trying to detox without professional help. In support of this idea are the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, who advise that good intentions and willpower alone are rarely enough to overcome the power of addiction. What frequently happens is that individuals attempting to detox on their own relapse very quickly, reverting to addictive behaviors in order to escape the painful and disorienting symptoms of withdrawal.

Rehab Can Help

A quality rehabilitation facility can serve as an access point for a holistic approach to treating drug and alcohol addiction. In rehab, medical detox can address the physical dependence associated with addiction, and a wide range of intensive therapies can address the emotional and psychological aspects of the condition. At Minneapolis Drug Rehab Centers, we are proud to be able to offer connections to this type of holistic treatment program. If you are interested in learning more about our services, or have questions about drug and alcohol withdrawal, please feel free to contact us at (612) 605-2271 today.