Known for its addictive nature and harmful effects, heroin is an opiate drug that produces euphoric side effects that can lead to addiction. While users are filled with promises of pleasure, their health is being attacked. Heroin can drastically harm their physical, mental, and emotional wellness, and can affect anyone that tries it. The United States is in the middle of an opiate epidemic, so the need for detox and addiction treatment is high. That’s where Clearbrook Massachusetts comes in. Our heroin detox program is equipped to help patients navigate the distressing and dangerous withdrawal symptoms associated with this form of drug abuse.
How to Detox From Heroin
Heroin addiction is a debilitating and dangerous condition that requires specialized medical care to overcome. Detoxing from heroin is the first and most important step in the recovery process. The detox process involves purging the drug from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms. The best way to detox heroin is through a medically supervised detox program, where patients receive around-the-clock care and support.
The detox process typically involves a combination of medication and therapy. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, while therapy can help patients address the underlying causes of their addiction and learn coping skills to prevent relapse. In addition to medication and therapy, a healthy diet, exercise, and support from friends and family can also play a critical role in the detox and recovery process. With the care and support found at our Massachusetts rehab center, it is possible to successfully detox from heroin and begin a new life in recovery.
Heroin Withdrawal Timeline
The timeline of heroin withdrawal can vary depending on the individual and the length and intensity of heroin use, among other factors. However, there are general patterns of withdrawal symptoms that tend to occur at certain times.
The heroin withdrawal timeline typically includes the following stages:
- Within 6-12 hours after last use: The onset of withdrawal symptoms begins, including agitation, anxiety, muscle aches, sweating, and insomnia.
- Days 1-3: Symptoms peak during this time and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, chills, and increased heart rate and blood pressure.
- Days 4-7: Symptoms begin to subside, but some physical discomfort and mood disturbances may persist.
- Days 8-14: Most physical symptoms have resolved, but psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and drug cravings may persist.
- After 2-3 weeks: The acute withdrawal phase is typically over, but some individuals may experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) such as sleep disturbances, mood swings, and fatigue for several months.
It’s important to note that heroin withdrawal can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience, and medical supervision and support can be helpful in managing symptoms and preventing relapse. Luckily, these resources are readily available at our Northeast addictions treatment center.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
These symptoms can be severe and debilitating for individuals who are dependent on the drug. They usually occur when someone who has been using heroin regularly suddenly stops or reduces their use.
Symptoms of heroin withdrawal include:
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Nervousness and agitation
- Muscle spasms and shaking
- Sweating
- Cravings for the drug
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fear
- Runny nose
- Dehydration
- Watery eyes
- Stomach pains
- Leg cramps and spasms
- Elevated heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
These symptoms occur because heroin is an opioid drug that changes the chemistry of the brain, binding to specific receptors that control pain and pleasure. With chronic use, the brain adapts to the presence of the drug, and when it is suddenly removed, the brain’s chemical balance is disrupted, leading to withdrawal symptoms.
It can take days or even weeks for withdrawal symptoms to subside, and medical assistance may be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent relapse. When the body is coming off heroin, it is important for the patient to be in a safe and controlled environment, such as the one provided at our drug rehab in Massachusetts.
Heroin Withdrawal Treatment
We offer medically monitored detox programs to help and guide our patients through a safe detox.
After completing heroin detox, patients then move into our residential treatment program. In this program, patients will be monitored 24 hours a day to ensure they stay on their recovery track. It is also where heroin addiction treatment can be provided to help patients overcome and unlearn the destructive habits that resulted in withdrawal in the first place.
To learn more about our addiction and detox programs, contact Clearbrook Treatment Center Massachusetts, and speak with an intake specialist today.
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