Heroin addiction carries many harmful consequences. As a highly addictive and potent opiate, heroin takes a server toll on the body and mind. Thus, many who are struggling with heroin addiction long to make a recovery. However, one of the most common and frequent reasons individuals avoid or put off seeking the addiction treatment they need is a fear of heroin withdrawal symptoms. Abruptly stopping heroin use can result in major physical as well as mental health issues. In fact, heroin withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening when endured in isolation or without professional support like that offered at Tides Edge Detox. But detoxing from heroin is the first step toward recovering from an addiction.
Because heroin withdrawal symptoms can be severe, detoxing under medical supervision is the safest way to combat potential complications. Withdrawal symptoms can cause dehydration, pain, tremors, digestive issues, and depression. Vomiting, cramps, and insomnia are also common withdrawal symptoms, all of which can make recovering from heroin addiction difficult.
Do you need a heroin detox center? Call us today at 866.723.3127 for more information.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
Long-term heroin use can cause physical dependency. In fact, because the drug is so potent, even one-time use can alter brain chemistry and cause dependency. Physical dependence means that your body will experience physical symptoms if you stop or significantly decrease heroin use. These symptoms can be severe.
Not only can withdrawal symptoms include physical symptoms, but they can also greatly impact your mental and emotional health. It’s common for individuals with a substance use disorder to develop a mental health issue such as an anxiety disorder or depression. Some individuals are also struggling with these and other mental health issues and then turn to substances to help them manage their condition. Unfortunately, this only worsens one’s mental health and vastly increases the risk of addiction.
Some of the most common heroin withdrawal symptoms include:
- Cramping and restless legs
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
Prolonged dehydration can be caused by vomiting and diarrhea and more serious complications requiring medical intervention. In some cases, dehydration during heroin withdrawal is so severe that patients receive intravenous fluids in a hospital. Vomiting can also worsen dehydration, especially if you are unable to hold down water. Dehydration can impact your pulse, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Withdrawal from heroin can clearly cause a number of extremely uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms. While most people will not experience life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, some people may be at risk for serious complications or even death. If you or someone you know is struggling with heroin addiction, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible to avoid the potentially deadly consequences of withdrawal.
Treating Heroin Withdrawal
Remember, going “cold turkey” is not a suggested detox option. It is best to seek medical treatment if you are planning or experiencing heroin withdrawal. Medically assisted heroin withdrawal can help protect against potentially serious complications. Medically assisted detox programs provide medication-assisted withdrawal, with some programs offering short and long-term Suboxone or Methadone maintenance. Other medications can also be used to treat insomnia and cramps.
Medications are essential for patients who also suffer from co-occurring disorders because withdrawal can impact brain chemistry. Mental health medication dosages might have to be adjusted because of how withdrawal symptoms interact with brain chemistry.
Some of the most popular ways to treat heroin withdrawal symptoms include:
- Suboxone and Methadone taper
- Clonidine
- Vitamin B&C supplements
- Drinking 2-3 liters of water daily
- Codeine Phosphate
- Adequate rest
Overall, heroin withdrawal symptoms begin 8-24 hours after the last use and can last up to 10 days. Longer-acting opiates, like methadone, can also cause withdrawal symptoms for as long as 20 days.
Finding a heroin detox center in Jacksonville, FL, is an important first step towards recovery and optimizes your ability to combat heroin withdrawal symptoms safely.
Find Help and Treatment at Tides Edge Detox
At Tides Edge Detox, we understand that the thought of enduring heroin withdrawal symptoms can be daunting. Our professional and compassionate detox staff are here to provide around-the-clock care and support to help you through the detox process as comfortably as possible. We offer a variety of holistic and evidence-based therapies and treatments to address the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of heroin addiction and withdrawal. Our goal is to help you detox safely and comfortably so that you can begin your journey toward lasting recovery.
Discover the right treatment center to provide a safe, medical detox while treating heroin withdrawal symptoms is the first step towards recovery. Not only do we offer heroin addiction treatment but programs for other substance use disorders, such as:
- Alcohol detox
- Bath salts detox
- Benzo detox
- Cocaine detox
- Fentanyl detox
- Methamphetamine detox
- Opiate detox
- Opioid detox
- Prescription drug detox
If you or a loved one are struggling with heroin addiction, please reach out to us today. We are here to help you through every step of the detox and recovery process. Call Tides Edge Detox Center today at 866.723.3127, or contact us online for more information about substance abuse treatment.
