Alcohol Withdrawal Detoxification in San Diego

The medical literature has filled the descriptions of alcoholism withdrawal, including delirium tremens (DTs). Decades later, alcohol withdrawal was labeled “brain fever” secondary to “frequent and excessive intoxication.” In that same year, the syndrome was called delirium tremens. A century later, abstinence syndrome (manifest by tremulousness and seizures) was observed in chronically alcohol-intoxicated individuals. Our understanding of these syndromes grew when Victor and Adams used a naturalistic setting to study 206 patients hospitalized for alcoholism. After their patients’ alcohol intake ceased upon hospitalization, 12% had seizures, 18% developed hallucinations, and 5% developed Delirium Tremens. All these symptoms were related to the cessation of alcohol consumption.

Over the years, various treatments have been tried for alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Fortunately, modern attention to alcohol withdrawal has led to more significant outcomes and minimal discomfort during detoxification. The days of lumbar punctures, hydrotherapy, and the dreadful electroconvulsive shock therapy, insulin coma therapy, and other outdated and ineffective treatments of alcohol withdrawal are long gone. At La Jolla Recovery, we take pride in using the most efficient evidence-based rehabilitation therapies for alcoholism.

Medication-assisted treatment is recommended for clients and will be closely monitored clinically. Newer medications like suboxone, Sublocade, and Vivitrol have shown promising results in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. By combining medication-assisted treatment with adequate nutrition and active attention to the central nervous system (CNS), withdrawal symptoms can be minimized, leading to more favorable outcomes. A supportive environment is crucial as clients progress through the phases of alcoholism rehab. Family involvement is also essential, and we encourage you to be actively involved in your loved one’s recovery journey.

At some point, 20% of men and 10% of women in most Western countries will develop an alcohol-use disorder. This disorder is characterized by repetitive alcohol-related problems in at least two of a dozen areas of life. These conditions can significantly reduce life expectancy by a decade and are associated with severe impairments in social functioning and numerous medical issues. Approximately 50% of individuals with alcohol-use disorders experience symptoms of alcohol withdrawal when they reduce or stop consuming alcohol. In 3 to 5% of these individuals, convulsions or severe confusion (delirium), or both, may develop. Although alcohol-related conditions affect people from all social backgrounds and impact over 20% of patients in most medical settings, a significant number of physicians lack adequate training in identifying and treating these severe problems.

Withdrawal symptoms associated with depressants like alcohol include insomnia, anxiety, increased pulse and respiration rates, body temperature, blood pressure, and hand tremors. Due to the rapid action of ethanol (beverage alcohol), withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 8 hours after blood alcohol levels decrease, peak around 72 hours, and significantly diminish by days 5 through 7 of abstinence. At La Jolla Recovery, alcohol detox centers closely monitor alcohol withdrawal and the severity of its symptoms to determine the most effective treatment options.

Alcohol withdrawal delirium (AWD), also known as delirium tremens, is the most severe form of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Its classic clinical presentation includes hyperpyrexia (high fever), tachycardia (fast heart rate), hypertension (high blood pressure), and diaphoresis (sweating). AWD occurs in about 5% of patients with alcohol dependence who participate in clinical trials for inpatient drug treatment for alcohol withdrawal. While clinical features of alcohol withdrawal syndrome can appear within hours of the last drink, delirium typically develops 2 to 3 days after the cessation of alcohol consumption. AWD usually lasts 48 to 72 hours, but there have been case reports of much longer durations. Initially, studies suggested a mortality rate of up to 15%, but advancements in treatment have significantly reduced this rate, with recent studies indicating mortality rates of 0% to 1%. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a dramatic increase in the number of alcohol abusers. We recognize the impact of stress and anxiety on alcohol consumption and its consequences on our lives.

At La Jolla Recovery, we prioritize addressing alcohol withdrawal symptoms during the detox phase of rehabilitation to enhance the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

Medication-assisted treatment may be used for the appropriate treatment of alcohol withdrawal delirium. Medications should not be used as a stand-alone treatment for alcohol withdrawal, hallucinations, or other symptoms, so a comprehensive detox approach is suggested. Medical and clinical attention to the proper alcohol withdrawal and detox will be provided to your unique needs.

Severe alcohol addiction and withdrawal symptoms like delirium tremens may add to the fear or anxiety of getting help or beginning the alcohol detox step. La Jolla Recovery combines cutting-edge Western techniques with Eastern modalities at our state-of-the-art addiction and detox center. Contact our experienced team of clinicians if any of these alarming signs of alcoholic intoxication feel familiar to you. Be aware that a loved one may have a dual diagnosis, mental health, and abuse substances such as heroin, prescription, or cocaine. Whether adhering to 12 steps or needing a non-spiritual approach, such as Practical Recovery, we want to provide the right program for your alcohol detox and withdrawal needs.

La Jolla, Pacific Beach, and Mission Bay beaches will wake you up with a breeze to support the positive transition toward health. After alcohol detox, you might continue recovery at one of our rehabs or outpatient centers. Are you wondering if you should choose inpatient or outpatient? We’re here to answer all your alcohol rehabilitation questions. If you abuse Klonopin, benzodiazepines, or heroin, we will attend to your alcohol withdrawal with the proper attention, including multiple substance addictions or opiate support.