symptoms of alcohol withdrawal

Exploring The Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal

There is simply no way to sugarcoat it:  Detoxing from alcohol dependency is unpleasant at the least and horrible at the worst.  As the body attempts to rid itself from the toxins associated with alcohol abuse, it will rebel.  It is the necessary evil involved in beginning the recovery process from addiction, so take the long view when beginning detox and gut it out with a medically supervised detox.

For those individuals who do not wish to uproot and go to an inpatient facility to undergo the detox process, knowing a bit about alcohol withdrawal symptoms at home is useful information.  First and foremost, alcohol detox should not be attempted without medical monitoring.  This is because there may be serious withdrawal symptoms that must be managed by the intervention of a medical professional. 

What are Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?

Embarking on the path to recovery for an alcohol use disorder is not easy.  Many who sincerely want to break free of the addiction don’t follow through for various reasons, one of them being the anticipation of the nasty detox and withdrawal phase of recovery. 

Withdrawal symptoms while detoxing from alcohol addiction will vary according to several factors, including the length of the history of alcohol abuse, the amount of alcohol consumed on a regular basis, the person’s general state of health, gender, and age.  Depending on these factors, the withdrawal phase experienced will be one of three levels of severity: mild, moderate, or severe.

Withdrawal symptoms will begin to emerge about 6-12 hours following the last drink consumed.  Symptoms will peak on days 2 and 3, and then begin to subside gradually over the next several days.  Psychological symptoms, such as depression and anxiety, may persist for weeks.

Mild Withdrawal Symptoms:

  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal Distress
  • Agitation
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting
  • Heart Palpitations
  • Tremors
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Mood Swings

Moderate Withdrawal Symptoms:

  • Sweating
  • Irregular Heart Rate
  • Irritability
  • Mood Disturbances
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Increased Body Temperature
  • Heightened Respiration Rate
  • Confusion

Severe Withdrawal Symptoms: Delirium Tremens (DTs)

  • Fever
  • Hallucinations
  • Extreme Confusion
  • Agitation
  • Seizures

Depression and Insomnia are commonly experienced at all levels of withdrawals from alcohol detox.

Detoxing from alcohol, can pose serious, even life-threatening risks if undertaken without medical supervision.  Alcohol withdrawal and detox from alcohol should involve a trained in-home detox nurse who can monitor vitals and administer medications as needed.

Kinkaid Private Nursing Care Coordinates Professional Alcohol Detox at Home

Kinkaid Private Care will connect you to a qualified and trained in-home detox nurse who will provide supervised detox and withdrawal services, as well as holistic therapies, within the privacy of your home.  For more information about private alcohol detox at home, please call Kinkaid Private Nursing Care today at (866) 573-1542.

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man with his head in his hand being consoled

How to Help Someone Detox at Home

Battling a drug or alcohol addiction can completely upend your life. Work, family, finances, and friendships are all impacted as it begins to encroach on every aspect of your world. Unfortunately, if someone you know or love is struggling with addiction, it can be hard to know what to do. Meanwhile, as the negative consequences of addiction begin to pile up, it may be an excellent time to consider breaking free from its powerful grip. This post will give you the information you need to understand what a detox looks like and how to help someone detox at home from alcohol or opiates.

How to Help Someone Detox at Home

When a loved one is suffering from the consequences of addiction, it is understandable that you would want to help them get treatment. However, when approaching them, you may be met with resistance – maybe they aren’t yet ready to begin the process of recovery…or perhaps they are worried about people finding out about their struggles with drugs or alcohol. 

You can’t force someone who isn’t willing to be rehabilitated, but you can help someone who is ready to get help and understand the alternative to undergoing detox in a facility. By letting them know that detox and withdrawal can be safely and successfully completed in the privacy of their home, you can push through their privacy concerns and help them begin the recovery process.

Can a Person Detox at Home? 

If you envision yourself in a home detox, you may picture yourself doing some Internet research and then trying a hand at a DIY detox on your own or with the help of some of your friends. After all, they do it in the movies all the time, right? In reality, though, at-home detox is never recommended without medical supervision in almost every case. This is because of the serious risks involved, such as:

  • More severe symptoms: Withdrawing from alcohol or opiates can be more powerful when detoxing at home. For these types of symptoms, you likely need professional medical assistance. 
  • No contingency plans: Withdrawal can sometimes lead to health complications and emergencies. At home, there is almost always no one equipped to contend with these contingencies.  
  • Lack of medicine: You may not have access to the appropriate medications needed to manage withdrawal symptoms at home.
  • The worst-case scenario: Detoxing at home from addictive substances such as alcohol and opiates without medical supervision can prove fatal!

When is At-Home Detox Safe? 

So, what are your options when entering a rehab facility or detoxing at home by yourself are out of the question? The best, and safest thing you can do is turn to a private nursing care center to provide in-home alcohol and drug detox. With this option, a private detox nurse will monitor vital signs and quickly give medical emergency interventions if needed.  

Professional detox nursing services make detoxing at home a very safe proposition. There is a high standard of care involved and specialized training that allows for timely medical treatment. The detox nurse will supervise all phases of the detox, communicating with the attending physician as the detox proceeds.

Why In-Home Detox Services?

Proper detoxification is an essential step in the recovery process. After all, it’s not uncommon for individuals with addictions to experience physical and mental health issues that require medical attention while on drugs or alcohol. However, in a safe, supportive environment like private nursing care, your loved one will be taken care of by trained professionals who understand addiction and how it works. 

Besides providing a safe environment away from the temptation to use again, in-home detox services offer addiction treatment such as counseling. Additionally, the professional staff is qualified and experienced at handling every step of the detoxification process, including withdrawal symptoms and other medical needs during this time. 

How to Help Someone Detox from Alcohol at Home

One of the biggest obstacles to getting help for an alcohol use disorder concerns the perceived stigma associated with detox and rehab. In fact, people will often put off getting the support they need to overcome their alcohol problem in fear of their reputation being harmed in some way. Fortunately, in-home detox services offer many benefits that address these hesitancies, including:

  • Privacy and discretion: You or your family member goes through the detox and withdrawal process in the privacy of your home. This benefit eliminates the worry of being seen entering a detox facility or having your personal information put at risk.
  • Less anxiety: People are typically more comfortable in the safety and familiarity of their personal space versus a sterile detox facility
  • Exceptional care: An in-home detox program involves the same treatment protocols and physician-led care found at the highest-ranked detox centers. 
  • You are never alone: In the comfort of your home, professionally trained team members are always there when you need them to manage emerging and existing withdrawal symptoms.  
  • Specialized attention: An in-home alcohol detox service will provide a detox specialist to care for you and monitor your withdrawal symptoms. This specialized attention offers a higher level of care than you would receive at a detox center.

How to Help Someone Detoxing from Opiates at Home 

Regardless of the substance of abuse, going through detox and withdrawal symptoms is simply no fun. But, of course, anyone struggling with addiction who has ever found themselves without their substance knows precisely what withdrawal symptoms look like, as these will set in within hours after the last dose. Therefore, it’s understandable that the dread of the detox process may cause some to push it to the back burner. 

Rest assured that an in-home addiction treatment service will provide an individualized plan of care that can include medical supervision and medication needed during withdrawal to alleviate that dread. This service can involve prescription medications and over-the-counter medication, depending on the substance of abuse. 

