Many clients also continue with addiction treatment programs with us after withdrawal and detox conclude, for more ongoing support. At Purpose, we give our clients tools to help them overcome benzo addiction even after leaving our facility. During the earliest stages of benzo withdrawal, most people experience sleeplessness, irritability, and anxiousness. If you are taking short-acting benzodiazepines, this can start hours after your last dose. The anxiety and panic that sets in as part of benzo withdrawal can make it tempting to relapse during this early period. There are other things you can do to ease the symptoms of “benzo belly.” These include daily exercise, spending time in the sun, and getting plenty of sleep.
After a few weeks of regular use, the brain can stop producing these chemicals naturally. Keep in mind, these may alleviate the symptoms of bloating but likely won’t completely treat the source of the condition. As benzo use continues, your body stops producing these brain chemicals naturally.
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People using a benzodiazepine medication chronically should speak with their doctor abouttapering off the medication. A slow taper is usually the best option to help prevent withdrawal symptoms. People using benzodiazepines like Xanax and Klonopin without a prescription should consider speaking to an addiction professional to talk abouttreatment options. Lastly, the protracted phase can last for several months or even years after your last dose. You may experience tingling in your arms and legs, prolonged anxiety and insomnia, cognitive defects, and depression. These symptoms can come and go – sometimes you will go months without a sign, and then they come back.
Because these drugs have slow elimination rates, it minimizes your withdrawal symptoms. If you are prescribed benzos, it’s vital to speak to your doctor before stopping. If you are taking benzos without a prescription, you should talk to an addiction center like Discovery Institute for treatment options. A multitude of complications can arise from the abrupt withdrawal of benzodiazepines, many of which require hospital admission. Benzo belly can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life. Symptoms can lead to a marked decrease in daily functioning and well-being.
If you’re seeking addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper is here to help. Our facility is conveniently located within the heart of New Jersey, under 20 minutes from Philadelphia. We have a full range of treatment options, including medical detox, inpatient care, partial hospitalization programming and intensive outpatient services. We offer a state-of-the-art inpatient facility and have specialized options for trauma, including EMDR and a specialty track for veterans and first responders. The onset of withdrawal symptoms typically begins between 2 and 24 hours after cessation of benzodiazepines.
Medical Interventions for Benzo Belly
For some people, these symptoms last for several weeks to months during the acute withdrawal phase. Gastrointestinal symptoms can persist for even years after stopping benzos completely. These changes persist until the body can restore its natural GABA function. You don’t have to face the pain of benzodiazepine addiction or withdrawal alone. Our expert benzodiazepine treatment services help minimize the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and guide your body through the recovery process. At Discovery Institute, our comprehensive programs address all addiction and mental health struggles.
The Effects of Benzos on Your Body and Brain
It will be easier to avoid benzo use when underlying conditions like these are being managed. If you are dealing with benzodiazepine withdrawal at home, or if you are still experiencing symptoms after detox and rehab, the right strategies can help. Benzo belly describes the gastrointestinal problems that are common after you stop taking benzos. Even if you are prescribed benzodiazepines, it can be helpful to attend rehab during the withdrawal process. Our state-specific resource guides offer a comprehensive overview of drug and alcohol addiction treatment options available in your area.
Some claim that one’s diet or particular foods help ease symptoms, and this probably varies from person to person. All benzodiazepines can cause mild (or not-so-mild) temporary histamine tolerance issues. However, Valium is often the most offensive as it impairs the body’s ability to create DAO, an enzyme that naturally breaks down histamine. The FHE Health team is committed to providing accurate information that adheres to the highest standards of writing. This is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure FHE Health is trusted as a leader in mental health and addiction care. A theory that’s becoming more prominent in the scientific community explores the connection between the stomach, the GI tract and the brain.
Work with healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive diet plan that supports your recovery outcomes. Ardu develops personalized plans to guide you toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Our detox services include nutritional therapy to replenish essential nutrients, strengthen your body, and support what is benzo belly healing during withdrawal. According to a 2021 study, GABA receptors are also found throughout your entire digestive tract in what’s called the enteric nervous system, your gut’s own neural network. When you’re taking benzodiazepines regularly, this system becomes dependent on the artificial GABA stimulation to function properly.
Drug & Alcohol Rehab in Edison Township, NJ
- Our Compassionate counselors are standing by to answer any questions you may have.
- Therapies such as yoga, acupuncture, and mindfulness can build mental strength to power through the discomfort and pain.
- Medication-assisted treatment is used in combination with other therapies such as psychotherapy and behavioral therapies.
- Medical attention is necessary when tolerance develops, often necessitating gradual tapering protocols.
Don’t wait— reach out today to take the first step toward taking control of your life. It can be a dangerous and difficult process to withdraw from benzos. Besides insomnia being common, you may have headaches and tremors the first week. For example, prolonged use of benzos for anxiety can make your anxiety worse.
- While tolerance does fade, it’s a gradual process that varies from person to person, and complete healing of your brain’s natural chemical balance takes time.
- Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary guidance.
- A theory that’s becoming more prominent in the scientific community explores the connection between the stomach, the GI tract and the brain.
- During benzo detox at Purpose in our medically supervised detox setting, certain prescription drugs may be recommended to relieve symptoms of withdrawal.
- Benzodiazepine tolerance typically diminishes over time, but the process requires patience.
It can be demonstrated through the concept of having a “gut feeling.” This is the sensation you sometimes get in your stomach about what’s right or wrong. As it turns out, this may be more than an idiomatic expression — it may be rooted in real science. If you or a loved one are ready to begin the journey toward a substance-free life, we’re standing by to take your call. Reach out to our Recovery Advocates to learn more about our treatment programs and find a plan that works well for your specific needs and situation.
This integrated approach offers a safer detox experience and creates a solid foundation for lasting recovery. Visit our admissions process page, and contact our admissions team for more information. People who use benzodiazepines forlonger than four to six weeksare at the greatest risk of developing a tolerance that leads to addiction. “Benzo belly” symptoms may include alternating diarrhea and constipation.
We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Benzo belly is a potential side effect of benzodiazepine medications that can manifest as a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating, constipation, nausea and indigestion. While the duration of symptoms can vary, they may persist for weeks or months after stopping benzodiazepine treatment.
Effective Lifestyle Changes for Managing Benzo Belly
Benzo belly refers to a constellation of gastrointestinal symptoms that are commonly experienced during withdrawal from benzodiazepines. This is a class of drugs primarily used to manage anxiety and seizures. These medications function by enhancing the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This suppresses neural activity, resulting in soothing and calming effects. However, with prolonged use, dependence on these drugs can develop.
Putting a stop to your benzo use will improve your day-to-day life, but the withdrawal process will need to be a slow taper closely monitored by a doctor. Benzo Belly is often accompanied by psychological symptoms that can be distressing and impact an individual’s mental well-being. These symptoms result from the body’s adjustment to the absence of the benzodiazepine medication and the brain’s attempt to reestablish normal neurotransmitter function. Establishing a consistent exercise regimen helps improve gastrointestinal function and stress management.