Heroin Addiction Treatment

Heroin abuse can have far-reaching effects on a person’s life and well-being. Unfortunately, many people who develop addictions to illicit drugs don’t get the help they need to fully recover. Proper heroin addiction treatment is an essential element in breaking free from the harsh effects of this powerful drug. However, what is heroin? What are the common signs of heroin abuse? Moreover, what is involved in heroin addiction treatment?

What is Heroin?

In fact, heroin is a potent opioid drug that is made out of morphine. Although morphine is a strong painkiller that comes from the natural poppy plant, heroin takes this substance and chemically alters it to form a new drug. In a similar way to other common opioid drugs, heroin has an immediate effect on the opioid receptors in the brain. As a result, it creates pleasurable sensations and relief from ongoing pain. Unfortunately, these same pleasurable sensations and pain relief increase the risk of developing an addiction to heroin.

Signs of Heroin Abuse

In order to obtain successful heroin addiction treatment, you’ll need to detect the problem in the first place. For example, the following list covers common signs of heroin abuse.

Dependence and Withdrawal

Dependence refers to a state in which a person has become used to the specific effects a drug creates. As a result, they will have to consume more of the drug in the future to get those same results. Specifically, dependence on a substance in this manner often leads to an addiction. Once an addiction occurs, the person will experience bothersome heroin withdrawal symptoms once they try to stop using the substance.

Changes in Appearance

A person who is abusing heroin may take on a changing appearance. Therefore, they may unintentionally lose weight, develop skin rashes, or stop caring for their hygiene needs.

Ongoing Constipation

Opioid medications drastically slow the digestive system. As a result, the food a person consumes doesn’t digest in an efficient manner. Furthermore, they may experience stomach pains, constipation, or nausea as a result.

Slowed Breathing and Heart Rate

Opioids also slow other important bodily functions. For example, a person abusing these drugs may have a slower heart rate or pattern of breathing. If these bodily functions slow too much, the person could go into a coma.

Obtaining Proper Heroin Addiction Treatment

Heroin addiction treatment is of great importance in overcoming the powerful addiction to this substance. Since withdrawal symptoms are very hard to manage alone, professional treatment protocols can help a person manage these issues while they recover. In addition, quality treatment centers aim to meet the needs of each person affected by this serious problem.

Helping a Loved One Experiencing Addiction

Many people describe watching a loved one struggle with addiction as one of the hardest things they’ve had to do. In fact, you may feel helpless or alone in your struggles. For the most part, the best you can sometimes do is to let your family member know you’ll always be there for him or her. However, a professional heroin addiction rehab program can offer the support and resources needed to fully recover and resist future relapses.

Silver Pines Treatment Center

Silver Pines Treatment Center offers quality addiction treatment programs in the Hazelton, PA area. We view each aspect of a person’s identity as important in their personal healing journey.

Don’t let addiction predict your future happiness. We can help you overcome addiction with in-depth treatment programs that work. Contact Silver Pines Treatment Center at 267.209.7313 to find your best options for experiencing a full recovery.

Get Treatment Today

Related Resources

Silhouette of a male head illustration of mental health

Addiction

The Relationship Between Bipolar Disorder and Addiction

07/22/2024

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that can negatively affect a person’s daily functioning, relationships, and quality of life. ...