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What Is Medical Detox and How Is It Different Than Rehab?

“Medical detox” is a term commonly used to describe medical detoxification for drugs or alcohol. During the detox process, the body sheds its chemical dependency, which can lead to a variety of challenging (and potentially dangerous) symptoms.

Compared to going “cold turkey” or doing another, non-medical form of detoxification, medical detox is completed under the direct supervision of doctors and other qualified medical treatment professionals. Using evidence-based therapies such as prescription medications, medical detoxification makes this challenging process both easier and safer.

It’s important to understand that medical detoxification does not take the place of rehab, however. Instead, it’s a critical component of the overall recovery process.

Why Medical Alcohol Detox Is Important

Medical detoxification from alcohol is critical for most people undergoing alcoholism treatment. Residual levels of alcohol remain in the body around the clock. When you stop drinking, you can experience withdrawals as a result.

Some of the most common symptoms of withdrawal include feeling shaky or jittery. You could experience paranoia or other mental or emotional manifestations such as depression or anxiety. The degree of severity depends on several factors including the individual’s health, how long they have abused alcohol and to what degree.

In some cases, however, alcohol withdrawal can be serious or even life-threatening. Delirium tremens, commonly knowns as the DTs, involves both sudden and severe changes in the brain and nervous system. This can cause dangerous changes in heart rate as well as seizures. Alcohol withdrawals can also lead to a condition known as hallucinosis, which causes schizophrenia-like hallucinations.

Why Medical Drug Detox Is Important

Drug withdrawal symptoms vary based on the type of drug in question, potentially ranging from mild to severe or potentially fatal. Symptoms can include shaking, sweating, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, hallucinations and more.

During the medical drug detox process, the body is cleared of the substance in question and treatments are given to relieve withdrawal symptoms until the process is complete. At that time, the recover process can begin.

How to Find a Medical Detox Addiction Recovery Center in Pocatello ID

Many drug and alcohol rehab programs do not include medically supervised detoxification as a part of their overall treatment approach. Without this critical level of supervision and support, however, many people who suffer from addiction fail in their recovery efforts.

The good news is that you don’t have to face this challenge alone if you choose an addiction recovery center that provides medical detoxification services.

In Pocatello, Idaho, the team of compassionate professionals at Moonlight Mountain Recovery understands the critical nature of this first phase of treatment. Getting clean and staying sober requires commitment and work. However, when you trust us to assist you, we provide all the tools you need for success. Our holistic approach and proven therapies – combined with truly individualized treatment plans – help you achieve the success you’ve been hoping for.

We offer both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for alcohol and drug dependency, including opioids and prescription medications. Contact us today to learn more about our medical detox programs in Pocatello and Boise ID.Call Now 208-505-9990

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