For anyone who has suffered from drug addiction and attempted to quit, you are probably aware of the fact that withdrawal can be long and painful. Certain drugs are more addictive than others, and perhaps one of the most difficult to break is heroin. A deadly synthetic opioid, this drug has been responsible for the deaths of hundreds of people across the United States (particularly in the wake of the Opioid Crisis) and is overwhelmingly addictive. Needless to say, withdrawal from heroin is particularly difficult due to the emotional connection that can be formed with the drug. So, what can be expected from heroin withdrawal? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
How Long Does It Last?
Some medical experts have described heroin addiction as loaning money from a bank: for every advance on good feelings, you receive a terrible burden of pain and depression after experiencing a high. Simply put, this cycle of addiction is a deadly rush. Mostly, heroin withdrawal will start roughly 6 to 12 hours after a person has stopped using the opioid and may peak over the course of 1 to 3 days (eventually stopping after 5 to 7 days at least).
Side Effects of Heroin Withdrawal
Here is a closer look at some of the side effects of heroin withdrawal:
- Severe cravings: People who are going through heroin withdrawal will experience overwhelming cravings for the opioid. This feeling may by triggered by a desire to stop the pain of withdrawal or to continue using the drug altogether.
- Mood swings: At some points, the addicts will suffer from dysphoric moods, a cycle where a person suffers from repetitive feelings of anger, sadness, and irritability.
- Physical pain: Being an opioid, heroin is designed to block pain receptors. As a result of withdrawal, any pain people experienced prior to taking this substance will instantly return (sometimes worse than before due to refreshed sensitivity).
- Digestive problems: Addicts who are withdrawing from heroin will suffer from stomach pain and diarrhea and may experience bouts of nausea and vomiting.
- Fever: Unlike a cold or virus, a fever that accompanies heroin withdrawal is not serving the purpose of cleaning out bacteria and can severely harm the body.
- Problems with sleep: Due to the sudden disappearance of heroin, addicts will start to suffer from severe sleep problems, including insomnia.
Seeking Treatment for Heroin Addiction
Heroin is easily one of the deadliest drugs on the planet, and it has been responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people. Now, in the wake of the opioid crisis, this dangerous synthetic painkiller has continued to leave a path of destruction in its toxic wake. Although this drug might be notoriously addictive, you can easily find a way to break free from its sticky black clutches. With the right mixture of perseverance and patience, you can easily overcome your heroin addiction and get back on track.
Are you suffering from a severe case drug abuse or addiction? Is your friend or loved one also suffering from this sickness? In both cases, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
