Many alcoholics fear trying to quit because of the pain and anguish they will go though during the process of quitting. Detoxification is the first step in overcoming the addiction to alcohol and the withdrawal symptoms can be quite difficult to get through. The alcoholic will experience symptoms such as diarrhea, chills, depression, sweating, insomnia, and irritability. These symptoms can last over several days and are very hard for the alcoholic to deal with.
What Goes on in an Alcohol Rehab Center
In an alcohol rehab center, there is usually a doctor on staff who is able to oversee the person while he is experiencing the withdrawal symptoms. Some facilities offer drugs to help patients get through the withdrawal phase, whereas others have decided that detoxing without drugs is the best choice. In both types of facilities, it is important for the addict to know there is very capable staff there to help him through the process and keep him as comfortable as possible.
After the initial withdrawal, the addict may discover other medical conditions that have been brought on by the addiction but once these are dealt with, he can then begin to start learning how to live without alcohol in his life. Usually, one of the main medical conditions seen is undernourishment.
Nutrition is an important factor in the recovery process; it allows the body to function properly by removing toxins that have built up. Proper nutrition gives the body energy and keeps it strong. When alcoholics are in the throes of their addiction, it is not uncommon to see them go for days without eating or taking care of themselves.
When a person has been addicted to alcohol for extended periods of time, there is an increased risk for several types of cancer including the pancreas, liver, mouth, rectum, and esophagus. The worst condition and most commonly seen in alcoholics is an enlarged liver that is no longer able to function properly. This is known as cirrhosis of the liver. There are kidney problems and other liver problems that may also arise such as hepatitis. When an alcoholic is checked in to an alcohol rehab center, he will have a thorough exam to predetermine any of these conditions.
Once the addict has gone through his detox and all of the medical issues are being taken care of, he can now focus on the psychological part of the addiction. He will learn what led him to the addiction and he will learn how to cope with life’s problems and stresses that caused him to drink in the first place.
Once the addict has all of the tools he needs to succeed, he will be able to leave the alcohol rehab center and begin his new life. He will be better able to cope with the problems that life has dealt him in a constructive manner and remain alcohol-free for good.
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