Drug Withdrawal Treatment in Allen, TX
When a person is addicted to drugs and/or alcohol, they are more than mentally addicted to the way that a certain drug makes them feel. They are also physically addicted to the drug. Chronic drug use causes changes in the person's brain and body to where if a person isn't exposed to the drug in a certain time frame, they will start to experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can range from mildly bothersome to severe and potentially life-threatening. Because it is unpredictable as to the severity of a person's symptoms, they can benefit from seeking drug withdrawal treatment in Allen. Through this service, they can receive medical support to reduce the symptoms associated with drug withdrawal as much as possible.
Is Drug Withdrawal Dangerous?
Drug withdrawal can be dangerous on both a physical and mental level. A person may experience severe physical symptoms associated with drug detox in Allen that could prove life-threatening. For example, withdrawals from alcohol can cause a set of symptoms known as the delirium tremens or DTs. These symptoms can include hallucinations, rapid heart rate, and seizures. If a person does not receive treatment for DTs, the condition could prove fatal.
Alcohol is not the only dangerous drug associated with withdrawals. If a person abuses multiple substances, withdrawal can cause unpredictable physical symptoms that could also be life-threatening. For this reason, it is best to seek drug withdrawal treatment in Allen where a person can receive around-the-clock care should a concerning symptom or symptoms arise.
In addition to physical symptoms, there are also mental health symptoms associated with drug withdrawals that can be troublesome. For example, withdrawals from methamphetamines can cause a person to sink into a deep depression. As a result, they may have thoughts of self-harm. Until a person has navigated the major symptoms associated with this type of drug withdrawal, it is best to have the support of a drug withdrawal treatment center.
Drug Withdrawal Symptoms
Abuse of each drug can result in unique withdrawal symptoms. Taking a combination of drugs can result in a combination of these symptoms in some instances. Examples of withdrawal symptoms associated with different drugs are outlined below.
Withdrawals from Opiates (Heroin, Morphine, Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, and Other Painkillers)
Opiates work on opioid pain receptors in the body. The also slow down the body's processes, especially breathing. When a person withdraws from taking opiates, they may experience symptoms that include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Pain
- Frequent movements in the extremities
A person will also experience strong cravings for opiates that may be difficult to resist a relapse if not in a drug withdrawal treatment center. However, there are treatments available to reduce symptoms as well as cut down on cravings.
For example, the medications methadone or buprenorphine (Subutex) can all be taken to relieve pain and reduce cravings without creating the euphoric high associated with taking opiates.
Withdrawals from Methamphetamines (Crystal Meth, Crystal, or Ice)
Crystal meth affects dopamine receptors in the body. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Unlike opiate receptors, dopamine receptors speed up actions in the body, such as heart rate and alertness. When a person experiences withdrawals from methamphetamines, some of the symptoms they may have include:
- Sleeping for long time periods
- Intense feelings of depression or sadness
- Cravings for food
- Intense feeling of sadness or anhedonia, which is the inability to feel pleasure
While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not yet approved medications expressly for the treatment of meth addiction and withdrawals, there are treatment programs in Allen that can help a person feel better when they are going through meth withdrawals.
Why Should I Go Through Drug Withdrawal at a Treatment Center?
Drug withdrawal treatment in Allen is a significantly safer way for a person to go through drug withdrawals and begin the process of living a life free from drug abuse. While many people commonly believe they can go through withdrawals all on their own, this is a misconception.
The unanticipated physical symptoms and emotions that occur through the withdrawal process can be life-threatening and result in relapse. Having a professional medical staff who is well-versed in drug and alcohol withdrawal treatment can make a significant difference in a person's outcomes from drug withdrawal.
As an added bonus, a person also has access to a facility that has many resources to help a person on the next steps of their sobriety journey, such as finding a counselor or identifying a 12-step support group. Call now for help (877) 804-1531.