Drug-fueled emergency room visits in the Detroit metropolitan area rose to more than 12,000 in 2005 – solely counting cases of heroin, stimulant and marijuana usage. In fact, the reality of physical danger from drug use is experienced throughout the country – particularly as tolerance and withdrawal set in and dosage escalates to dangerous or fatal levels. For those who seek treatment early, the Detroit drug rehab detoxification process can help allow the physical effects of drug cessation to be treated, allowing the patient’s body to return to its natural, drug-free state safely. Through professional supervision and treatment of withdrawal symptoms, relapse can be prevented during this pivotal stage of drug addiction recovery.

Withdrawal Signs of Drug Addiction

When addicted individuals abruptly stop drug use, withdrawal symptoms occur. Withdrawal itself generally lasts a matter of days or weeks, though long-term effects of drug addiction can take months to resolve. Some users experience digestive issues, lack of coordination, nausea, sweating, uncontrolled mood fluctuations, muscle spasms, a “hangover” feeling or shaking. In some cases, physical withdrawal symptoms can cause serious, even life-threatening medical problems, including seizures and irregular, rapid heart rates that tax the heart.

The change in levels of neurotransmitters that occurs during drug addiction can also induce feelings of irritability, aggression, anxiety, sleep disturbances and nightmares. Many users also experience ravenous hunger as their appetites return for the first time in ages or experience the urge to oversleep as exhaustion sets in. Some individuals become paranoid during the detox process itself, experiencing distorted perceptions of reality, including hallucinations or even full psychotic breaks. Severe depression and suicidal thoughts are also common.

Dangers of Detoxing from Drugs Alone in Detroit

Medical supervision and psychological counseling available in professional detox become necessary for the safety and well-being of individuals detoxing from drugs. By the time drug users enter detox, they can be malnourished and severely sleep deprived — leading to increased vulnerability to depression, mood fluctuations and even suicidal thoughts. Additionally, many drug-addicted individuals experience high body temperatures and dehydration when entering drug detox — particularly after a binge. The toll that prolonged drug abuse can take on the organs over time can also lead to complications during the detox process, particularly when performed in an unsupervised setting.

Detoxification Treatment for Drug Withdrawal

Treatment for drug withdrawal should begin with diagnostic tests and a thorough medical exam before the detox process begins so that any complicating drugs or preexisting medical conditions can be considered in treatment. Cardiovascular and immune tests are often performed as well, due to the negative effects drugs can have on immunity and heart health. Sleep medication can be prescribed to help regular sleep, and oral or intravenous hydration may also be necessary to combat dehydration that occurs in some cases of detoxification. Mental disturbances can be treated with both conservatively prescribed medication (such as anti-anxiety, antidepressant or anti-psychotic drugs), though in most cases, therapeutic counseling suffices.

Finding Drug Detox for Detroit Residents

If you or a loved one in Detroit are suffering from an addiction and searching for addiction help, we’re here to help. Our toll-free phone lines are open 24 hours a day, with addiction professionals standing by to help you locate the drug rehab program and detoxification services best suited to your addiction and personal needs. Give us a call today and let us help you find your way on the path to recovery from drug addiction.