Know the Substance

Knowing the substance that someone has been using, along with how long they have been using it, can be helpful with treatment and overcoming addiction. For instance, the longer that person uses alcohol and the more they drink can determine how severe their withdrawal symptoms will be, along with the timeline they can expect for the withdrawals to last. In turn, this can factor into the specialized treatment options they receive.  

When people ask us how to detox from alcohol at home, we recommend speaking to one of our addiction and recovery specialists. Once they start treatment, our licensed and trained medical staff can oversee them and safely guide them through the home detox process.

Tips to Help Someone Detox at Home

When you are supporting someone through detox, your role is that of support and encouragement. Therefore, to help with detox at home, it’s best to remain positive and calm, which, in turn, creates a safe atmosphere in the home.

Other tips to help the person detox include:

  • Knowing that detox doesn’t end when the person gets past withdrawal. We at Kinkaid recommend the person go through Aftercare Planning after detox to change their addictive behaviors and reduce the chances of a relapse.
  • Understanding that the physical withdrawal symptoms often worsen before getting better (Day 3-4 is usually when opiate withdrawal peaks). 
  • Helping the person get their mind off of cravings by using the D’s listed below:
    • Do: Encourage the person to do activities such as watching movies or TV, playing cards, taking warm baths and listening to upbeat music.
    • Delay: Suggest that the person put off decisions for about an hour.
    • Drink: Encourage hydration, especially when it comes to drinking water.
    • Discuss: Talk to the rehabee to motivate and remind them of their reasons for stopping drinking or taking the drug.
    • Do: Get them to do some gentle exercise such as walking, stretching, yoga and Tai Chi.

Things That Won’t Help During Detox

Along with knowing things that will help during a detox, it’s important to know the things that won’t. For example, not being prepared or having too much going on won’t help someone who is detoxing and may even cause them stress. Instead, you can better serve them by taking some time off work and getting some additional assistance for looking after any young children or seniors and explaining what is happening to them.

On the other hand, a person undergoing detoxification may seem agitated. For this reason, arguing or taking what the person detoxing says personally won’t help. Instead, be patient and supportive while they get through the detoxification process. Additionally, anyone you know that may cause arguments should be discouraged from visiting, along with any drug-using acquaintances.  

Kinkaid Private Nursing Care Coordinates In-Home Detox Services

Kinkaid Private Care safely and discreetly coordinates concierge in-home nursing services, including private detox services. In addition, the trained detox nurses are prepared to intervene with medical and psychological support as the detox process progresses. For more information about how to help someone detox at home, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Kinkaid Private Nursing Care today at (866) 337-4596.

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Pills scattered from a pink bottle. What you need to know about Benzo Detox at Home

Benzo Detox at Home: Everything You Need to Know

Benzodiazepines (benzos), such as Valium, Ativan, Klonopin, and Xanax, are widely prescribed for a reason. These sedatives, also referred to as tranquilizers, offer swift relief from the symptoms of anxiety, panic disorder, or insomnia. People who struggle with these conditions are beyond ecstatic when they initially experience how quickly these medications take the edge off and lead to a relaxed state of being. But, as with other prescription drugs, there is another side to the benzo story. 

Relief That May Come at a Price

While Benzodiazepines may reward the person with fast-acting relief from uncomfortable symptoms, this may come at a price. This class of drugs is highly addictive, with tolerance to the drug’s effects escalating quickly. 

Soon, you realize it requires more frequent dosing or higher dosages to experience that calming sensation. Here are some other adverse physical and chemical responses that happen in the body when taking benzodiazepines:

  • Your brain adapts. When tolerance increases, that is a sign that the brain has made adaptations in response to the presence of the drug. After continued use of benzos, the brain begins to recognize its chemical properties and adjust its own natural chemistry production in response. 
  • Dependency and abuse. The addiction-forming chemical properties of benzos make them ripe for dependence and abuse.
  • Withdrawal symptoms. Alterations in brain chemistry cause withdrawal symptoms once you have developed a dependency on a benzodiazepine medication. When the drug is withheld, the brain struggles to adjust, leading to a cascade of physical and psychological symptoms.

To minimize the potential risks of benzo detox and withdrawal, a trained detox team, either at a detox facility or a benzo detox at home, will manage the process by gradually stepping down the benzo dosing until the person is eventually weaned off the drug. Additionally, the detox professionals will provide the necessary medical support for minimizing discomfort and psychological support.

What are the Benefits of At-Home Detox?

There are ample benefits for selecting a home detox versus going through the uncomfortable process in a sterile detox facility. Some of these benefits include:

Privacy

One way of protecting privacy during the detox process is to obtain these supportive medical services in the comfort of one’s home. Helping someone complete the detox at home can begin the recovery process while ensuring that these services are fully discreet.

Less stress

Going through the detox process among your familiar surroundings is much less stressful when compared to a detox facility. Being at home also means having access to supportive family members.

Higher level of care

Having one-on-one medical oversight provides the utmost level of care, and gives the individual confidence that they will be carefully supervised throughout the detox and withdrawal process.

Family support

A home detox nurse and their team can also support family members during their loved one’s detox phase and prepare them for the next step of rehabilitation and what it will entail.

Is Benzo Detox at Home a Safe Option?

Once you begin to recognize that you’ve developed a problem with benzodiazepines, you may be tempted to try to detox on your own. Hoping to avoid exposing your substance abuse problem to others, you might one day decide just to stop taking Xanax or Valium altogether. This course of action would be a grave mistake, as benzo withdrawal symptoms can be unpredictable and dangerous. However, you can still achieve the goal of a discreet at-home detox experience safely and through the services of a private detox nurse.

Private detox nurses are trained medical professionals who can quickly respond with appropriate interventions as needed. Under the supervision of a physician, the detox nurse will ease you through the detox and withdrawal process. Home detox is a safe and more private alternative to going to a detox center. The detox nurse is also fully trained to provide medical assistance for benzo withdrawal symptoms, from mild to more severe.

What Can I Expect During a Benzo Detox at Home?

Although benzodiazepine detox is not a pleasant experience, with a team of addiction professionals guiding and monitoring the process, the discomforts of withdrawal can be significantly reduced. The benzo detox period generally lasts 1-2 weeks in duration. This timeline and the severity of symptoms rest on several factors, such as the length of time of the benzo addiction, the usual daily dosage, and the individual’s general health status.

What are the Withdrawal Symptoms of Benzodiazepines?

Benzo withdrawal symptoms may include the following:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Agitation
  • Diarrhea
  • Panic attacks
  • Tremors
  • Confusion and impaired cognitive function
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Irritability
  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Dry heaves
  • Short-term memory problems
  • Heart palpitations
  • Anxiety
  • Seizures

The at-home detox team will ensure that you receive medications to help soothe much of the discomfort associated with withdrawal symptoms.

About Rebound Anxiety & Insomnia

Benzodiazepines are often prescribed for the short-term relief of generalized anxiety disorder and insomnia. But, when people stop taking them, many experience a magnified sense of anxiety and difficulty sleeping. When this happens, it is known as the rebound effect.

There is a difference between rebound anxiety and withdrawal. With rebound anxiety, the increased symptoms are in response to the regression of symptoms that were there before the person started taking benzos. Withdrawal symptoms, on the other hand, are realized when the body scrambles to adapt to the cessation of taking benzos.

How long does benzo rebound anxiety last?

