At California Addiction Treatment, we recognize the unique challenges that individuals face when seeking help for alcohol dependence. Our alcohol detox program in Huntington Beach, CA, is designed to provide comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced staff is dedicated to helping you overcome addiction and regain control of your life.
What is
Alcohol Dependence?
Alcohol dependence is a complex condition characterized by a strong craving for alcohol, a loss of control over its consumption, and the development of physical dependence. This often results in increased tolerance to alcohol, meaning an individual needs to consume more to achieve the desired effects. Over time, alcohol dependence can have significant physical, psychological, and social consequences, making it crucial to seek help as soon as possible. According to California Department of Health, there was an average of 19,335 people who died per year from 2020-2021 due to excessive alcohol use in California. Our Huntington Beach medical detox program can assist those struggling with alcohol misuse.
What are
Common Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can vary in severity and duration, depending on factors such as the duration and intensity of alcohol use, individual genetics, and overall health. Common alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:
- Anxiety or irritability
- Insomnia or sleep disturbances
- Tremors or shaking
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid heart rate
- Sweating
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
In some cases, individuals may experience a severe form of alcohol withdrawal called delirium tremens (DTs), which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
How Can You Manage
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?
Managing alcohol withdrawal symptoms effectively requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. At California Addiction Treatment, our alcohol detox program incorporates:
Our experienced medical team monitors your progress and ensures your safety throughout the detox process. This is a 24/7 process to make sure you’re comfortable and have everything necessary.
We utilize appropriate medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, manage cravings, and address co-occurring mental health issues. Since we constantly monitor this process, your medication protocol may change throughout detox to meet your needs.
Our compassionate staff provides emotional support, counseling, and therapy to help you navigate the challenges of early recovery. This is important to make sure that you’re navigating your next steps in treatment with the best intentions and doing what’s best for your long-term sobriety.
What are
Common Medications Used in Alcohol Detox?
Several medications may be used during alcohol detox to manage withdrawal symptoms and support recovery. Some common medications include:
These sedative medications can help manage anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances during withdrawal. Benzos are typically used in someone who is suffering from alcohol withdrawal syndrome or delirium tremens. Benzos are typically used for a short period of time and then the individual is gradually tapered off.
Anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine or gabapentin, may be used in alcohol detox to manage withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, hallucinations, or tremors. These medications work by stabilizing the electrical activity in the brain and nervous system to reduce the risk of seizures. Anticonvulsants may also be used to manage chronic pain and mood disorders which can co-occur with alcohol addiction.
Antipsychotics, such as haloperidol or chlorpromazine, may be used in alcohol detox to manage withdrawal symptoms such as hallucinations, anxiety, and agitation. These medications work by calming the nervous system and relieving agitation associated with alcohol withdrawal. Antipsychotics may also be used to manage co-occurring mental health disorders which can arise during detox from alcohol.
Beta-blockers such as propranolol or clonidine are used during alcohol detox to manage symptoms such as high blood pressure, tremors, and rapid heart rate. These medications work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which can intensify these symptoms during withdrawal. Beta-blockers can also be effective in managing anxiety associated with alcohol withdrawal, thereby providing the patient with a greater sense of calm and stability.
Naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram are FDA-approved medications that can help reduce alcohol cravings and support long-term recovery.
Can You Detox From Alcohol at Home?
While it may be tempting to try detoxing from alcohol at home, it is not recommended due to the potential risks associated with alcohol withdrawal. Without proper medical supervision, withdrawal symptoms can become severe and even life-threatening. At California Addiction Treatment, we provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to detox from alcohol under the watchful eye of our experienced medical team.
What Are
the Next Steps After Alcohol Detox?
Alcohol detox is just the first step on the road to recovery. After completing detox, it is essential to continue with a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the underlying causes of addiction and provides the necessary tools for lasting recovery.
California Addiction Treatment offers a range of evidence-based addiction treatment programs, including:
A residential treatment program provides a structured, supportive environment for individuals to focus on their recovery. Inpatient care includes 24-hour medical monitoring and professional therapy to aid in the recovery process.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a comprehensive approach to treating addiction, particularly to opioids such as heroin and prescription painkillers. It involves the use of medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies to address substance use disorders.
MAT works by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it easier for individuals to abstain from drug use and focus on recovery. The medications used in MAT typically include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These medications help to stabilize brain chemistry, alleviate withdrawal symptoms, and block the euphoric effects of opioids.
Therapy for addiction, also known as counseling or behavioral therapy, is a fundamental component of addiction treatment. It involves working with a trained therapist or counselor to address the psychological, emotional, and behavioral aspects of addiction.
California Addiction Treatment offers a variety of therapeutic approaches, including individual therapy, group counseling, trauma-informed therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Learn More About Our
Alcohol Detox Program in Huntington Beach, CA!
Are you or someone you love struggling with alcohol addiction? California Addiction Treatment provides personalized and expert care for those seeking to detox from alcohol. Our highly trained professionals provide compassionate, individualized care plans to help each person on their journey to recovery.We will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you have the tools and support necessary for long-term success in sobriety. Contact us today and take your first step towards a healthier tomorrow – one free of alcohol dependence!
Dr. Deena Manion LCSW #20628, a Doctor of Psychology and Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1993, is the Co-Founder of California Addiction Treatment Center. She brings extensive experience in addiction and mental health from her previous roles at prominent recovery centers and her private practice in Los Angeles and Agoura Hills, CA. Dr. Deena has also appeared as an expert on Dr. Phil’s show and podcast, as well as various other TV programs and documentaries, sharing her expertise in mental health and addiction. Her goal is to leverage her clinical skills in the entertainment industry to reach a wider audience, making her a valuable asset in the field.
