Opioid and Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms: How to Manage Them
Heroin is an opioid that is highly addictive. It’s derived from morphine that comes from the dried latex of the opium poppy. The drug is often injected, snorted, or smoked. People who abuse heroin feel a surge of pleasure, which can make the drug addicting.
Heroin has a high potential for abuse, and those who continuously use it may experience withdrawal symptoms once they try to stop taking it.
What Is Heroin Withdrawal?
Heroin withdrawal happens when a person dependent on or addicted to the drug tries to reduce or stop its use significantly. It’s an extremely uncomfortable process that results in different negative symptoms.
Dependence develops over time, typically when a person uses it frequently and in high doses. The brain and body will slowly get used to the drug’s presence, and it becomes extremely difficult to function without it.
Heroin and Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
People who go through heroin or opioid withdrawal will experience different withdrawal symptoms.
Physical Symptoms
Some of the physical symptoms of heroin withdrawal include:
- Muscle pain and aches
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Chills and goosebumps
Behavioural Symptoms
Here are some of the behavioural symptoms associated with heroin withdrawal:
- Restlessness
- Cravings for more heroin or other substances
- Insomnia or disrupted sleep
- Irritability
Psychological Symptoms
Psychological symptoms of heroin withdrawal include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Agitation
- Paranoia and delusion
- Cognitive impairment
How Long Do Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
Withdrawal from heroin and opioids will start around 6-24 hours after last use. Most cases of withdrawal will peak at 48-72 hours and slowly subside after 5-7 days. However, withdrawal won’t look the same for everyone.
People with more severe opioid dependence and underlying health issues may experience withdrawal symptoms that last longer. It’s also important to remember that addiction itself is a chronic disease – although withdrawal symptoms subside, the risk of relapse remains. Lifelong management techniques are essential to maintain sobriety.
What Are the Complications of Opioid Withdrawal?
A person who goes through withdrawal from opioids is at risk of the following complications:
- Dehydration: Vomiting and diarrhoea are common symptoms of opioid withdrawal, and they put a person at risk of dehydration.
- Seizures: People who go through withdrawal may experience withdrawals, especially if they are abusing different drugs at once. This occurs because the drugs can affect the body’s central nervous system.
- Increased Risk of Overdose: Opioid overdose can happen when a person tries to take the drug again after detox. Since patients have a reduced tolerance, an overdose may occur if they return to using the drug in the same doses as before.
- Relapse: Going through opioid withdrawal without the proper support and supervision increases the risk of relapse. Psychological distress can make individuals crave opioid use and turn back to the drug as a coping mechanism.
These complications show why people going through withdrawal need medical supervision. Trying to detox alone can increase the risk of these complications.
How to Prevent Opioid Withdrawal
There is no one way to prevent opioid withdrawal. In most cases, people addicted to heroin or opioids will experience different withdrawal symptoms that can be difficult to manage. However, a few strategies can make the process less taxing on the mind and body.
For example, some medical professionals can suggest a gradual tapering of opioid dosage. This should be done under strict supervision as it requires careful monitoring and adjustment of medication. Severe withdrawal symptoms may occur if tapering is not done properly.
Outside medical supervision, proper support systems are also crucial. Detox is a physically and emotionally challenging time, and it can be difficult to see the light without proper support. Building strong support systems through loved ones or support groups can provide motivation and accountability during detox.
Management and Treatment of Opioid Withdrawal
Different management techniques and treatment options are used when a person is going through opioid withdrawal.
Medically Assisted Detox
Medically assisted detox is a must when a person goes through opioid withdrawal. Detoxing from any kind of drug is dangerous and possibly life-threatening. The presence of a medical professional can make the process safer and more comfortable. During a medically assisted detox, professionals can monitor a patient’s vital signs and refer them to more advanced treatment if needed.
Medication
In some cases, medical professionals can prescribe medications to make heroin withdrawal more comfortable. Medications like buprenorphine, clonidine, and methadone are used, given that clients take them with the supervision of healthcare professionals. These medications can help reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms.
Therapies
Detoxing from opioids can also be psychologically challenging. A person may experience psychological withdrawal symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Because of this, patients must receive help for their mental health through evidence-based therapies.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most common therapies utilised during detox and addiction treatment. It’s a therapy that helps clients understand their triggers for heroin use so that they can develop healthier coping mechanisms to overcome their addiction.
Rehab and Aftercare
Rehab is the next step after detox. It teaches those who struggle with drug abuse the right strategies and techniques to achieve sobriety. Those who go to rehab will receive structured therapies and counselling sessions. After rehab, treatment facilities can connect clients to aftercare programs so that they can maintain a drug-free life.
Find Treatment for Heroin and Opioid Addiction
At Orchid, we acknowledge that heroin and opioid addiction is a serious problem that requires professional treatment. Our team is equipped with the right knowledge and experience to help those struggling with opioid use disorder.
From compassionate staff to top-notch facilities, we ensure our clients receive the care they need to recover. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options.
