The severity of the withdrawal symptoms is the most frequent cause of relapse when trying to address substance abuse problems.
If you want to quit, but are afraid of going through withdrawal, Brian Carty, MD, MSPH, of Carty Addiction and Internal Medicine Clinic in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, can help.
Dr. Carty is a leading addiction specialist who provides effective withdrawal treatment using a highly successful medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program.
Call the clinic today to find out more, or book an appointment online.
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How Does Detox Work In Winston-Salem?
At Carty Addiction patients undergo a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program. MAT combines medications that reduce withdrawal symptoms with talking therapies to help you get through the withdrawal phase as smoothly as possible. Using MAT, you can manage your withdrawal as an outpatient, relieving you of the difficulties of going into a hospital or a detox unit.
The medications you take may vary according to the substance from which you’re withdrawing. For example, if you have an alcohol use disorder, you take naltrexone to reduce your alcohol cravings. If you have an opioid addiction, your medication is likely to be Suboxone®, which contains buprenorphine and naloxone. Suboxone works by reducing your opioid cravings and decreasing your dependency.
To learn more about the best ways to overcome withdrawal, call Carty Addiction and Internal Medicine Clinic today, or book an appointment online.
What Types Of Detox Does Carty Treat?
At Carty Addiciton and Internal Medicine we treat all types of withdrawal from alcohol and opiates to stimulants and tobacco.
However, most of our patients are suffering from either alcohol or opiate withdrawal as these are the substances that typically cause the most severe withdrawal symptoms.
In order to successfully quit using such a substance, getting help from a specialist service like Carty Addiction and Internal Medicine Clinic is essential. The effects of withdrawal are one of the main reasons why people who are trying to stop using drugs relapse, so support is key to success.
FAQ’s About Detox Treatment
When Do I Need A Detox Center?
You may need a detox center when you are struggling with substance abuse or addiction and require medical supervision and support to safely withdraw from the substance. Detox centers are recommended in the following situations
- If you are addicted to drugs or alcohol and experience severe withdrawal symptoms.
- When previous attempts to quit on your own have been unsuccessful.
- If you have a history of medical or mental health issues that could complicate the detox process.
- When you lack a supportive and safe environment at home for detox.
How Long Does Detox Last?
The duration of detox can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type and amount of the substance used, the individual’s overall health, and their history of substance abuse. In general, detox can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Some mild withdrawals may resolve within a few days, while severe withdrawals from substances like opioids or alcohol can last longer. It’s essential to seek professional guidance to determine the expected duration for your specific situation.
Is It Safe To Detox Without A Doctor?
Detoxing without medical supervision can be dangerous, especially for certain substances like alcohol and opioids, which can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. Attempting to detox on your own can result in complications, including seizures, dehydration, and life-threatening health issues. It is strongly recommended to detox under the care of a medical professional, especially if you have a history of addiction or underlying health conditions.
What is Withdrawal?
Withdrawal is a term for the symptoms you experience if you stop taking a substance to which you’ve become addicted. It’s most often applied to drugs such as heroin and prescription opioids, as these are the substances that typically cause the most severe withdrawal symptoms.
What Causes Withdrawal Symptoms?
Withdrawal symptoms become a problem when you’ve been taking a drug long enough for it to cause changes in your brain chemistry. Nerve cells in your brain called neurons undergo changes when repeatedly exposed to drugs. Neurons use chemicals called neurotransmitters to send signals, and the changes in your neurons affect the way your brain experiences pleasure.
Over time you may develop a dependency on a drug, as the changes in your neurons mean you need to take the drug just to feel normal. At this stage, if you try to stop taking the drug, the neurons can’t work properly, causing a range of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Muscle aches
- Sleeplessness
- Constantly runny nose
- Excessive sweating
- Constant yawning
If you persist in denying your brain the drug on which it’s become dependent, withdrawal symptoms worsen and can include:
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Dilated pupils
- Goosebumps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Withdrawal symptoms aren’t life-threatening, but they can be extremely unpleasant and distressing, making it a considerable challenge to keep going when you know you could feel better if you have the drug your body is missing.
The psychological effects of withdrawal can also be overwhelming, so it’s not surprising that withdrawal is the main barrier to successfully overcoming addiction. By allowing Carty Addiction and Internal Medicine Clinic to guide and support you through your withdrawal, you stand a far better chance of succeeding.