Alcohol Detox Facilities in California
Not everyone who drinks alcohol is an alcoholic, and not every alcoholic needs to undergo detox. However, for those who experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking, or who have severe cravings to continue drinking alcohol, medically supervised treatment at one of the many alcohol detox facilities in California is recommended.
Alcohol use floods the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, relaxing the body and reducing inhibitions. Constant drinking decreases the GABA transmitter response, which is why the user develops a tolerance and a craving for larger and larger doses to get the same relaxation effect. When the user stops drinking alcohol, the brain becomes hyperexcited, since it can no longer receive GABA. Irritability, tremors and seizures can result. Other withdrawal symptoms can include delirium tremens, which has up to a five percent mortality rate.
Medical supervision of detox can prevent severe reactions. Diarrhea, vomiting and excessive sweating disturb the electrolyte balance in the body, so fluids may need to be administered intravenously. A benzodiazepine such as Xanax or Valium may be prescribed to prevent seizures. Long-term effects of alcohol use, such as liver damage, may also need to be treated during detox.
Your Resource for Detox Facilities in California
At 12 Step National Meetings.com, we have compiled a listing of reputable detox facilities in California for you to use. Some of these treatment centers focus only on alcoholism, while others treat dual or multiple diagnoses. You can also use our filters to select a treatment center that specializes in a specific type of client, to find a treatment center in your area, or to select a facility that will work with you to set up a payment plan.