Overcoming any addiction is extremely challenging but is made even more difficult when having to combat dreaded withdrawal symptoms. Do be aware that you’re not alone in this struggle as there are millions of people around the world facing this battle every single day. The good news is that withdrawal can be aided with medicine and other approaches, so you’re able to tackle the worst of the withdrawal phase and get your life back on track as quickly as possible.
A lot of people turn back to addiction during a 48-hour period due to the severity of withdrawal symptoms, however, on average, it takes approximately 5-10 days for a full detox to run its course. The below tips should make the entire process much easier to deal with:
1. Over-the-counter medication
Withdrawal can severe consequences on your body’s function to the point where you may suffer side effects such as the likes of diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps and constant headaches. Using the appropriate quantity of over-the-counter medications can help you get through the worst of the pain and discomfort.
Loperamide (Imodium) is known to aid relief from diarrhea, while meclizine (Antivert) reduces nausea. Aches and pains throughout the body are also common, but most specifically headaches, which can be treated with general painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol.
2. NSS-2 Bridge Device
As mentioned, it can be very difficult for people to get over the initial 48-hour hurdle during the withdrawal process and often give up over this short period, while others refrain from trying to beat addiction for the fear of what withdrawal may bring.
The invention of the NSS-2 Bridge Device is a non-narcotic FDA-approved device which provides a humane and comfortable way to detox. The individual wears a plastic shell containing a small computer chip behind the ear which sends signals to the nerve endings that go on to receive pain-arresting messages. Within 5-30 minutes, you should start to notice your withdrawal symptoms fading away.
3. A detox facility
Rather than going through the withdrawal alone, which be quite dangerous, it would be wise to research a local detox facility. Here, you’ll remain under the supervision of a professional team who are trained to keep you safe and secure while giving you expert advice on managing your withdrawal symptoms. Going through any form of detox is never pleasant, so being around those who are used to dealing with the ups and downs of withdrawal can really make a difference in your recovery success.
4. Try holistic methods
Acupuncture and massage therapy has been proven to alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal. During both forms of therapy, the muscles are manipulated to reduce tension and specific areas of pain.
Acupuncture involves setting needles into the skin to enhance circulation and blood flow for a boost in overall health and wellbeing.
A study carried out by Dalhousie University discovered that therapeutic massage aids withdrawal-related anxiety and encourages relaxation which goes on to have an impact on the brain’s chemistry.
When we experience pleasure, a chemical is released in the body known as dopamine. Addictions are triggered when large amounts of dopamine are released to the point where our body becomes dependent on it. When you’re going through withdrawal, the amount of dopamine in the brain significantly decreases which stimulates those dreaded side effects. Massaging helps increase the level of dopamine steadily and is, therefore, a safe method of combatting withdrawal side effects.
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