Learn More About The 3 Stages of Alcohol Addiction and Alcohol Medical Detox Options in Houston, TX.  

Alcohol addiction, a mental condition, is one of the most challenging addictions to identify in yourself and others. Excessive alcohol usage may have a negative influence on mental as well as physical wellness. With that in mind, it is critical to grasp what an alcohol addiction is, and additionally to be aware of the stages of alcohol addiction and also understand why medical detox is a vital initial step in alcohol addiction treatment. 

Alcohol addiction often progresses through three stages. Understanding the phases of alcohol addiction is critical for identifying and successfully treating the issue. Individuals and their loved ones can learn more about the course of alcohol addiction by exploring these unique phases. 

Read through this guide by Mallard Lake, the best medical detox center in Houston, TX, for more information.

Three Stages of Alcohol Addiction 

1. Binging Stage. Individuals in the bingeing stage engage in occasional alcohol abuse, which is defined as excessive and uncontrolled alcohol intake over a brief period. This stage is distinguished by binge drinking, which is ingesting significant amounts of alcohol in a single sitting, resulting in intoxication or drunkenness. Binge drinking is defined as having 5 or more drinks for men and 4 or more drinks for women within 2 hours. Binge drinking may cause poor decision-making, lack of coordination, memory lapses, aggressive behaviour, unsafe sexual behaviours, and vomiting. 
2. Withdrawal Stage. As cravings and withdrawal symptoms worsen, alcohol dependency becomes more obvious. When people suddenly cease or considerably decrease their alcohol use, they may suffer withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, agitation, tremors, sweating, headaches, depression, sleeplessness, lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and elevated heart rate and blood pressure. In extreme situations, people may experience hallucinations and delirium tremens (DTs), which are marked by disorientation, confusion, seizures, and convulsions. 
3. Anticipation Stage. During the anticipation stage, cravings and persistent excessive drinking cause physical and psychological consequences. Certain environments, social circumstances, mental issues, the availability of alcohol, or particular times of day may all intensify alcohol cravings. Alcohol anticipation refers to the psychological and physiological processes that occur when a person with alcohol addiction anticipates or expects to consume alcohol, resulting in cravings, heightened arousal, and an obsession with acquiring and drinking alcohol. 

Do you feel that you or a loved one are addicted to alcohol? Worry no more! Start your sobriety journey with a medical detox for alcohol program at Mallard Lake Detox Center today!

What is Alcohol Detox? 

Detoxification, or detox, is frequently the initial stage in the rehabilitation process for those suffering from alcoholism. Detox is the process of eliminating alcohol from the body after it has chemically accustomed to the substance’s presence on a daily basis. It may be completed in either an inpatient or outpatient medical detox environment. Detox is used to assist the body overcome withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms may range from moderate to severe, depending on how much the user drinks, how often, and if they are suffering from co-occurring problems. While alcohol detox does not ensure lifelong sobriety, it might be the first step towards a clean lifestyle when combined with rehabilitation or therapy. 

Why Is Alcohol Detox At Home Not Recommended? 

If someone has been drinking excessively for a long period and unexpectedly quits, withdrawal symptoms might occur within 24 hours. This happens when the alcohol is removed after your brain has gotten used to its presence. Withdrawal symptoms may be very unpleasant and even deadly. That is why medical detox is often recommended for individuals with moderate to severe addictions. In such a setting, they are carefully monitored by medical professionals ensuring their safety and making the overall experience less uncomfortable thus heightening the chances of recovery.

How Long Does Alcohol Medical Detox Take? 

Alcohol detox duration varies based on variables such as:

• Quantity of alcohol abused.
• Frequency of drinking.
• Underlying medical or mental health conditions.
• Personal circumstances like gender, age, and body weight.

Detoxing takes an average of one week, depending on the conditions. It may take longer in extreme circumstances. Even after detox, it may take weeks or months for the body to entirely treat the mind and the accompanying addictive behaviours or habits. 

Detox Safely Today at Mallard Lake Detox Center, The Best Medical Detox Center in Houston, TX.

Based on the severity of your dependency and the type of facility you are considering, both inpatient and outpatient programs can assist you in properly detoxing. For individuals with moderate to severe addiction, admission to an inpatient program such as the one offered at Mallard Lake Detox Center is recommended for round-the-clock supervision and assistance in successfully completing alcohol detox. Contact us right away!