In researching the complications associated with addiction and withdrawal from addiction, it became even more apparent how physically ill an individual can become due to their addiction. From untreated Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD), to HIV, to Hepatitis, to Cardiology and other physical issues where the list goes on and on, a persons addiction can mask the symptoms and illness, to the point they can not be reversed.

It is frightening to find that during a withdrawal phase of a program, that an individual has fallen into a diabetic coma, cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, experience grand mal seizures or other ailments, all related to their addiction. It happens though and this is the primary reason for having a medically supervised detoxification period. Even the healthiest and youngest of residents entering treatment can experience physical problems.

The Cedars recognizes the potential associated with addiction and withdrawal, and employs medically trained staff to begin the process of identifying any abnormalities or physical problems, before they become life threatening. We have to remember, that generally an addict has been using for years and may be masking symptoms associated with other life threatening diseases. We need to focus our attention on the potentials as well as the obvious and therefore, the information provided to our staff prior to admission into detox, is always helpful in determining the care designed for the resident - including family history.

Again, the complications associated with withdrawal are vast. The majority of time, a resident does not experience any additional problems. At The Cedars though, we do not take that risk and put our attention on providing a comprehensive evaluation of each individual entering our program.