Stopping heroin use will lead to withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms are often uncomfortable and can be dangerous when not supervised by trained professionals. Read more about the heroin withdrawal process to understand the signs, symptoms, and dangers.
Causes
Causes of Heroin Addiction Withdrawal
Known to be one of the most addictive substances in existence today, heroin is a powerful and illicit drug that can cause widespread destruction within a person’s life. Classified as an opioid, heroin is so potent that a person can become addicted to it even after just one use. When smoked, snorted, or injected, this substance induces intense feelings of euphoria and pleasure, which are the sensations that users strive to achieve with each use. Unfortunately, because those who abuse heroin can develop a tolerance for this drug, individuals must consume more of it in order to experience the desired high. The more often a person abuses heroin, especially when it is in higher doses each time, the more likely that individual is to develop a merciless addiction to this perilous drug.
When a person develops an addiction to heroin, he or she has also likely become physically dependent on this drug. Physical dependence, better known as chemical dependence, means that an individual’s body has become accustomed to the presence of heroin and requires it in order function. This aspect of heroin addiction is by-and-large what contributes to the onset of withdrawal symptoms should an individual stop his or her use of this substance.
The withdrawal process occurs when a person is no longer abusing heroin, and includes a variety of physical and psychological effects that can be distressing. Without the presence of heroin after an addiction to this drug has formed, an individual’s body will work to readjust in order to function without the substance. This process can be uncomfortable, painful, and even life-threatening if it is not supervised by a trained professional, which is why a person should consider seeking treatment in order to end a heroin addiction once and for all.
Signs
Signs of Heroin Addiction Withdrawal
If it is suspected that a loved one is grappling with a heroin addiction, it could be helpful to take note of any apparent withdrawal symptoms if the individual is not able to continuing using heroin. Keep in mind, however, that some symptoms may not be so obvious.
If you notice that your loved one is presenting with any of the following symptoms, he or she is likely experiencing withdrawal because he or she is addicted to heroin:
- Runny nose
- Overpowering cravings for heroin
- Sweating
- Mood changes, including depression and anxiety
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Bone pain
- Hypothermia (or drastically low body temperature)
- Unresponsiveness or lapsing into a coma
- Fever
- Poor appetite
- Muscle cramping / aches / pain
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Slowed or shallowed breathing
Should you observe the above signs, it is imperative that emergency medical care be sought. Even if a person’s symptoms do not appear to be severe, it is possible that they could indicate a more serious problem or become worse.
Why Seek Treatment?
Why Seek Treatment for Heroin Addiction at The Camp Recovery Center
An addiction to heroin can bring about numerous adverse effects that could be life-threatening. Health concerns could emerge, the risk of overdose looms, and the possibility of experiencing additional detriments is high when a chemical dependency concern of this kind is a factor in a person’s life, including withdrawal. For these reasons and more, it is important for an individual struggling with a heroin abuse problem to consider seeking treatment as soon as possible.
A person who is experiencing withdrawal symptoms is likely struggling with a heroin addiction. These symptoms can be so overwhelming that they can drive a person back to the abuse of this substance. Failing to seek treatment for a heroin addiction can also result in the worsening of the individual’s dependence on heroin, and, as it has been stated, increase the likelihood of an overdose. However, by engaging in treatment, these effects and the harm caused by heroin can be minimized.
There are many types of treatment that have helped countless men and women win the war against heroin addiction. Residential treatment, one of the most effective options for care that exists, features a variety of interventions that supply those grappling with a heroin abuse problem with the skills they need to recover. This level of care also includes detox services, which can help alleviate the effects of heroin withdrawal. Ultimately, by engaging in residential treatment with detox, men and women alike can refrain from the dangerous, ongoing use of heroin once and for all.
The Camp Recovery Center, a leading treatment center that offers both residential and detox services, is a renowned provider of care that has transformed the lives of adults of all ages. With proven effective interventions, a dedicated team of treatment professionals, and a mission to help men and women achieve the sober lives they deserve, The Camp Recovery Center is where lasting healing and recovery from heroin addiction can be achieved.
If you or a loved one would like to learn more about the programming offered at The Camp Recovery Center, feel free to call us today. Let us help you or someone you care about make the changes need to live a heroin-free and happy life.
