When you stop using drugs or alcohol, your impulses and cravings to use do not immediately go away. They will linger and make you uncomfortable. Such a response happens because, when you are using these drugs and alcohol regularly, they have reshaped the physiological structures, thus causing a reward response from your brain when you do use. The “feel-good” sensation contributes to why you develop dependence. 

However, when these substances are no longer in your system, your brain chemicals might continue to crave the drug or drink of your choice, therefore causing you to experience withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms are how your body reacts and adapts to significant changes in your substance use habits. However, addiction can be gradual, and therefore, you might experience mild withdrawal symptoms before ever noticing. Further, you might wonder if, after experiencing withdrawal if the symptoms will ever end? Let’s explore withdrawal symptoms and the best way to treat your addiction. 

What Are Withdrawal Symptoms Like?

Once you stop using drugs and alcohol, your mind and body will likely experience adverse side effects depending on the severity of the addiction. Symptoms may range from slight unpleasantness, discomfort to agonizing pains. Depending on which substance you seek sobriety from, the withdrawal symptoms and health risks can be very different. Some can be severe and life-threatening, while others may just cause mild discomfort. 

The timelines of detoxing different substances may vary, too. For example, an opioid-related withdrawal syndrome may include: 

• Anxiety 
• Trouble sleeping 
• Nausea 
• Diarrhea 
• Hot flashes 
• Excessive sweating  
• Body aches

Detoxing from other drugs such as benzos or cocaine might bring about symptoms such as; 

• Seizures 
• Panic attacks 
• Vomiting 
• Short-term memory loss.
• Depression 
• Hallucinations
• Thoughts of self-harm

Seek Proper Treatment

It is essential to seek detox treatment at a medical facility that can treat your addiction appropriately. Proper treatment includes proper screening and 24/7 medical supervision. You should consult with health professionals and make a detailed plan before entering treatment. Such a plan should examine what you use, how much you use, and your health history.

How Long Does Withdrawal Last?

The time frame for attaining sobriety through detox treatment depends on what kind of substances you use. It also depends on the consistency and amount of substances you use. Your detox treatment center may give you an estimated timeline based on a range of parameters. Therefore treatment may last anywhere from 30-90 days.  

Also, depending on personal physiological differences, resolving these symptoms might take additional time to overcome. If you have experienced failed self-detox and relapses before, it is likely time that you seek necessary treatment, which includes being under the guidance and monitoring of health professionals.

Should I Just Let My Body Resolve These Symptoms?

Whether you are experiencing mild or severe withdrawal, withdrawal symptoms need to be carefully monitored by health care professionals at your treatment center. Sometimes these symptoms worsen and therefore require medical care. It is essential to bear in mind that unmanaged withdrawal can be dangerous, so there should be interventions to keep you safe during this period of treatment. 

Additionally, when you experience these symptoms, it is harder to be fully functional and take care of yourself. A medical treatment facility will take care of you, including providing meals and other daily activities to keep you motivated and focused on getting better. Monitoring is also critical so that you do not succumb to cravings. Remember, self-care begins with the humility to allow others to care for you.

What Should I Do When Having Withdrawal Symptoms During Treatment?

It is important that during detox treatment you maintain a healthy nutrition. A good nutrition plan will keep your body healthy and functioning properly. Healthy nutrition begins with hydration. In addition to water, you can also drink electrolyte-packed beverages – especially if your symptoms include heavy sweating, diarrhea, and vomiting. 

Eating fruits and vegetables and lean meats also helps to replenish your body. Dark green and leafy vegetables provide vitamin B6, folic acid, and other nutrients that boost your mental health and immune system. Lean meats such as fish provide proteins, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates also necessary to helping your body recover and gain energy. Good nutrition will also help regulate your digestive system.

Do I need to Exercise? 

Apart from a healthy and balanced nutrition, you also need to implement an exercise routine into your daily or weekly regimen. Exercise does not need to be strenuous.  Jogging, walking, or yoga all help improve your physical and mental wellbeing. Also, just being outdoors can improve your physical and mental health.It is important to follow a regular routine of meals and exercise because your body’s biological clock is also being adjusted back to normal. 

Stay Persistent and Balanced

A well balanced routine consisting of healthy eating, exercise and self-care will all help you overcome periods of impulse and cravings. If persistent, over time, you can reduce your withdrawal symptoms to cravings and impulses and with further actions, manage and overcome such triggers. Persistence will continue to help you grow stronger in your recovery.   

At Laguna Shores Recovery, we work to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use disorders. Therefore, if you or a loved one are currently in need of help, then the time to act is today. Our medical and mental health professionals can help diagnose your conditions and design specific and targeted treatment plans to meet your needs. At our full medical and pet-friendly facility, we also provide refined detox treatment programs tailored to meet your needs. We also help you maintain a daily regimen including meals, lodging and activities following detox treatment. Additionally, our staff strives to create a safe and comfortable environment for you to thrive. We are here to help guide you through detox treatment – including periods of withdrawal to attain a strong foundation for lasting recovery. Remember, your journey to recovery begins when you act to get help. To find out more, call us at 954-688-5806.