If you want to know how long a benzo rebound lasts, the effects of anxiety and insomnia typically last 2 to 3 days.

Will I Need to Go to Rehab?

While completing the detox and withdrawal is an excellent start to the recovery journey, it is only the beginning of reaching your goal of living a life free of drugs, such as Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, or Ativan. To break that grip, you must learn new ways of coping with emotions and stressors that otherwise would have sent you reaching for the medication. This goal is accomplished through the multi-pronged addiction recovery program available in either an outpatient or residential setting.

It is a good idea to begin researching different rehab options prior to the start of the at-home detox, allowing enough time to locate a program that is the right fit for your needs. With so many options available, it can take a while to decide on the rehab, check insurance benefits, and plan for this critical recovery phase.

Pronounced Addiction Needs Residential Rehab

Generally, the more serious the benzo addiction, the higher the level of care is needed. For emerging benzodiazepine dependence, an outpatient program will likely provide the right balance of therapy, education, and freedom. For more pronounced addiction, residential rehab is appropriate. The residential setting provides housing for an extended stay, usually 1-3 months, with 24-hour support and a full schedule of therapeutic activities.

Both outpatient and residential rehabs aim to address and treat dysfunctional thought patterns and behavioral habits that have led to the benzo problem. A sustained recovery depends on learning new ways of framing your thoughts and healthy responses to triggers. This is why cognitive behavioral therapy will be the focus of the rehab experience.

In addition to the CBT, you will participate in a variety of activities that support recovery goals. These include group therapy, addiction education, 12-step programming, psychosocial skill-building, complementary activities, such as life skills, relaxation techniques, and nutrition and wellness counseling.

Continuing Your Care after Rehab

Once your rehab program is completed, recovery will be further reinforced through continuing care actions. These are the supportive activities that help you maintain abstinence from benzodiazepines. 

Continuing care efforts include measures, such as staying in a sober living home if you do not have a supportive home environment, remaining active in a local recovery community such as A.A. or a similar program, and continuing to see your therapist on an outpatient basis. All of these measures are going to increase the chance for long-term recovery success.

Learn How to Relax Without Drugs

People generally lean on benzodiazepines with the hope of reducing the effects of stress and anxiety experienced in daily life. Once you have completed detox and rehab, you will need to access new healthy ways to reduce stress and to achieve a feeling of relaxation. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to do this without the need to return to prescription medications:

  • Practicing yoga. Yoga is an ancient practice that has been shown to deliver significant benefits to people who struggle with stress or anxiety. The motions and postures vary depending on the style of yoga, with some forms of yoga being suited explicitly for relaxation. Yoga combines physical actions with a focus on breathing and mindfulness.
  • Deep breathing. We can quickly calm our minds and bodies when practicing deep breathing techniques. Through the purposeful process of deeply inhaling, holding the breath for a few seconds, and then fully exhaling, we can lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and release muscle tension. Repeat this pattern several times to fully benefit from deep breathing exercises.
  • Essential oils. Essential oils are the concentrated liquids derived from flowers and plants. The oils are used for a multitude of medicinal purposes, with certain oils used for healing various conditions. The best essential oils are peppermint, lavender, lemongrass, frankincense, and rose when it comes to managing stress.
  • Herbal supplements. Herbal supplements are drug-free, natural remedies to help treat stress and anxiety. Some of the most popular include ginkgo biloba, Ashwagandha, passionflower, valerian root, and L-Theanine.
  • Therapeutic massage. When you find yourself experiencing tension throughout your body, indulge in a relaxation massage. A Swedish massage provides a moderate amount of pressure while gently working the tension out of your muscles.
  • Mindfulness. Mindfulness works by training yourself to ignore distracting and upsetting thoughts and focusing on the present moment instead. Shifting the focus away from distressing thoughts toward the sensations experienced at a given moment helps avoid dwelling on stress-inducing thoughts and worries.
  • Physical activity. One of the best ways to relieve stress is through exercise. Physical exertion helps stimulate endorphins, which can rapidly improve your overall state of mind. In addition, exercise helps produce the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which can help reduce stress and enhance the quality of sleep.

Kinkaid Private Care Provides Private Detox Nursing Services at Home

Kinkaid Private Care is a leading home detox service provider, offering expert detox professionals to help individuals begin recovery in the privacy of their own homes. Kinkaid Private Care detox nurses work closely with a physician who is an addiction specialist. The doctor guides the benzo tapering schedule and oversees the detox from start to finish. For more information about completing an in home benzo detox, please contact us today.

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woman working from her computer while doing suboxone detox at home

Suboxone Detox at Home

How to Suboxone Detox at Home Safely and Comfortably

Imagine the disappointment upon discovering that the drug you have been taking to wean you off of heroin or other opioids has crossed over into its own insidious addiction.  Suboxone was praised as a wonder drug back in 2002 when it came onto the market to much fanfare in the addiction and recovery field.  Made of four parts buprenorphine (“bupe”) and one part naloxone, Suboxone promised to be a safer, more easily prescribed alternative to methadone.  In many cases, Suboxone works very well as a short or long-term medication to prevent relapse.  But for some, this drug proves to be addictive and prone to abuse.

Because Suboxone is itself an opioid, the dangers of dependency can quietly emerge.  These long-term effects were not foreseen fifteen years ago when the FDA approved it for use in medically assisted treatment for addiction.  Suboxone has a lengthy half-life of 37 hours, allowing it to build up in the system when using it on a daily basis, contributing to the risk of dependency developing.  Eventually, Suboxone inpatient detox or Suboxone detox at home becomes the next step in recovery from opioids.

Suboxone Detox at Home is a Viable Option

When it is time to get treatment for an opioid dependency, there are many things to consider.  Inpatient treatment requires a lengthy absence from home and work, making it a deterrent for many to seek treatment.  As an outpatient, Suboxone detox at home allows the individual to still have the ability to fulfill a portion of their work and family obligations while going through detox in the privacy of the home environment.

The only way to achieve success with a suboxone detox at home is to have the process managed by a medical professional.  Detoxing from Suboxone takes time, and the withdrawal symptoms are nasty, so the risk of giving up and continuing to abuse Suboxone is high without some medical supervision.  The in-home detox professional will adhere to a strict tapering schedule while treating the flu-like symptoms of opioid withdrawal.

What to Expect with Suboxone Detox at Home

Suboxone is a partial opioid agonist, which means that trying to stop it will trigger the same types of withdrawal symptoms of most other opiates.  The withdrawal symptoms will vary based on the severity of the dependency and the level of dosing.  Suboxone detox and withdrawal is said to last longer than other opioids because it is chemically designed to block cravings for an extended period of time.  Withdrawal symptoms ensue approximately 6-12 hours after the last dosing and include:

  • Nausea
  • Muscle aches
  • Vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Diarrhea
  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Lethargy
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Cravings
  • Mood swings
  • Trouble concentrating

Many of these withdrawal symptoms can be managed using over-the-counter medications.  Symptoms peak at 72 hours, then begin to slowly subside.  Depression and cravings may persist for a month or more, which makes the individual at risk for relapse.

Holistic Therapies that Aid Suboxone Detox

At-home detox nurses can provide longer-term holistic therapies that will aid in this challenging period.  These natural therapeutic remedies can aid in restoring health while promoting stress reduction.  There is much evidence that experiential and holistic therapies can help reduce the discomforts of withdrawing from opioids, and are very useful in ongoing aftercare and relapse prevention.

