In recent years, opioid addiction has overtaken communities throughout the United States. This type of drug does not discriminate based on age, gender, level of wealth, or any other factor in one’s life. It has reached every corner of the United States. However, you may wonder how so many people have become addicted to these types of drugs.
At its core, the prevalence of opioid addiction is related to how the drug works. When someone takes an opioid drug, such as a prescription painkiller or heroin, the brain releases endorphins. This chemical that the brain releases is responsible for creating an immense feeling of well-being. After a certain amount of time, this feeling will wear away as the effects of the drug become weaker. When people start seeking this feeling by taking more opioid drugs, this is where the roots of addiction take hold.
As an individual takes the same amount of opioids over and over, the production of endorphins is slowed. The tolerance that the drug user builds will push them to use higher doses of the drug over time. If a doctor does not keep prescribing legal opioid painkillers, people will often seek out these drugs illegally. This can also lead them to stronger illegal opioids that are available on the streets, such as fentanyl and heroin.
If the person who has developed an addiction discontinues the use of opioid drugs, they will start to go through withdrawal. Nerve cells in the brain become accustomed to the effects of opioids, so when there are no more opioids in the body, it can be a problem. The entire body experiences the effects of withdrawal. The flu-like symptoms often include fever, shaking, chills, and many more uncomfortable obstacles.
To avoid becoming addicted to opioids, it is essential to follow the instructions of your doctor when you are prescribed opioid painkillers. When people start using opioids in ways that are not prescribed, they can run into trouble. This can include crushing prescription painkillers to snort or injecting prescribed opioids.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how opioid drugs can affect your brain. We know that anyone can fall victim to opioid addiction, despite their best efforts. Every day, we work with individuals who developed an addiction after being prescribed opioid painkillers. We know how to work with people to give them the tools they need to live a life free of opioids after they have completed treatment.
Asana Recovery can help you with supervised detoxification as well as a residential treatment program. These treatments are offered in a supported, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We design our treatment program to help every individual to succeed in their recovery after they complete their treatment. There is no need to spend another day living the reality of having an opioid addiction. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about how you can start living a life free of opioid addiction. We are available any time to discuss our comprehensive drug and alcohol treatment program.
