One of the greatest hurdles to stopping drug use is the withdrawal symptoms. Drug addiction creates physical, emotional and psychological dependence. Withdrawal symptoms are the body's way of reacting to the change in its chemistry.
The way the body reacts is based on several variables, such as the health, mental state and physical strength of the individual. These, coupled with the type of substance abused, duration of use and dosage, all come into play when quitting drugs. Withdrawal symptoms can range from moderate to intense. The cravings and physical effects of withdrawal can feel unbearable, and can sometimes be life threatening. Medical supervision is always recommended to alleviate the discomfort and health complications that some addicts may experience during this stage.
Drug withdrawal creates a compilation of effects. When certain drugs are taken, they give the user a temporary surge of pleasure and euphoria, followed by a crash. In order to achieve the same effect, many will increase the dosage, making their bodies more dependent, and the cycle begins again. These constant surges of energy and intense crashes can leave individuals feeling extremely fatigued. In the first few weeks of withdrawal, addicts will typically feel more sleepy, tired and lethargic.
Psychotic symptoms may present themselves when individuals are detoxing from certain drugs like meth or alcohol, for example. These typically consist of visual, auditory or tactile hallucinations. These episodes can be very scary, and withdrawing alone can cause serious health complications. This is why medical supervision in an inpatient setting is recommended throughout detox.
This is a common withdrawal symptom from most chemical substances. Depression can be triggered when the drug use has been extensive, and the addict has difficulty dealing with the disruption in dopamine levels.
Other withdrawal symptoms from alcohol, prescription medications and other illicit drugs may include fever, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and paranoia.
Trying to detox or stop drug use on your own can be a dangerous and painful endeavor. Although addiction experts can make a general assumption, no one can precisely predict which withdrawal symptoms the individual will experience. There is no way to tell exactly how the body will react or how long the symptoms will last. Careful supervision in a medically-equipped facility is the safest way to detox from drug use.
Some detoxification treatment protocols require a gradual reduction in the dosage to allow the body to adjust at a more comfortable pace. Medication can also be administered to alleviate the pain and discomfort of the withdrawal symptoms, as well as minimize any health risks. At Bayonne drug rehab centers this service is provided by experienced clinicians. For long term drug addiction, a combination of techniques might also be used.
Whether you are addicted to meth, cocaine, alcohol or prescription drugs, going through the withdrawal process can be agonizing. Getting help to stop drug use is always the best and safest route to begin recovering from drug addiction. Call Bayonne Drug Rehab at (877) 804-1531 for more information about available detoxification programs that can help you cope with withdrawal symptoms from drugs and alcohol.