Quitting Cold Turkey: 5 Dangers of an At-Home Detox

1. Higher Likelihood of Relapse 

At-home detox results in a higher likelihood of relapse. Withdrawal symptoms can be especially hard to deal with and may even become so overwhelming that patients cannot resist the temptation to resort to their substance of choice.

What makes this even more dangerous is that in their vulnerable state, they may ingest more of the substance than they would otherwise, and overdose.

2. Change in Body Chemistry and Overdose Risk

Detoxing removes the substances from your body. This results in changes in body chemistry and reduced tolerance to drugs or alcohol.

Your usual dose may have been fine before, but during detox, it can be fatal. Since your tolerance is greatly reduced, relapse isn’t just dangerous – it can be deadly.

3. Painful Withdrawal Symptoms 

Withdrawal is one of the worst parts of detoxing and can result in painful symptoms. Up to 30% of people detoxing from sedatives without treatment have a grand mal seizure.

Those suffering from alcohol withdrawal syndrome can develop delirium tremens, which has a 5% mortality rate.

4. Medical Issues and Complications 

In addition to current medical conditions flaring up, underlying conditions can make the problem significantly worse.

Chronic medical conditions can cause further complications and the detox period is especially painful and hard.

5. Compromised Mental Health

Going through detox is anything but easy. In addition to taking a toll on your physical health, it can be devastating for your mental health.

At-home detox without support and treatment can result in worsening existing mental health conditions and symptoms like depression, frustration, exhaustion, and panic.

Additionally, those opting for at-home detox may suffer from irritability, anxiety, delusional thinking, hallucinations, and paranoia.

Some individuals suffer from suicidal thoughts and may even try to harm themselves when in this state. 

Pathways Recovery Centers Can Help You Detox Safely and Comfortably 

Quitting cold turkey has a significant impact on your body and mind.

With so many dangers associated with at-home detox, there’s no question that this important process should be done in a controlled environment where experts can help you through your detox journey.

Your safety comes first, which is why this is an essential consideration. 

If you or a loved one is interested in addiction recovery and sober life, Pathways Recovery Centers can help.

Our 24/7 medically monitored inpatient detoxification program can help you regain control over your life.

Addiction specialists and experts will help you every step of the way and ensure your detox journey is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.

Reach out to us for additional information at 1-888-744-6597 or contact us here.