Heroin is a highly addictive street drug that’s part of the opioid drug class. As an opioid, heroin binds itself to opioid receptors in the brain and other areas of the body associated with pain and pleasure. In addition to depressing certain functions of the body – such as breathing and heart rate – heroin also stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, producing a rush of euphoria and relaxation. Due to the highly addictive nature of this drug, many people with heroin use disorders require medical assistance like heroin detox and treatment to quit.
Heroin Detox Symptoms
Heroin withdrawal can be a difficult process without medical assistance and supervision, especially between the first 6 to 12 hours after the person’s last use. During this time, a body that’s accustomed to taking a certain amount of heroin is attempting to eliminate this drug. The brain is also attempting to adjust itself after being under the influence of such a powerful drug.
The heroin detox timeline varies from person to person and depends greatly on the severity of their addiction. Those who have been using heroin for longer periods will experience more severe withdrawal symptoms.
Although major physical symptoms of heroin withdrawal usually subside within the first two weeks of medical detox, they may persist depending on the person’s condition. Common symptoms and signs of heroin withdrawal include:
- Fear
- Runny nose
- Dehydration
- Watery eyes
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stomach pains
- Fever
- Tremors
- Chills
- Leg cramps
- Leg spasms
- Addiction cravings
- Headache
- Elevated heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
In addition to withdrawal symptoms, some other signs that someone needs heroin addiction treatment and detox might exhibit include:
- Secretive behavior
- Doctor shopping
- Self-isolation
- Track marks at injection sites on arms or legs
- Lying or stealing from loved ones to get more drugs
- Abandonment of responsibilities
- Drug paraphernalia
- Mood swings
If you recognize any symptoms of withdrawal or addiction in a loved one, don’t be afraid to reach out for heroin detox help.
Heroin Detox Treatment at Clearbrook PA
Coming off heroin is so challenging because withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and even painful. Because opioids like heroin have such a heavy impact on dopamine levels, mental health, mood, and physical functions like breathing, receiving medical assistance can mitigate any negative physical and psychological problems that can occur during heroin comedown.
During medical heroin detox at our Pennsylvania drug rehab, patients receive 24-hour medical attention and care to mitigate their symptoms. In addition to ensuring physical and mental health and recovery, heroin withdrawal treatment also prevents relapse. Many addicts relapse during withdrawal because of symptoms, and medical detox that incorporates medication-assisted treatment and 24-hour supervision can keep patients comfortable, safe, and accountable.
Following detox, patients can then move on to our residential treatment program. This program allows patients to live onsite during treatment to separate them from at-home distractions and help them focus on their recovery.
Kicking heroin out of your life doesn’t have to be impossible. If you or a loved one is addicted to heroin or any other drug or alcohol, our Northeast recovery center is here to help. Contact Clearbrook Treatment Center to learn about our other forms of drug and alcohol treatment in PA.
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