Millions of Americans of all ages struggle with an unhealthy relationship with alcohol. Those with alcohol use disorder (AUD) often isolate themselves to avoid judgment, leading to loneliness and relationship issues. Many deny their drinking and its effects, while others see it as problematic but can’t envision life without it. Stigma and fear are common barriers to treatment.
At Recovery Ranch PA, we understand the complexities of AUD and the need for individualized treatment to address alcohol abuse and withdrawal symptoms. If you or a loved one are ready to stop drinking and have questions, we’re here to help. You might be wondering: How long does it take to detox from alcohol? Our alcohol detox center provides a safe, supportive environment where clients receive medical and clinical interventions and monitoring to stabilize, minimize withdrawal symptoms, and prevent potentially dangerous effects of alcohol withdrawal. Contact our compassionate team online or call 717.969.9126 to learn how long it takes to undergo the detox and treatment process for those struggling with AUD.
What You Should Expect from Alcohol Detox
Fear often holds us back from trying new things. People with alcohol use disorder rely on drinking to cope with daily life and struggle to imagine managing without it, even when they want to quit. Many have attempted to stop numerous times, but few succeed without support. Alcohol detox can be uncomfortable, leading most to resume drinking before fully detoxing to avoid discomfort.
At Recovery Ranch PA, we believe that knowing what to expect from alcohol detox can help reduce fear. While the process varies for everyone, here’s a general timeline for alcohol detox:
- Six to eight hours after the last drink – This is commonly known as a hangover. Symptoms may include headache, dehydration, sweating, increased heart rate, and anxiety.
- Twelve to forty-eight hours after the last drink – Hangover symptoms persist, along with increased blood pressure, abnormal breathing, confusion, and mild hypothermia. Severe addiction may lead to seizures.
- Seventy-two hours after the last drink – Moderate symptoms continue, with possible seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), hallucinations, and disorientation.
- One week to several months – Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) can cause sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, cravings, fatigue, and impaired memory or thinking.
Going through alcohol withdrawal is both physically and psychologically challenging. Professional support from an inpatient or outpatient detox center boosts the chances of a successful detox and helps prepare clients for treatment of the root causes of AUD.
What You Should Know About Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
It’s essential to recognize that alcohol use disorder exists on a spectrum from mild to severe and affects individuals in different ways. Key factors influencing withdrawal symptoms include:
- Age, body composition, and genetics
- Quantity of alcohol consumed
- Duration of drinking
- Mental health
- Physical health conditions
- Use of other drugs
- Detox history
Individuals who metabolize alcohol slowly, are heavy drinkers, have a long drinking history, have underlying health issues, abuse other drugs, or have a complicated detox history are likely to experience more severe withdrawal symptoms.
How Alcohol Detox Can Help You
Opting for alcohol detox can be a transformative decision, but it’s merely the first step on the journey to recovery. After detoxification, clients at Recovery Ranch PA engage in a thorough treatment program designed to address the underlying issues that contribute to alcohol use disorder. Here, you’ll collaborate with our skilled addiction and mental health professionals to identify the most effective treatment path for you. Our programs feature a variety of evidence-based and holistic therapies that have demonstrated effectiveness in healing the mind, body, and spirit, empowering clients to reclaim control of their lives.
Connect with Recovery Ranch PA to Start Alcohol Detox in Pennsylvania
If you or a loved one struggles with alcohol use disorder and are ready to seek the help you deserve, Recovery Ranch PA can help. Contact us online or call 717.969.9126 to begin your recovery journey today.
