30 Aug How Long Does It Take To Detox From Alcohol At Home?

If you are looking to begin your journey to sobriety from any kind of drug, one of the obstacles you need to prepare for is dealing with withdrawal symptoms. How long does it take to detox from alcohol at home? Is it safe to do so? Keep reading to learn more.

Self-detoxing at home

Many people may prefer to detox themselves at home instead of seeking help. There are a number of reasons for this, such as:

• Not wanting to deal with the social implications of involving others, like judgment or nagging resulting from stigmas of addiction
• Worrying about the expense of medical intervention
• Not wanting to be forced to leave home to stay in a clinic

It’s understandable to have these feelings, but it’s important to know that it is never safe to detox entirely alone and without help. While it may arguably be safe for people who only binge drink on weekends, those who have a moderate to severe drinking habit should avoid self-detox as it may have fatal results.

Methods of self-detox

Cold turkey

When most people envision detox, they usually think of the “cold turkey” method, which means you stop drinking suddenly and entirely. People choose this method because it is an overall quicker path to recovery.

However, this also means that your body’s reaction will be more severe and take a much bigger physical toll on your body. Alcohol changes your brain chemistry; withdrawal symptoms are the effects of your body adjusting its chemistry to function without alcohol.

Tapering method

The other method someone can use to self-detox from alcohol at home is the tapering method. This involves gradually reducing the amount you drink over time before cutting off entirely. There are guides online with examples of schedules you can follow to safely reduce the amount you drink based on how much you regularly consume up to that point.

While this method may be arguably safer, it’s also much more difficult to follow without help. As withdrawal symptoms set in, it will be even more difficult than usual to resist the urge to consume more alcohol than your schedule allows.

Delirium tremens – the most dangerous withdrawal symptoms

If you decide to attempt self-detox, it’s incredibly important to designate people to check in on you regularly to ensure your safety. Delirium tremens, aka DTs, are extremely dangerous withdrawal symptoms that can lead to death if not treated immediately.

Although those who drink heavily are at higher risk of delirium tremens, having other medical conditions or using other substances with alcohol are also risk factors. If you have any of the following symptoms while attempting detox, you should seek out emergency medical services right away:

• Extreme agitation, irritability, anxiety, excitement, fear, or mood swings
• Chest pain, fatigue, fever, increased heart or breathing rate, or stomach pain
• Excessive sweating, eye and muscle movement difficulties, or involuntary muscle contractions
• Delirium, delusions, hallucinations, or sensitivity to light, sound, or touch;
• Increased startle reflex, seizures, nightmares

How long does it take to detox from alcohol at home?

The length of time it takes to detox from alcohol can vary based on a number of factors, from your overall health to how heavily and often you drink. If you stop cold turkey, symptoms typically appear in waves.

• The first wave of symptoms typically appear around 6-8 hours after the last drink.
• They will worsen through the 24-hour mark; this period is when seizures are most likely to occur.
• Another wave of symptoms may hit and last 24-48 hours after the last drink.
• The final wave of symptoms may occur 2-4 days after the last drink, which is when DTs may develop, and last 4-6 days after the last drink.

It’s important to note that some more minor symptoms may last much longer.

The benefits of medically managed detox

Studies indicate the success rate for alcohol self-detox is only 45%. Managing an alcohol addiction goes far beyond the initial detox, however. Compared to those who do not seek professional help, individuals who seek help are less likely to relapse, making medical management an essential part of maintaining long-term sobriety.

The fact is having a healthcare expert specializing in addiction guiding the alcohol detox process will ensure you remain safe, reduce and relieve symptoms to the extent possible, and set you up for better long-term success.

When most people think of medically-managed detox and recovery, they often think of 30-day inpatient or outpatient programs. If you haven’t found these programs effective, consider getting medically managed detox from alcohol at home.

Related:

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• What Percentage Of College Sexual Assaults Involve Alcohol?
• Is Alcoholism A Disease, Addiction, Or Disorder?
• The Beginner’s Guide To Alcohol Detox
• Learn The Signs And Symptoms Of Alcohol Withdrawal
• In-Home Detox for Alcohol Addiction

Elite Home Detox Can Help You Detox From Alcohol At Home Safely

Elite Home Detox is a mobile addiction healthcare service, bringing the services of a traditional rehab clinic to you. A detox, recovery, and rehabilitation plan is custom built around your needs, ensuring that you feel empowered as you begin your path to sobriety.

During detox, one of our healthcare experts will remain onsite with you to keep you safe and comfortable as you detox from alcohol at home. Once detox is complete, recovery begins, and you can learn to deal with triggers in real time with expert support. Our dedicated care coordinators can help keep you organized throughout your journey.

Elite Home Detox is one of the most discreet ways to reclaim your sobriety and get back to being your best self. We’re ready to help – reach out today!