What Are the Stages of Detox?

Detox programs are a crucial resource for anyone affected by drug or alcohol addiction. These programs specialize in helping you cope with the symptoms of substance withdrawal. They also make the withdrawal process much safer and may even save your life.

There are three main stages of detox and substance withdrawal. Each of these stages produces its own characteristic symptoms. Knowing about them in advance will help you prepare for them.

At Arkview Recovery Center, we proudly offer state-of-the-art detox programs and comprehensive substance abuse treatment programs to promote lasting recovery. In each case, we tailor our treatments to your specific stage of withdrawal. We also pay close attention to personal factors that may affect your experience.

What Are the Stages of Detox?

Detox Stage One: The Onset of Withdrawal

This first stage is when withdrawal begins as substantial amounts of drugs or alcohol leave your system. Your first symptoms may appear within just a few hours of your last drink or drug dose. However, you may not notice any changes for up to a day or even longer.

Alcohol produces its own particular detox symptoms in this stage. These symptoms may include symptoms such as:

• Sleeplessness
• Headaches
• Feelings of anxiety
• Mild hand tremors
• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Each major class of drugs also produces its own symptoms during this first stage. For example, if you are withdrawing from an opioid substance, your early symptoms may include:

• Achy muscles
• A runny nose
• An agitated or anxious mental state
• Uncontrolled yawning
• Sleeplessness

You may also experience an unusually high output of sweat, mucus, and tears.

Detox Stage Two: Worsening Symptoms and New Issues

In the second stage, it’s common for your symptoms to continue and grow more intense. As a result, you may begin to feel a much higher level of discomfort. The arrival of new symptoms often accompanies that feeling. For example, you may begin to feel strong cravings for more drugs or alcohol. Other additional symptoms will depend on the type of substance affecting your system.

Detox Stage Three: Symptoms Reach Their Worst and Start to Fade

When you enter the final stage, you will feel the worst drug detox or alcohol detox effects. At this stage, you may experience profound discomfort or distress. In rare circumstances, you may also develop severe withdrawal complications.

If complications don’t occur during the detox process, your symptoms will gradually begin to taper off. The timeline for the easing of symptoms varies from person to person. It also varies according to the specific type of substance that triggered your withdrawal.

Variations in the Stages of Detox

The stages of detox are not always the same for everyone, even among people addicted to the same substance. Why is this the case? Two major factors affect the timing and intensity of withdrawal. First is the amount of time you have been abusing drugs or alcohol. Your typical level of substance use also has a big impact. People with longer and heavier patterns of abuse tend to experience more severe withdrawal symptoms.

Detox Complications

A small percentage of people experience significant complications during the detox process. Problems are most likely if you are heavily addicted to sedative medications or alcohol. Without treatment, some withdrawal complications may be severe enough to put your life at risk that is why it is imperative to go to an experienced Pennsylvania detox center to ensure you detox in a more safe comfortable atmosphere.

Let Arkview Recovery Guide You Through the Stages of Detox

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during the stages of detox? Just ask the experts at Arkview Recovery. We will help you get answers that apply to your specific situation. Arkview Recovery is also a top regional source for safe, effective detox programs. Whether you are withdrawing from drugs or alcohol, we will support you with customized, professional care. Call us today at 717.744.0756 or take advantage of our online form.