Post-Acute Withdrawal Management in Brighton, MI

Most recovering drug and alcohol users know that the recovery process is no easy road. That's especially true in the first few days and weeks of recovery as individuals encounter difficult physical symptoms as soon as they stop using a substance. Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) occurs as the brain begins to reset after addiction and typically produces uncomfortable physical sensations and unpleasant emotions, like mood swings, depression, and more. Episodes of post-acute withdrawal syndrome can occur suddenly and without warning. At Revival Recovery Center, family nurse practitioner Lisa Perna provides medical recovery assistance to help manage PAWS symptoms and prevent relapse. If you or someone you know are facing PAWS or related addiction issues, please reach out to our office in Brighton, MI to get the support you need.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) treatment at Revival Recovery offers a number of benefits to help patients achieve success in their recovery from drugs and/or alcohol. These benefits include:

• Offering customizable treatment options
• Reducing physical withdrawal symptoms
• Moderating mood swings and emotional side-effects
• Increasing effectiveness of treatment and counseling
• Supporting treatment program retention

Any patient that has ceased using drugs and/or alcohol and gone through the initial withdrawal phase but is still experiencing withdrawal-like symptoms is a good candidate for PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome) treatment. In many cases, withdrawal symptoms subside after 2 – 3 weeks. However, patients experiencing PAWS may have withdrawal-like symptoms for up to two years. If you are in recovery and struggling with withdrawal symptoms, contact Revival Recovery today to learn how we can treat your PAWS symptoms and help you achieve your recovery goals.

The first phase of stopping drugs or alcohol is known as acute withdrawal, which can present as flu-like symptoms that last for 1 – 2 weeks after drug use has ceased, typically during detoxification. After that, post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) sets in and can last up to two years. Symptoms of PAWS include irritability, mood swings, depression, low energy, brain fog, insomnia, obsessive thoughts, anxiety, lack of impulse control, and chronic pain. While PAWS is a temporary condition, even the most committed individuals may relapse if the symptoms are not properly managed. Because post-acute withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person, your individual treatment plan will be created based on your specific symptoms and needs and may include counseling, community support and/or medication-assisted treatment. The goal is to provide addiction support to equip you for a successful recovery.

What does PAWS mean in recovery?

PAWS stands for Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome. Sometimes, after a person struggling with addiction is sober and in recovery, they may experience persistent withdrawal symptoms that can last for months or even years.

What are common withdrawal symptoms?

Symptoms of withdrawal will vary depending on the type of drug and the person’s unique physiology. Withdrawal symptoms often mirror flu-like symptoms and may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle cramps
• Profuse sweating
• Runny nose
• Tearing eyes
• Hot and cold flashes
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Sleep problems
• Mood swings

How long do withdrawal side effects last?

Typically, withdrawal symptoms will subside after 10 - 14 days, with the most severe symptoms often experienced within the first 36 - 72 hours after getting sober. If someone is experiencing PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome), the effects may last for months and even up to two years.

The first phase of recovery may be uncomfortable, but every stride toward progress is a step in the right direction. If you have a substance use disorder, our caring professionals provide management for post-acute withdrawal syndrome and can help you get on the path to long-term sobriety. We offer addiction recovery medicine in a caring environment.  Please schedule an appointment at our recovery center in Brighton, MI.