Asana Recovery

WHAT IS HEROIN?

LOOKING BACK AT PHILLIP SEYMOUR HOFFMAN’S DRUG ADDICTION

A popular, deadly drug by the name of heroin is becoming increasingly used every day. It’s seen in movies and television shows but what is it? Here are some important things to know about this deadly substance.

Heroin originally comes from the opium poppy, a flower native to Asia, Mexico, and South America. It was made illegal in the U.S. in 1924 due to its highly addictive nature. It’s often present as brown or white powder or even black tar. Alternative names for it include smack, horse, junk, and brown sugar.

Though heroin can be taken in multiple ways, it travels to your brain rapidly. Even after one or two uses, it becomes hard to stop this newfound habit. The drug can either be snorted, smoked, or more commonly, injected into your veins in order to achieve the fastest high. This method is the most dangerous; overdose is more likely, and you put yourself at risk of being infected by dirty needles. Immediately following the first dose, a sudden rush of euphoria washes over you. However several hours later, everything begins to slow down; you’re transported into a dreamlike, dissociated state of mind.

Typical, noticeable side effects of heroin use are nausea, vomiting, and itching. Heroin also prevents you from feeling pain and causes your heart rate and breathing to decrease. There are also more serious and severe side effects that may not show at first, but that surface gradually. Sadly in the case of an overdose, you may stop breathing altogether, resulting in death.

Long Term Effects of Heroin Use:

  • Dependency and tolerance of the drug
  • Chills
  • Vomiting
  • Bone and muscle pain Collapsed veins
  • Miscarriage
  • Infections of the heart lining and valves
  • Skin infections
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Hepatitis B / Hepatitis C
  • Lung disease, pneumonia, or tuberculosis
  • Death

Someone using heroin may not physically appear to be using drugs; they may just come across as abnormally sleepy while also denying that they are using it. Or maybe you’re in desperate need of help. It’s never too late to reach out for assistance and get started on your way to healing.

At Asana Recovery, we understand the struggle to recover from addiction, due to the rigors of our daily work to help those who need it most. Some believe they can tackle it alone, but rehab centers and programs are priceless in helping fight to cease dependency. Though not without trials, it can be done with the support of a strong team. Counseling and continued treatment assist you by identifying the psychological stepping stones that led you to addiction and help to create practices to better deal with life without the yolk of this disease.

The managed detox and residential treatment at Asana Recovery are offered in an environment that is relaxed and supportive. We are committed to ensuring long-term health and recovery, and leading you down a path to a happier future. Don’t delay, as we are always available to speak with you! Call us at (949) 438-4504 for an overview of our drug and alcohol addiction treatment program, today.