Heroin is a major problem in the United States due to the overprescription of narcotic painkillers. However, it’s important to realize that the heroin addiction signs aren’t always easy to spot. This type of addiction may be affecting someone close to you, and this is why you need to know what signs to look for. With a knowledge of the signs of a heroin addiction, you can help your loved one find the detox centers that they need.
Heroin Addiction Signs
Heroin is a powerful opioid that’s much stronger than many of the prescription pain medications given by doctors. Pain medications are given to people to help block the pain receptors in the brain, but they can be highly addictive. It’s important to realize that many people with a heroin addiction started off with a prescription drug problem. Many people become dependent on prescription opioids but need something stronger because of their tolerance.
Heroin is a drug that can come in different forms, which is why you need to know the various signs of heroin addiction. The signs may not always be obvious because individuals use the drug in different ways. Snorting, smoking, and injecting are all common ways to use heroin. You should first check to see if there are any bruise markings on a person’s arms, legs, or neck for signs of injection points. There will also be many behavioral changes such as depression, mood swings, and withdrawal from social activities.
Physical Heroin Addiction Signs
Most people who begin abusing heroin will build a dependence within a matter of weeks, eventually causing them to experience withdrawal. The symptoms of withdrawal are the most noticeable heroin addiction signs that you should look for. These symptoms happen when a person doesn’t have access to the drug, and they become mentally and physically ill. Some of the most common symptoms of heroin withdrawal include the following:
- Cold sweats
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Aches and pains
- Cramping
An inpatient drug rehab center can treat these symptoms, and then your loved one can recover. The first step is to go through the medical detoxification process, so your loved one can straighten out mentally and physically. From here, they can begin addiction rehabilitation in which they learn a new way of living.
Overcoming Heroin Addiction
If you notice the heroin addiction signs in a loved one, a heroin addiction treatment center can help. A rehab center works closely with local detox facilities to help with detox, and then they can begin heroin addiction treatment. Through our variety of levels of care, they can help your loved one recover. Some of the programs you might encounter include:
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Extended care
Finally, don’t let heroin addiction control your life. Reach out to professional addiction treatment specialists at heroin rehab centers today to begin your recovery journey.