Some of the Concierge Services and holistic therapies used in at-home Suboxone detox include IV vitamin therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, guided imagery, yoga and meditation.  These activities can enhance recovery as well as provide avenues to self-discovery.

Kinkaid Private Care Coordinates Suboxone Detox At-Home Services

Kinkaid Private Care will coordinate a multi-disciplinary opioid detox care team to professionally manage a Suboxone detox at home.  The care team is lead by a board-certified physician and supported by a trained detox nursing staff.  Kinkaid Private Care coordinates concierge holistic therapies to round out the comprehensive detox treatment plan.  For more information about our highly trained medical providers please contact us.

For more information, please visit our homepage and learn about the array of services we provide. These services include at-home IV Vitamin Therapy, in-home nursing care, and the coordination of a variety of at-home medical services in the Los Angeles area, as well as home detox services all over the state of California. We also offer at-home Covid-19 testing.

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drug overdose treatment at home

Drug Overdose Treatment at Home

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How to Treat Overdose at Home

Any drug overdose, no matter the specific drug, is always a medical emergency. When an overdose occurs, a swift response is essential as drug overdoses can be life-threatening.

For some people, the idea of going to a facility may not be acceptable. Things such as privacy issues or fear of the stigma that is associated with drug and alcohol abuse. For these individuals, drug overdose treatment at home is an excellent option.

A private detox nurse can be dispatched quickly to intervene in a drug overdose within the comfort and privacy of the home setting. A private nurse works closely with a medical doctor trained in addiction medicine to rapidly dispense life-saving medications and treatments. When needed, the nurse, trained in detox and withdrawal, can guide the individual through the detox process as well.

Drug overdose treatment at home can make the difference between getting the necessary medical attention or not. When considering the possibility of being admitted to a hospital, some prefer to take their chances and endure the overdose rather than jeopardize their reputation. This can result in loss of life. The at-home drug overdose interventions offer total privacy as well as quality medical treatment.

About Drug or Alcohol Overdose

An overdose occurs when someone consumes more of a substance than the body can safely metabolize. The psychological effects that occur from overdose will vary based on the substance involved, as well as other factors.

Drug overdoses have dominated the national news for several years now, usually involving opioid prescription drugs or heroin. More than 70,000 people died from a drug overdose in 2017, according to statistics provided by the Centers for Disease Control. However, every year there are overdose deaths associated with a wide range of substances, including:

  • 17,000 deaths involving prescription opioids
  • 15,000 deaths involving heroin
  • 11,000 deaths involving benzos
  • 5,000 deaths involving meth
  • 2,200 deaths involving alcohol poisoning or binge drinking

Many reasons why individuals may overdose on a substance including:

  • being careless about the dosage
  • using drugs after a period of abstinence
  • accidental, or intentional overdose (suicide).

Overdose risk factor increases when the substance is obtained on the street or online, as the contents of the drug may not be known.

Heroin and illicit sources for prescription medications have been found to contain fentanyl, an extremely potent synthetic opioid. Safe practices dictate that excess prescription pills should be disposed of, versus being stored in the family medicine cabinet where they might be abused.

Signs of an Overdose

When an overdose occurs the individual will be in obvious distress. Medical attention on time is essential, whether it is treatment received at home or in a hospital setting, as time is of the essence. Signs of a drug or alcohol overdose might include:

  • Loss of consciousness
  • Vomiting
  • Mental confusion
  • Cool, clammy skin
  • Sweating
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Irregular vital signs, either increased or decreased pulse rate, temperature, blood pressure, or heart rate
  • Coma

Do not leave the individual unattended; instead, take the necessary steps to obtain essential treatment. For intentional overdoses, the individual will require psychiatric intervention. In an opioid overdose, a first responder carries a drug called naloxone, which, if given quickly, can revive the person.

Drug Overdose Treatment at Home

Individuals or their loved ones who opt for in-home overdose treatment will be closely monitored as support is provided.

Family members can provide important information to the private nursing team, such as if there is a history of addiction or chemical dependence, what prescription drugs the individual is on, and the person’s doctor’s contact information.

An assessment will determine the extent of potential poisoning. Lab tests will show how the substance affects organs, often alongside a drug screening. Drug overdose treatment may involve:

  • Gastric lavage, or stomach pumping, will remove any unabsorbed substances from the stomach
  • Activated charcoal treatment, which reduces the amount of the substance that could be absorbed in the stomach and digestive tract
  • Sedatives or restraints, the individual is violent or agitated, posing a danger to self or others
  • Antidote medications can help reverse the effects of the overdosed substance.
  • IV fluids, vitamins, or glucose in case of alcohol poisoning
  • Oxygen therapy

These interventions are performed as needed to prevent loss of life and to assist the individual through the healing process that follows.

Getting Help for a Substance Use Disorder

After someone experiences a drug overdose the experience is likely to motivate them to get professional help for overcoming a substance use disorder. For individuals who value their privacy, an in-home detox nursing team can guide him or her through the stages of detox and withdrawal, allowing them to stay in their own living space during this important step.

Following the completion of the detox phase of recovery, case management services will provide referrals to either outpatient or residential treatment. Though skipping this crucial step after completing detox may be tempting, it constitutes a serious mistake.

Addiction behavior patterns are addressed through various therapeutic elements, which help the individual establish new healthy thought and behavior patterns, acquire new coping skills, create a relapse prevention plan, and dial into a recovery community.

In addition, some individuals may benefit from medication-assisted treatment, which is monitored within the construct of a formal addiction program and aftercare services.

At Home Detox and Withdrawal

Once the individual is out of immediate danger the focus will begin to shift toward detox and treatment. The first step in recovery is the detox and withdrawal phase. Which can last one to two weeks depending on the substance of abuse and the acuity of the substance use disorder.

An in-home detox nurse can provide medical and psychological support while assisting the individual through the withdrawal symptoms. Vital signs are monitored and forwarded daily to the physician in charge. Medical interventions help minimize pain and discomfort during the detox process. Medications used might include benzos, mood stabilizers, opioid antagonists, opioid agonists, non-opioid agonists, and over-the-counter medications.

Withdrawal symptoms will vary based on several factors, including:

  • Substance of abuse
  • Length of addiction history
  • Usual levels of consumption
  • General health status
  • Age
  • Presence of a co-occurring mental health disorder

Some common withdrawal symptoms include:

Withdrawal Symptoms from Drinking Alcohol

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Shakiness
  • Headache
  • Feeling irritable
  • Insomnia
  • Sweating
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Delusions
  • Hand tremors
  • Loss of appetite
  • Seizures

Opiates

  • Muscle pain
  • Nightmares
  • Confusion
  • Agitation
  • Restlessness
  • Clammy skin
  • Lethargy
  • Excessive hunger or loss of appetite
  • Shakiness
  • Congestion
  • Watery eyes
  • Slurred speech
  • Paranoia
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Feelings of detachment
  • Stomach cramps
  • Hallucinate
  • Severe anxiety
  • Depression

Benzos

  • Muscle spasms
  • Insomnia
  • Sweating
  • Irritable
  • Restlessness
  • Headache
  • Tremors
  • Excessive sensitivity to stimuli
  • Memory and concentration problems
  • Detachment
  • Panic attacks
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Muscle and joint aches
  • Racing pulse
  • Blurred vision
  • Delirium
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Grand mal seizures

In-home detox can provide the supervision and expertise to manage withdrawal symptoms as they arise. Delirium tremens can emerge during alcohol detox, the individual will be provided with emergency services.

