Drug addiction is powerful. Once you build a physical dependence on a drug, your body may require that you continue putting it into your system or else you will experience the symptoms of withdrawal.
When you are addicted to opiates, the withdrawal symptoms can be quite significant. In fact, you may find that you need professional help to get over the withdrawal symptoms associated with opiate use.
What Are Opiates?
Opiates are drugs, including heroin and and prescription painkillers, that have powerful withdrawal symptoms just a few hours after the last dose. The symptoms associated with withdrawal from these drugs can last for weeks.
Is Opiate Withdrawal Dangerous?
Opiate withdrawal without medical assistance is not necessarily dangerous, but individuals who are withdrawing from opiates may have a higher success rate (or lower chance of relapse) if they have medical assistance.
What Are Opiate Withdrawal Symptoms?
The symptoms of opiate withdrawal include nausea, goosebumps, and muscle cramps. Opiate cravings will become extremely intense in the first stages of withdrawal.
Some of the symptoms of opiate withdrawal are more mental and emotional. Some people experience intense depression and anxiety. You may notice increased agitation and restlessness.
Some symptoms are associated with the initial short-term withdrawal. These include muscle aches, tearing up, excessive yawning, hypertension, and a racing heart.
The long-term symptoms include diarrhea and stomach cramps. Your digestion may feel abnormal for the next few days.
What Is Medical Detox?
Medical drug detox provides physical treatment for individuals going through the symptoms of opiate withdrawal. These clients may benefit from medications that relieve discomfort and pain associated with physical withdrawal symptoms. The clinicians at a medical detox facility have the ability to monitor your blood pressure and other vitals.
Therapy and psychological treatments are also available to assist clients who need extra help with the emotional and mental components of drug use and recovery. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and family therapy can be beneficial for individuals who need help after the fact.
You have many options for medical detox. If you are unsure if you need a detox facility to monitor your recovery, you have access to professionals who can help you determine what steps you need to take next.
When you are living with opiate addiction, help is available. Detox with a medical professional can help you recover safely and potentially live a sober, happy life. Call your local detox facility to see what professionals can do for you.