Delirium tremens is the most severe form of alcohol withdrawal. It can be life-threatening without immediate medical attention. If you have relied on heavy or long-term alcohol use and suddenly quit drinking, there’s a very real risk you’ll develop this condition. That’s why you should never attempt to detoxify without professional help.
What Is Delirium Tremens?
Delirium tremens typically occurs in people who have been drinking heavily for several weeks, months, or years and suddenly stop or drastically reduce their alcohol intake. This condition is a medical emergency that usually develops 48 to 72 hours after the last drink, though it can sometimes emerge up to a week later.
Symptoms of delirium tremens may include:
- Severe confusion and disorientation
- Agitation or irritability
- Visual, auditory, or tactile hallucinations
- Fever and profuse sweating
- Seizures
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
- Tremors
- Delusions
Without immediate intervention, delirium tremens can lead to heart complications, respiratory failure, and even death.
Why At-Home Alcohol Detox Is Dangerous
While some people believe it is more comfortable or approachable to quit drinking “cold turkey” at home, doing so can be extremely dangerous if you have developed a physical dependence on alcohol. Unlike withdrawal from some other substances, alcohol withdrawal can result in seizures, cardiac events, or other severe health complications that escalate quickly.
Delirium tremens is unpredictable and requires intensive care. If you begin to experience symptoms at home without medical supervision, there may not be enough time to get help before the situation becomes life-threatening. Additionally, the disorientation that accompanies this condition may leave you unable to make wise choices to protect your well-being.
Medically Supervised Detox Is the Safest Option
Medically supervised detox is the safest and most effective way to manage alcohol withdrawal. Global Medical Detox specializes in treating clients who are at risk of severe complications like delirium tremens. Our location within Menifee Global Medical Center offers immediate access to hospital-level care in a safe environment.
Our professional team provides:
- 24/7 monitoring of vital signs and withdrawal symptoms
- Prescription medications to reduce the risk of seizures, hallucinations, and cardiovascular distress
- Individualized treatment plans based on your medical history and severity of use
- 1-to-5 nurse-to-patient ratio to ensure personalized attention and high-quality care, mitigating discomfort and anxiety
- Smooth transition to further treatment or rehabilitation once you are stable
Your Safety Is Our Priority
At-home detox can be unsafe if you have a history of long-term, heavy alcohol use. People at risk of delirium tremens should always choose to undergo detox under the care of qualified professionals.
Global Medical Detox is the ideal place to begin recovering. Our hospital-based team of experts is here to keep you safe, comfortable, and supported every step of the way. Don’t take unnecessary risks with your health. Contact us today to learn more about our medically supervised detox program.