At-Home Addiction Treatment and Recovery

Addiction recovery relies heavily on a multi-modal approach to making fundamental changes in the way one thinks and responds to triggering situations. Treatment is available in either an outpatient or residential setting. Outpatient settings offer greater flexibility, enabling individuals to maintain their work and home life while undergoing treatment for a specified number of hours each week.

Residential treatment involves 24-hour supervision and therapeutic support. Generally, individuals with an opioid use disorder or a moderate to severe alcohol use disorder will benefit from a residential setting.

Treatment elements include:

  • Psycho therapy. Individual therapy sessions help to process and heal underlying issues that may be factors in the addiction behaviors. Moreover, cognitive-behavioral therapy can help individuals adapt their responses to stressors or triggers, establishing essential skills for recovery.
  • Support Groups. Support groups help people by providing peer support and encouraging active participation in their treatment. Group sessions involve a small number of participants led by a clinician who will encourage sharing and supportive behaviors.
  • Medication. Certain individuals find relief through medications for a co-occurring mental health disorder. By managing the symptoms of the disorder through medications such as mood enhancers, addiction treatment is more effective.
  • Holistic complementary activities. Given that stress is a major contributor to relapse, modern addiction treatment integrates relaxation techniques. Learning how to manage stress and induce relaxation is an important coping skill.
  • Recovery Participation. Participation in local recovery meetings such as A.A. can encourage social support and accountability.

While a drug overdose is a serious incident, it is also an opportunity to address the dangers of addiction and commit to a new life in recovery.

Kinkaid Private Care Drug Overdose Treatment at Home

Kinkaid Private Care provides expert at-home private nursing support for individuals who have suffered a drug or alcohol overdose. Our private nurses are trained in addiction recovery and work under the supervision of a physician who monitors the treatment from beginning to end. If you are ready to begin the recovery process and want to complete detox and withdrawal in the privacy of your home, contact us today

For more information, please visit our homepage and learn about the array of services we provide. These services include at-home IV Vitamin Therapy, in-home nursing care, and the coordination of a variety of at-home medical services in the Los Angeles area, as well as home detox services all over the state of California.

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how to detox from ice at home

How to Detox From Ice at Home

How to Detox From Meth

Methamphetamine is a powerful man-made stimulant that goes by various street names, including “ice” due to its crystalline appearance. The drug can be snorted, injected, smoked, or taken orally, and is highly addictive. Initially, the user experiences an intense rush of euphoria and heightened energy, which impacts the neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin. The brain’s reward system registers the experience as a pleasurable one, setting the individual up for future ice abuse. Repeated use of meth quickly results in increased tolerance to the drug’s effects, leading to ever-higher meth dosing.

It isn’t long before an ice addict begins to witness the toll the drug is taking on their mental and physical health, as well as the devastation caused in their life. A destructive cycle of abuse sets in, including meth binges called tweaking. Tweaking refers to the individual not sleeping for days at a time who then develops a sort of temporary psychosis.

Ice addiction is one of the most challenging addictions to overcome, with 92% of those who completed detox relapsing. Anyone who has read or seen the movie version of Beautiful Boy learned about the intense grip the drug had over Nic Sheff, who succumbed to repeated relapses before eventually beating the ice addiction. It is possible to successfully recover from an ice addiction, with the first step being detox and withdrawal. When considering undergoing detox from this drug, some may inquire how to detox from ice at home.

The Benefits of Home Detox For Meth Addiction

When facing down the prospect of getting clean before going through a treatment program there are a couple of detox options available, including the inpatient detox center option and an at-home detox. For many, the idea of staying in a detox facility is not ideal, which brings us to the concept of detoxing from ice at home.

An at-home detox and withdrawal process has several benefits. These include:

  • Going through detox at home offers a sense of comfort and familiarity
  • An at-home detox ensures privacy and confidentiality
  • Being home during detox allows the family to be supportive and present
  • An at-home detox offers personalized care and attention

Private home detox nurses are trained in addiction treatment, giving them the expertise to monitor for dangerous withdrawal symptoms and respond promptly. The private nurse works under the supervision of a physician who specializes in addiction treatment.

The Effects of Ice Addiction

Once someone is addicted to meth they will be unable to control their drug-seeking behaviors and meth use. This is because the brain’s chemical makeup has been altered and dopamine production dwindles. Without the drug, the individual feels no pleasure. As addiction sets in, the individual’s life will begin to unravel. Legal problems, loss of jobs, financial problems, custody issues, and even homelessness will begin to define their days.

Because meth is so toxic, serious health conditions can develop as a result of addiction. Some of the effects of long-term ice abuse include:

  • Serious dental problems
  • Skin sores, picking at invisible bugs
  • Weight loss
  • Droopy skin
  • Sleep deprivation
  • Angry or violent outbursts
  • Cognitive and memory problems
  • Aggressive behavior
  • Mental confusion
  • Mood swings
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Auditory and visual hallucinations
  • Delusions

How to Detox From Ice at Home Safely

When wondering how to detox from ice at home, it is imperative to understand that this should never be attempted without medical supervision. Meth detox is often accompanied by emotional and psychological withdrawal symptoms, sometimes leading to self-harm or suicide attempts.

A private medical provider who is trained in detox and addiction treatment can accompany the individual through the detox process at home. This is a valuable option, as remaining home for the duration of the detox period can be far less stressful than a detox facility. Some desire a home detox for privacy concerns, while others want their family members close by. These advantages make an in-home detox a desirable avenue to consider when deciding to confront the meth addiction and begin recovery.

Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

Ice withdrawal symptoms begin within 24 hours of the last dosing and can take an average of two weeks to complete. Symptoms will peak at days 7-10, and then begin to subside in severity. Meth withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Extreme fatigue and lethargy
  • Excessive sleepiness
  • Intense cravings
  • Increased appetite
  • Dry mouth
  • Shaking or jittery
  • Depression
  • Hopelessness
  • Apathy
  • Hallucinations
  • Paranoia
  • Delusions
  • Suicidal thoughts

While there are as of yet no specific medications to assist in meth withdrawal, there are various medications that can be provided during detox that will help reduce discomfort. Wellbutrin, which is an antidepressant, has been shown to help reduce meth cravings. In addition, the drug, Provigil, is a mild stimulant that can help with sleep disturbances.

Getting Treatment for a Meth Addiction

After the individual has successfully completed the detox process at home, they will need to be admitted to a residential treatment program for a minimum of one month, although longer is preferred. Detox only clears the system of the toxins and chemicals associated with methamphetamine, but the addictive behavior patterns remain. The rehab program will provide a comprehensive treatment plan that helps the former meth addict reshape their maladaptive thoughts and behaviors toward positive ones in recovery.

Treatment for an ice addiction includes:

Individual psychotherapy: During these one-on-one talk therapy sessions, the individual will work with a therapist to examine any possible underlying emotional issues related to the addictive behaviors. Among the evidence-based therapies available, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be the most effective for treating ice addiction. CBT helps the individual establish new thought-behavior patterns, which act as a powerful recovery skill to override triggers. CBT can also be effective in treating co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression.

