There are many drugs that cause addictions, and they can all be dangerous to health, but heroin is one of the deadliest. The opioid is known to produce a euphoric state that makes it highly addictive, and the fact that it is injected adds to its ability to pose health hazards. This article will talk about the drug and answer the question, why is heroin so dangerous?
What is Heroin?
Heroin is an opioid drug that is extracted from poppy plants, found in parts of Asia, Mexico, and Columbia. It is sold as a white or brown powder, and it’s also available as a black sticky substance called black tar heroin. It can be injected, inhaled, smoked, or snorted. It can also be mixed with crack cocaine making for a dangerous practice called speedballing.
When heroin enters the body, it binds to opioid receptors in the brain, blocking feelings of pain and creating the sensation of euphoria. The receptors it interacts with are also responsible for controlling sleeping, breathing, and heart rate.
What are the Signs of Heroin Use?
Because heroin is so dangerous, it’s important to determine if a loved one is using it. That way, you can take steps to get them help. Heroin symptoms to look out for include:
- Nodding out
- Pinned pupils
- Itchy and flushed skin
- Financial difficulties
- Disinterest in doing the things you once loved
- Withdrawal from society or changing the social groups you hang out with
- Legal troubles
- Engaging in dishonest and dangerous behavior
- Spending a lot of time acquiring and using the drug
- Troubled relationships
- Mood swings
- Lack of self-care
- Lack of motivation
- Weight loss
- Track marks on the arms and legs
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Disorientation
Can Heroin Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?
One of the reasons heroin is so addictive is because it causes heroin withdrawal.
The body becomes so used to having heroin in its system that it is unable to function when it is without the drug. It reacts by producing unpleasant symptoms including:
- Sweating
- Agitation
- Muscle spasm
- Abdominal pain
- Shaking
- Depression
- Cravings for the drug
The only way to get rid of these symptoms short term is to do more of the drug. This makes it difficult for individuals to recover.
Why is Heroin So Dangerous?
There are many reasons why heroin is so dangerous. These include the following:
It’s Likely to Cause Overdose: Many people that use heroin end up dying from an overdose. In fact, more than 14,000 Americans died of a heroin overdose in 2019 alone.
It’s Injectable: Many people inject heroin. This can cause veins to collapse. It also means that users share needles, increasing the risk of spreading diseases like HIV and hepatitis.
It Can Be Mixed with Impure Substances: Heroin is mainly a street drug, therefore sold illegally and without regulation. As such, dealers and manufacturers often mix it with impure substances like starch, sugar, and powdered milk that can clog blood vessels and permanently damage the lungs, liver, kidneys, or brain.
It Leads to Dangerous Behavior: Heroin makes people let their guard down. This can cause them to drive intoxicated and engage in other sorts of dangerous behavior. Studies have shown that doing the drug long-term may cause a loss of the brain’s white matter, which affects behavior control, decision-making, and the ability to respond to stressful situations.
How to Find Heroin Addiction Treatment Programs
Heroin is highly dangerous, but fortunately, there are facilities that offer treatment. However, it’s not easy to find the center that’s right for you. You must consider the environment, the staff, the treatment offered, and other factors.
You can spend hours finding the perfect solution or saving yourself time by contacting My Recovery Source first. Whether looking for outpatient treatment programs or residential detox facilities, My Recovery Source can help you find the best possible treatment in your area.
My Recovery Source is a free resource specializing in helping people find the right recovery facility for them. They offer help regardless of a person’s income level, personal situation, and location. They can get you or a loved one the assistance you need.
Heroin is a dangerous drug to use. Don’t let it get in the way of your ability to enjoy optimal wellness. Contact My Recovery Source for the information you need to move on to a higher quality of life.
