Heroin is an addictive and dangerous substance that can cause serious damage to a person’s physical and mental health. It is a highly addictive opioid, and continued use of heroin can quickly lead to addiction and dependency. A heroin detox program can provide individuals with the necessary support and medical care to safely and effectively overcome their addiction.
At Vertava Health, we take heroin addiction treatment seriously. Our heroin detox center understands the dire nature of addiction and strives to provide a comfortable and safe environment for individuals to begin their recovery journey. Contact us at 844.470.0410 to learn more. Everyone deserves to be happy and healthy.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
While the effects of heroin withdrawal on the body can become severe, quitting heroin cold turkey can be dangerous. Certain symptoms of acute heroin withdrawal may resemble the flu. This could include cold flashes, diarrhea, muscle aches, runny nose, and vomiting.
Heroin withdrawal can become quite painful and uncomfortable. As withdrawal progresses, a person may also develop:
- Bone and joint pain
- Dilated pupils
- Goosebumps
- Muscle spasms
- Restless leg syndrome
- Restlessness
- Severe cravings
- Stomach cramps
- Sweating
- Teary eyes
Psychological symptoms of acute heroin withdrawal include anxiety, insomnia, and irritability. A person may also feel emotionally numb or develop dysphoria, which can cause dissatisfaction or uneasiness.
Withdrawal Symptoms Timeline
If a person is thinking about quitting heroin, they will likely wonder how long heroin withdrawal lasts. The severity and duration of heroin withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person and be dependent on:
- How long heroin was used for
- The amount of heroin used
- The frequency of use
- Any health conditions
As a short-acting opioid, heroin withdrawal can begin in a few hours. However, symptoms occur six to 24 hours after a person takes their last dose. Symptoms generally peak and are most severe in two to three days before diminishing between days four and 10. Post-acute withdrawal syndrome symptoms, however, may last weeks or even months.
Heroin Withdrawal Dangers
One of the greatest dangers of heroin withdrawal is relapse and overdose. If a person becomes overwhelmed by cravings and other unbearable withdrawal symptoms, they may relapse.
The risk of overdose during heroin withdrawal can run high. As a person’s body detoxes, their tolerance can drop. Should a person take the same amount of heroin they used before withdrawal, it may be too much for their body to handle.
While heroin withdrawal isn’t typically life-threatening, certain complications of withdrawal can be. For this reason, it isn’t recommended that one attempt to detox from heroin at home.
Vomiting is a common side effect of heroin. If someone aspirates (accidentally inhales) on their vomit, they could asphyxiate and die or develop aspiration pneumonia. This form of pneumonia can result in lung abscesses, shock, respiratory failure, or death.
Severe vomiting and diarrhea can cause extreme dehydration, which can cause sodium levels to skyrocket. Excessively high sodium levels in the blood can develop into heart failure, cardiac arrest, brain damage, and death.
Benefits of a Heroin Detox Program
A heroin detox program can help you or a loved one overcome heroin addiction and safely manage withdrawal symptoms. Some benefits of a heroin detox program include:
- Medical monitoring – A team of medical professionals will monitor your physical health throughout the detox process to ensure your safety.
- Medication-assisted treatment – Certain medications can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making the detox process more comfortable.
- Emotional support – A heroin detox program provides emotional support from counselors and peers who understand the challenges of overcoming addiction.
- Transition to further treatment – A heroin detox program can serve as a stepping stone to other forms of addiction treatment, such as therapy or an inpatient rehab program.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a heroin addiction, know that help is available.
Contact Vertava Health’s Heroin Detox Today
Heroin addiction detox can save lives. The first step towards recovery is reaching out for help. Vertava Health’s heroin detox program can provide you or your loved one with the necessary care and support to safely overcome addiction. Contact us at 844.470.0410 to learn more about our treatment options. Being your journey towards a happier and healthier life. We are here for you every step of the way.