Group therapy: In the small group sessions a therapist will guide topics of discussion allowing others to share their own personal challenges or stories, which can foster peer support in recovery. Giving individuals a voice, a platform where they can safely discuss their struggles with ice addiction can be a source of renewed confidence. Group support offers an environment that provides fellowship and mutual social support.

Dual diagnosis treatment: Co-occurring mental health disorders are very common among addicts. When there is a coexisting mental health condition it should be treated at the same time as the addiction for best recovery results. It is essential that the mental health piece be treated in order to increase the potential for a long-term recovery. The individual should seek out a rehab program that specializes in dual diagnosis treatment.

12-step recovery program: Many rehabs incorporate A.A.’s 12-step programming into the treatment program, while others may use a non-12-step approach. Recovery meetings provide a non-judgmental setting where individuals gain inspiration from each other, and can establish new sober friendships. The recovery community is a valuable continuing care component as well.

Addiction counseling: Classes that help recovering addicts understand the neurobiological impact of meth on the brain and the central nervous system can be helpful in deterring relapse. Relapse prevention planning is also included in these sessions. Each participant is tasked with identifying his or her own particular triggers and then creating a strategic plan of action when relapse threatens to undermine recovery.

Life skills counseling: Individuals will learn various recovery skills that will help reinforce their ability to stay on track. These might include coping skills, anger management skills, conflict resolution skills, communication skills, and more. Case management can help coordinate various social services that may be needed in early recovery, such as housing, social services, legal services, or employment services.

Continuing care services: After completion of the rehab program, individuals are encouraged to access aftercare services. These include 12-step meetings, such as N.A., weekly therapy sessions, and sober living housing. Continuing care efforts are essential if sobriety is to be maintained, especially in the early months of recovery.

Individuals who cannot take an extended leave from work or child-rearing responsibilities may need to access an intensive outpatient program (IOP). The outpatient option is not ideal for someone with an ice addiction, however, it is available for those for whom residential care is not an option. Outpatient programming provides the flexibility that allows the individual to remain employed during treatment, which lasts 3-6 months, and many outpatient programs now offer evening classes. Also, the individual is free to live at home, versus in a rehab facility, which can substantially reduce the costs of treatment.

Can the Brain Recover From Ice Addiction?

Ice addiction may be a very challenging substance use disorder to recover from, but it is definitely possible. But what about the damage done to the brain? Can someone who has abused meth reverse the damage this powerful drug has done to the brain? Meth is one of the most potent and destructive drugs of abuse available. The toxic substances that meth is made of will do significant damage to the body, the mind, and the brain. Meth can destroy brain cells, as well s trigger acute changes in the neurotransmitters, even completely remapping the brain’s reward system. Meth can impact motor skills, speech, cognitive skills, and memory.

In recovery, it is possible for the brain to recover to a significant extent. However, the process of healing and restoring function is one that is long, taking about 1 ½ years of continuous sobriety. However, over a prolonged period of sustained recovery, it is possible that the individual will experience improvements in brain functioning.

7 Ways to Avoid Relapse

One of the most daunting challenges for anyone in recovery, regardless of the substance of abuse, is avoiding a relapse. The risk of relapse is particularly challenging in the first year of recovery when the individual is most vulnerable. Relapse will, however, be a constant threat in recovery, so individuals need to remain vigilant in their efforts to avoid it. Here are some tips that can help a recovering addict avoid a methamphetamine relapse:

  1. A continuing care plan. Before discharge from rehab, make sure there is a solid continuing care plan in place. Upon discharge, have outpatient therapy sessions already scheduled, locate a recovery community, such as N.A. where social support will be provided, and possibly consider staying in sober living for a while until recovery feels more secure.
  2. Avoid risk. Identifying relapse risks is an exercise that helps the individual to acknowledge the situations, people, or places that may trigger re-occurrence. Once these potential threats to recovery are identified, the individual will consider specific steps to take when exposed to a triggering situation. Sticking to the plan and avoiding known risks to recovery is essential in preventing a relapse.
  3. Mindfulness. Mindfulness meditation is a highly effective tool for managing distracting thoughts and emotions in early recovery. Practicing mindfulness can reduce feelings of stress, and depression, as well as reduce cravings. This form of meditation helps train the mind to shift from negative or stressful.
  4. Get regular exercise. One of the most productive ways to avoid relapse is to begin a fitness program alongside the recovery journey. Setting fitness goals helps motivate one toward achieving long-term goals. Physical activity helps produce “feel good” brain chemicals, such as endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine that boost mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.
  5. Have a trusted confidante. Have someone you can confide in a sponsor, a trusted friend or family member, or a psychotherapist. This person provides a safe, non-judgmental audience for someone to share, without reserve, any feelings of ambivalence about recovery, possible threats to recovery, or the signs of an impending re-occurrence. As a result, this confidante can usher the person to a meeting, engage in a distracting activity, or stay at his or her side as this threat passes.
  6. Establish a healthy routine. After treatment, it is very helpful to create a new healthy lifestyle that will help support recovery efforts. This involves sticking to a schedule and revamping the diet by increasing lean proteins, omega-3 fatty oils, nuts and seeds, fresh produce, and low-fat dairy while decreasing processed and sugary foods. It also means keeping good hygiene habits and taking care of one’s appearance.
  7. Use recovery tools. While in treatment, the individual will be introduced to several effective strategies that help reinforce recovery and avoid re-occurrence. These recovery tools include such things as relaxation techniques, conflict resolution skills, more effective communication techniques, and emotion regulation techniques. These tools should be accessed regularly until they become new habits, significantly reducing the risk of re-occurrence.

Kinkaid Private Care Explains How to Detox From Ice at Home

If you or your loved one needs help with detox, please visit our In-Home Detox page to see how we can help. Kinkaid Private Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client.

For more information, please visit our homepage and learn about our values and the array of services we provide. These services include home detox throughout California, as well as in-home nursing care and the coordination of a variety of at-home medical services in the Los Angeles area. We also offer at-home Covid-19 testing.

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how to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms at home

How to Treat Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms at Home

The Benefits of In-Home Alcohol Detox

One of the biggest obstacles to getting help for an alcohol use disorder involves concerns about the perceived stigma associated with detox and rehab. People will often put off getting the help they need to overcome the alcohol problem in fear of their reputation being harmed in some way. In-home detox services offer many benefits. These include:

  • Privacy and discretion
    The individual will go through the detox and withdrawal process in the privacy of his or her own home. This eliminates the worry of being seen entering a detox facility or of their personal information being at risk.
  • Less anxiety
    People are more comfortable in the safety and familiarity of their personal space, versus a sterile detox facility.
  • One-on-one care
    An in-home alcohol detox service will provide a detox specialist to care for the individual and monitor the withdrawal symptoms. This individualized attention provides a higher level of care than one would receive at a detox center.

What are Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?

Embarking on the path to recovery for an alcohol use disorder is not easy.  Many who sincerely want to break free of the addiction don’t follow through for various reasons, one of them being the anticipation of the nasty detox and withdrawal phase of recovery.  Withdrawal symptoms while detoxing from alcohol addiction will vary according to several factors, including the length of the history of alcohol abuse, the amount of alcohol consumed on a regular basis, the person’s general state of health, gender, and age.  Depending on these factors, the withdrawal phase experienced will be one of three levels of severity: mild, moderate, or severe.

