Physiological dependence on alcohol and drugs is the first thing to acknowledge when getting clean. Many people have the idea that they can quit on their own, but this can be extremely dangerous. Not only is this one of the leading reasons for relapse, but it can also put your life at risk. When you’re ready to begin a new life free from addiction, you should always go to treatment for help.
The Dangers of Physiological Dependence
Your body is always doing its best to maintain equilibrium, and excessive use of substances changes this. There comes the point when your body doesn’t know how to function without your substance of choice. When the drug or alcohol begins to metabolize, you start to experience the harsh symptoms of withdrawal. The symptoms of withdrawal vary from drug to drug as well as the people experiencing withdrawal.
Some of the most common symptoms of withdrawal include:
- Aches and pains
- Body tremors
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Nausea
- Depression
Most substances, like alcohol and opiates, give you physiological symptoms of withdrawal. The problem is that people want to prove that they can go through withdrawal alone. When you’re withdrawing, your heart and brain are under a lot of stress. Without medical supervision, it’s possible to experience seizures, as well as cardiac arrest.
Physiological Dependence and Stimulants
For those who struggle with cocaine addiction or addiction to other stimulants, it’s a little different. Substances like cocaine, meth, and prescription amphetamines have different symptoms of withdrawal. Due to the cocaine effects on the brain, your withdrawal symptoms are primarily psychological. You’ll experience a lot of ups and downs while you detox as well as some intense cravings.
Overcoming the Physiological Dependence
By getting the help of a qualified addiction treatment center, you’ll be in good hands when you detox. At a treatment facility, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re safe. You’ll have medical staff available to you at all times to can help minimize your symptoms. They’re there to help keep you safe as well as comfortable throughout detox.
Medical detox is to help reduce your chances of having dangerous side effects from withdrawal. You’ll receive medications that can help moderate your blood pressure and heart rate. For those coming off of alcohol or benzodiazepines, you may receive anti-seizure medications. There are also medications that can help reduce the symptoms as well as cravings for opiates.
Steps to Recovery is a full-service addiction treatment facility that’s here to help. We want to help you or your loved one have a fresh start and successful healing process. Once you overcome the physical dependence, it’s time to work on learning how to manage life and stay clean. We help our clients do this by providing a wide range of treatment programs such as:
- Outpatient Treatment
- Drug and Alcohol Detox
Find out more about how we can help you or a loved one by calling us today at 267.719.8528.
