Even if you do not currently know anyone suffering from addiction, hearing the word “heroin” probably gets your attention. Heroin is widely known as one of the most addictive drugs in existence. For those struggling with a heroin addiction, it can be impossible to get clean on their own, especially without a heroin detox program. If you suspect a loved one may have a drug addiction, the best thing to do is to try and get them to help with a rehab program that treats heroin addiction. First, you’ll want to be able to recognize the symptoms of heroin withdrawal because the longer a person is addicted to a drug like heroin, the worse the side effects and the harder it can be to get them into treatment.
When they are ready to go into treatment, you will not have to spend a long time searching for help because My Recovery Source has a national network of addiction treatment centers and programs that can help with your loved one’s heroin addiction. We understand just how dangerous a drug like heroin is, and we have the partnerships and resources you need to find lasting support for you or your loved one’s addiction. We are your #1 destination for personalized addiction help, so don’t wait; let us get started helping you today.
What Kind of Drug is Heroin?
Before you understand the symptoms of heroin withdrawal and the signs of heroin abuse, it helps to know what type of drug heroin is and why it is so addictive in the first place.
Heroin is a white or brown powder that is derived from the seed of one of the various types of poppy plants. Poppy plants are native to areas like Mexico and parts of Asia and Colombia. The poppy has been used for medicinal properties for centuries, but heroin was discovered in modern times and, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, is classified as an opioid.
You’ve probably heard of opioids due to the opioid epidemic that America is still dealing with. Opioids are powerful pain-relieving medications that are prescribed on a regular basis for control of both chronic and acute pain. While heroin is in this category, it was made illegal because of the highly addictive potential of the drug and the side effects, such as hallucinations and euphoria that it produces. Heroin is also able to be mixed with other substances to become even more potent but also more damaging and even potentially deadly if used too much.
This is why, even among opioids, heroin is considered one of the strongest and easiest to become addicted to.
What Are the Symptoms of Opioid Withdrawal?
Heroin has a very short time in which withdrawal can begin. In some people, heroin withdrawal begins as soon as 8 hours after stopping use. The range of time that withdrawal can start is 8 to 24 hours, with withdrawal lasting anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on multiple factors such as usage history, method of use, and time addicted.
Symptoms that a person may experience if they are going through withdrawal include:
- Flu-like symptoms
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Chills/Sweating
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Muscle and joint pain
- Excessive restlessness
- Severe abdominal cramps
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Paranoia
- Mood swings
These symptoms can come and go throughout the entire time a person is withdrawing and may be worse, depending on the individual. One reason that heroin withdrawal is so dangerous is that it can compound with existing health issues to create a serious health concern that may require medical attention. This is one of the primary reasons why it is never a good idea to stop using cold turkey or to try and detox alone.
My Recovery Source Can Help Find the Heroin Addiction Treatment You Need
Whether this is your first time going to rehab or your 10th, or you have a loved one that has tried to get sober and failed, we have the resources ready and waiting to help you get the right kind of treatment to get and stay sober.
We work with a national network, so whether you want something close to home or a bit further away, we have treatment options to meet all your needs. Contact us today to find the best rehab center for your needs.