Withdrawal symptoms will begin to emerge about 6-12 hours following the last drink consumed.  Symptoms will peak on days 2 and 3, and then begin to subside gradually over the next several days.  Psychological symptoms, such as depression and anxiety, may persist for weeks.

Mild withdrawal symptoms:

  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal distress
  • Agitation
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting
  • Heart palpitations
  • Tremors
  • Loss of appetite
  • Mood swings

Moderate withdrawal symptoms:

  • Sweating
  • Irregular heart rate
  • Irritability
  • Mood disturbances
  • High blood pressure
  • Increased body temperature
  • Heightened respiration rate
  • Confusion

Severe withdrawal symptoms: Delirium Tremens (DTs)

  • Fever
  • Hallucinations
  • Extreme confusion
  • Agitation
  • Seizures

Depression and insomnia are commonly experienced at all levels of withdrawals from alcohol detox.

Psychological Effects of Alcohol Detox and Withdrawal

In addition to the collection of physical withdrawal effects that accompany alcohol detox and withdrawal, there are also psychological effects that can emerge. This provides yet another reason for undergoing alcohol detox under the supervision of a medically trained detox specialist. When these psychological symptoms occur they can be so distressing that the individual may want to give up on detox entirely. Having the in-home detox nurse available offers the emotional support that is so critical in achieving a successful detox and withdrawal result.

Some of the psychological symptoms experienced during detox include:

  • Anxiety
    Intense feelings of agitation and irritability
  • Depression
    Feelings of low mood, fatigue, slowed motor and cognitive functioning
  • Hallucinations
    Hallucinations may be auditory and/or visual
  • Delusions
    Delusions, or a departure from reality, indicate the delirium tremens

Depression and insomnia are commonly experienced at all levels of withdrawals from alcohol detox.

Tips to Ease Withdrawal Symptoms at Home

During a medical alcohol detox, the detox nurse is trained, equipped and skilled at how to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms at home.  The main purpose of the detox nurse and other medical providers in the detox team is to provide comfort and support throughout the acute phase of the detox, or the first several days.  In addition to medications that will help manage many of the unpleasant side effects, including Naltrexone for curbing cravings, there are some other steps to take to ease withdrawal symptoms.  They include:

  • Stay well hydrated
  • Before detox, rid your home of all sources of alcohol and drugs
  • IV vitamin therapy
  • Stock kitchen with lean sources of protein, whole grain breads and pasta, fresh fruits and vegetables for when appetite returns
  • Yoga

Treatment To Follow Alcohol Detox

When making the decision to get professional help for an alcohol use disorder, it is important to plan for all phases of the treatment process. These include detox, addiction treatment, and continuing care. All phases must be planned for and adhered to for there to be a successful recovery result.

Some individuals make the mistake of assuming that one they have detoxed from alcohol they are done with treatment. Unfortunately, those who make this assumption soon learn why it is essential to get treatment for the disease. Alcoholism is a chronic, progressive, relapsing disease of the brain. Without making core shifts in the thought and behavior patterns that keep a person stuck in the cycle of addiction, they are bound to fail to maintain sobriety.

Once the in-home detox process is complete, it is time to transition into treatment. Treatment for an alcohol addiction or dependency is available in either an outpatient or inpatient setting:

  • Outpatient rehab
    Work and family obligations may necessitate an outpatient program, which allows the individual to remain engaged in daily activities while participating in a certain number of hours each week in addiction treatment. There are various levels of intensity in outpatient treatment programs, including basic outpatient therapy, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and partial hospitalization programs (PHP). The level of intensity is aligned with the severity of the alcohol use disorder.
  • Residential rehab
    A residential program is the best option for someone with a moderate to severe alcohol use disorder. These inpatient settings provide round-the-clock supervision and support, and a highly structured environment. The daily schedule is filled with a wide variety of therapeutic activities, creating a comprehensive treatment protocol.
    Treatment for alcoholism includes the following elements:
    • Psychotherapy. Therapy is the central focus of addiction treatment and is offered in both individual and group formats. Evidence-based therapies provide proven methods that have been extensively studied for efficacy. These therapies might include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and contingency management.
  • One-on-one therapy sessions allow for an intimate trust bond to be formed between the therapist and the client. The therapist can help the client to explore areas of emotional pain or past trauma that might be influencing the addiction behaviors. Group therapy is beneficial for encouraging peer support for individuals in addiction recovery. Group sessions allow the parties to share their own experiences and emotions related to the alcohol use disorder they share in common.
  • Addiction education and relapse prevention planning
    Rehabs offer classes to help educate clients about the effects of alcohol on the brain, and how it leads to chemical dependency. The clients will be taught various recovery skills to access when triggered to drink, and also to identify triggers in order to prepare a relapse prevention strategy.
  • Medication management (naltrexone) when indicated
    Some individuals with more serious alcohol use disorders may benefit from medication-assisted treatment (MAT). MAT helps to diminish cravings, which reduces the risk of relapse. Naltrexone is available as a patch, an injectable, or in pill form. The goal of utilizing MAT is to increase long-term sobriety to achieve a sustained recovery. After that is accomplished, the client will be tapered off the naltrexone.
  • Holistic Therapies
    Holistic therapies that help reduce stress. In recent years, many alcohol recovery programs have begun to include holistic or experiential activities to compliment the effects of therapy. Because stress is the most common cause of relapse, clients are taught these stress-reduction techniques and advised to incorporate them into their continuing care efforts after finishing the rehab program. These activities might include mindfulness meditation, massage therapy, yoga, acupuncture, art therapy, equine therapy, aromatherapy, and hypnotherapy. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are also important for restoring health in recovery.
  • 12-step or non-12-step programming
    Involvement in recovery community meetings is usually integrated into an alcohol rehab program. Although A.A.’s 12-step program is the most famous, there are other non-12-step communities available as well. The recovery communities provide inspiration and accountability, as well as a source of social support in recovery.

Continuing Care Measures for Alcohol Recovery

The final phase of alcohol addiction treatment involves the continuing care services that should be woven into the individual’s new sober lifestyle following the completion of rehab. Continuing care is essential in maintaining sobriety, especially in the early months of recovery when the individual is vulnerable to relapse.

Continuing care supportive activities include:

  • Ongoing outpatient therapy
    Individual or group therapy once or twice a week will provide the needed support when unforeseen life events or stressors challenge sobriety. Early recovery is a vulnerable time, when many experience feelings of loneliness or lack of confidence. Having a regular therapy appointment gives individuals an opportunity to receive ongoing guidance, which can help reinforce sobriety early on.
  • Active participation
    Active participation in a recovery community, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery, provides much needed social support. Also, these communities provide opportunities to get a sponsor, which can be very helpful in maintaining sobriety during the first year in recovery. In addition, recovery groups are excellent sources for making new sober friendships, as well as opportunities to serve others in the program.
  • Drug and Alcohol-Free Living Environment
    Sober living housing provides a drug and alcohol-free living environment as an added layer of support. A sober living home also offers peer support and accountability. A deterrent effect to relapse is one of the primary benefits of sober living, as the residents will be regularly drug and alcohol tested. Sober living homes have a zero tolerance policy.

Kinkaid Private Care Coordinates Medical Detox for Alcohol Withdrawals

If you or your loved one is in need of help with in-home alcohol detox, please reach out to us to see how we can help. Kinkaid Private Nursing Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client.

