Ambulatory detoxification is an outpatient detoxification program option for people who have a comparatively mild-to-moderate history of abuse in either length, intensity of substance used or frequency with which the substance was abused. Detoxification can be defined as a process of cleansing drugs, alcohol or other toxic or addictive substances from the body. 

This process is made more difficult, however, by withdrawal symptoms that occur chemically in the body as a result of the removal of the substance. This can endanger the long-term success of the person seeking freedom from addiction. For this reason, ambulatory detox is often accompanied by medical intervention to ease the side effects of substance withdrawal. It is also important to have a strong system in place to aid in navigating these challenging side effects, so in more demanding cases, extensive onsite monitoring may be necessary. 

While inpatient detoxification programs provide meticulous professional supervision and comprehensive support, outpatient programs offer increased flexibility and freedom for the patient to continue in their ordinary daily routine throughout their treatment. With proper support protocols in place, outpatient recovery programs can be highly efficacious options for those wishing to make a change who may not enjoy the circumstantial freedom to place life on hold for an extended period. 

Warning Signs and Symptoms

Perhaps you or your loved one have been struggling with drug or alcohol use for some time, and you are wondering if you need to take things more seriously. How do you know when it may be appropriate to take further action? Here are some signs that indicate when ambulatory detox is needed.

Your tolerance to the substance is increasing. 

This is a sign that the addiction is worsening. Tolerance increase is the result of your body acclimating to the addictive substance in such a way that requires greater quantities or increased frequency of use to achieve the same effect. 

You are experiencing intense cravings or withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal refers to negative side effects experienced as a result of the absence of the addictive substance in the body. These can include but are not limited to: 

• Headaches
• Mood swings
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sweating 
• Body aches 
• Tremors
• Loss of appetite 
• Increased heart rate
• Fever
• Anxiety

You have made an effort to reduce or cease substance use in the past, and failed.

If you have had the conscious realization that your substance use has gone too far, and you made an effort to reduce or halt use accordingly, you should be proud of yourself. This is a major step in the right direction. Unfortunately, it is not always as simple as making a decision to quit and executing it. Additional support, medical intervention or strategy may be needed to achieve lasting success in addiction recovery.

You are noticing a behavior change around family and friends.

Our family and friends are oftentimes the people who know us best. That being said, it can be embarrassing to admit that you might be struggling with substance use. If you are finding yourself hiding your substance use, or are feeling ashamed to tell them that you are suffering, this might indicate that there is an issue at hand that needs to be brought to light.

Six Signs Ambulatory Detox May Be Right For You

The thought of entering an inpatient detoxification or rehabilitation program may seem daunting for someone in the throes of a busy life raising small children, fulfilling job demands or simply managing their personal affairs. Outpatient treatment plans such as ambulatory detox may be a more accessible option for anyone who is seeking to take steps toward addiction recovery, without abandoning their daily commitments entirely. Here are some factors to consider when exploring whether ambulatory detox is right for you. 

• You have a stable home life and mental state.

Ambulatory detox is most successfully implemented when the individual has a stable home life and support system in place. Factors such as homelessness, abusive relationships, psychiatric instability or lack of transportation may hurt what otherwise could have been a successful treatment.

• You have had a shorter addiction duration.

Ambulatory detox is best suited to those who have had a relatively short battle with addiction. Those who struggle with long-term chronic addiction may be better suited to a more intensive rehabilitation plan.

• You have a history of using substances of milder intensity, or less frequently. 

People who have a history of very intense or frequent substance use may not be candidates for ambulatory detox, as they may need more intensive care. Consult with a qualified provider to determine if you are eligible for this form of treatment.

• You have access to transportation.

Treatment consistency is a very important factor in successful ambulatory detox, and that can be largely impacted by access to transportation. Candidates should have their means of reliable transport, or have a network of support who can provide that for them regularly.

• You can follow directions.

Compliance is an essential component of successful treatment. There is an increased level of patient responsibility in ambulatory detox, and the individual must be willing to abide by treatment protocol.

• You do not have a history of extreme withdrawal symptoms. 

While withdrawal symptoms cannot always be predicted, it is very important to report any former experiences in detail. This will assist the medical practitioner responsible for designing treatment to plan accordingly to best support the patient through the rehabilitation process.

If you or your loved one meets these qualifications, ambulatory detoxification may be a suitable treatment option for your recovery journey. 

Ambulatory Detox Ohio

The best way to ensure progress in your healing journey is to start today. If you or a loved one are seeking help, the professionals at the state-of-the-art Pyramid Healthcare Dayton facility are here for you. Contact us to take your first step towards a new tomorrow.