For more information, please visit our homepage and learn about the array of services we provide. These services include home detox throughout California, as well as in-home nursing care and the coordination of a variety of at-home medical services in the Los Angeles area. We also offer at-home Covid-19 testing.

FAQs

What are 3 things that can help with withdrawal symptoms?

Good quality sleep is a main focus of our program as this is crucial during your recovery. Additionally, proper hydration and nutrition are vital during any detox. Our nurse works with you individually to ensure you are properly hydrated and eating good nutritious meals.

Which medication has a greater advantage for treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome?

We use a combination of medications for your treatment plan based on your medical history. Connect one of our case managers today and we can discuss your customized treatment plan!

When do withdrawal symptoms go away?

Every person experiences withdrawal symptoms of varied severity and length of time can depend on your age and medical history. Together with our detox nurse and addiction specialist we will design a comprehensive treatment plan customized to you. We are here to support you every step of the way to keep you safe and comfortable.

What are typical alcohol withdrawal behaviors?

A person is likely to experience insomnia and sleeplessness, anxiety, irritability and may become very easily agitated. We work together to ease these symptoms and promote rest and healing while detoxing
at home.

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relaxing at home with tea

Home Detox in Pasadena

If you need to begin detox in the Los Angeles metro area, we recommend looking into home detox as an alternative to going to a treatment center or facility. In this article, we will discuss what home detox is, the benefits of home detox, and how you can detox from home with Kinkaid Private Care in Pasadena or anywhere in the Los Angeles area.

What is Home Detox?

Detox is the first step in the journey toward making a full recovery from a drug or alcohol addiction. After all, you must rid your body of all toxins associated with an addiction before beginning treatment. And this is exactly what detox does.

“Home detox” involves the same process as “regular” detox, but you are able to complete the process from the comfort of your home, instead of staying at a hospital to treatment center. With home detox, a detox nurse comes to your home and oversees the process, administers medication, and ensures your detox runs smoothly without you ever having to leave your house.

Why Detox From Home?

Detoxing from home has many advantages, including the following:

  • Complete Privacy: Seeing as detox is a medical process, it is always best to have as much privacy as possible. With home detox, you are able to begin your recovery in complete privacy. You will not have to deal with the hustle and bustle of a treatment center or hospital.
  • Maximum Comfort: As the detox process can be difficult, it is important to do what you can to increase your level of comfort whenever possible. And detoxing from home allows you to do just that. With home detox, you can receive your treatment from the comfort of your own home. You don’t have to worry about adjusting to an unfamiliar treatment center or facility.
  • More Attention & Personalized Care: If you detox at a treatment center or facility, you will be one of many patients, meaning doctors and nurses may not be able to give you the level of care you need. When you detox from home, however, you are the only patient, so you will receive more attention and completely customized care that meets your specific needs.

Detox From Home With Kinkaid in Pasadena

If you or your loved one is in need of home detox, please reach out to us to see how we can help. Kinkaid Private Nursing Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client.

For more information, please visit our homepage and learn about the array of services we provide. These services include home detox throughout California, as well as in-home nursing care and the coordination of a variety of at-home medical services in the Los Angeles area. We also offer at-home Covid-19 testing.

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Los Angeles skyline

Los Angeles Detox In Your Home

If you are in need of drug or alcohol detox to begin your recovery, we recommend looking into home detox, as it allows you to fully detox in a safe and comfortable environment. In this article, we will discuss what detox is, why you should consider home detox, and how you can receive home detox services in the Los Angeles metro area.

What is Detox?

Detox is the first step in the substance abuse recovery process and involves the physiological removal of toxic substances, such as drugs or alcohol, from the human body. Detox is required for any substance to which you have become physically addicted, such as alcohol, methamphetamine, cocaine, opiates, or more.

Detox comes with a variety of withdrawal symptoms that vary depending on the individual, the substance to which you are addicted, and the level of your addiction. While the process is never easy, it is the necessary first step to any recovery.

Why Detox from Home?

While detox is not an easy process, there are ways you can alleviate some of the symptoms and discomfort that come with this important first step to recovery. One of the best ways to improve your detox experience is to complete your detox from the comfort of your own home. The following are just some of the key benefits of detoxing from home:

  • Maximum Privacy: It is always best to receive medical treatment with a sense of privacy, and detox is no different. As the symptoms of detox can be challenging and the idea of beginning treatment can be daunting, it is best to ensure you complete your treatment in complete privacy. Detoxing from home allows you to maintain complete privacy, as the only people you interact with will be your detox nurse and any friends or family you choose.
  • Increased Level of Comfort: In addition to creating a high level of privacy, detoxing from home allows you to complete your treatment in the comfort of your house. This means no traveling to and from a facility; no being overwhelmed by other patients; no busy hospitals or treatment centers; and no outside stress. You can work directly with your nurse to create a comfortable atmosphere at home.
  • More Personalized Care: If you detox at a treatment center or hospital, you will be one of many patients competing for the attention of doctors and nurses. However, if you detox from home, you will be the only patient in the “facility,” meaning you will receive more personalized and customized care.

How to Find Home Detox Services in Los Angeles

If you seek home detox services, we recommend doing your research to ensure you hire the care that is right for you. Find a care provider that takes the time to understand your specific goals and needs and is able to communicate effectively with you. To learn more, check out our article about the most important characteristics to look out for while searching for home detox care providers.

Detox at Home with Kinkaid in California:

If you or your loved one is in need of home detox, please reach out to us to see how we can help. Kinkaid Private Nursing Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client.

For more information, please visit our homepage and learn about the array of services we provide. These services include home detox throughout California, as well as in-home nursing care and the coordination of a variety of at-home medical services in the Los Angeles area. We also offer at-home Covid-19 testing.

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man working while undergoing executive home detox

Executive Home Detox in Los Angeles

What is Executive Detox?

Executive detox has the same key objective as general detox: to rid the body of all toxins associated with an addiction so you can begin your road to recovery. The key difference between executive detox and regular detox is that the former involves a program that considers your need to continue working while undergoing detox.

Executive detox is best for busy professionals who cannot afford to stop working while undergoing their detox. The program is designed to allow you to continue many work functions while undergoing treatment.

Benefits of Executive Detox from Home

If you are looking for an executive detox program, we recommend looking into receiving your detox at home. There are many benefits to receiving executive detox at home, including the following:

  • Complete Privacy: Detoxing at home means detoxing with complete privacy because you are the only patient. Detox can be a stressful process, so help mitigate that stress by enjoying total privacy.
  • More Personalized Care: If you detox at a facility, you will be one of many patients to which doctors and nurses must attend. But if you detox from home, you are the only patient, so you can receive more personalized care and more attention from medical staff.
  • Increased Comfort and Safety: As mentioned above, detox is a stressful process. However, being able to receive treatment in the comfort of your home helps mitigate that stress and allows you to feel safer and be surrounded by family.
  • Better for Work: Because home detox allows you to receive more personalized care, it also allows you to more effectively plan for your work. You aren’t on anyone else’s schedule, so your nurses can plan your detox schedule around your work schedule.

How to Receive Executive Home Detox in California

If you or your loved one is in need of in home detox, please reach out to us to see how we can help. Kinkaid Private Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client.

For more information, please visit our homepage and learn about the array of services we provide. These services include home detox throughout California, as well as in-home nursing care and the coordination of a variety of at-home medical services in the Los Angeles area. We also offer at-home Covid-19 testing.

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