More responsible regulations make it harder for people to obtain prescription pain pills than a few years ago. However, when they can’t get the pills, many people who abuse synthetic opioids begin using heroin instead. As an opiate, heroin is dangerously addictive and can cause strong withdrawal symptoms when people stop taking it. Heroin detox is the most effective way to manage these symptoms in a safe environment.
About the Heroin Withdrawal Process
Heroin directly affects the reward system in the brain, making people more tolerant to its effects over time. In the long run, people need higher doses of the drug to achieve the same level of euphoria. When they stop using heroin, withdrawal begins. Because these symptoms are often painful, they use more heroin to keep them at bay.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Heroin withdrawal symptoms usually begin within six to 12 hours after their last dose. This onset happens faster than prescription pain pill withdrawal because heroin leaves the body quicker. The initial uncomfortable symptoms resemble that of the flu. Some of the mild withdrawal symptoms include belly cramps, muscle aches, nausea, and sweating.
Heroin withdrawal generally peaks on the second or third day. Many people have moderate symptoms during this time, such as agitation, diarrhea, fatigue, and tremors. They might also have trouble concentrating and become restless. However, severe heroin abuse or addiction could cause severe symptoms that include:
- Anxiety
- Cravings
- Depression
- Hypertension
- Increased heartbeat
- Respiratory problems
- Vomiting
The duration of heroin withdrawal depends on the amount of heroin and how long people take it. In general, however, withdrawal lasts for about seven to ten days. Since prolonged use affects behaviors and moods as well, some withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, depression, and fatigue can last for months.
How Individuals Can Benefit from a Heroin Detox
The above withdrawal symptoms can cause various complications. In some cases, for example, they inhale stomach contents when they vomit. The stomach contents block their airways, making them suffocate. Asphyxiation and other potential issues are why a medically supervised heroin detox can help.
During medical detox, healthcare staff monitors patients to avoid complications as the heroin naturally leaves the body. They track blood pressure, breathing, heart rate and temperature levels to keep patients safe throughout the process. The medical staff also prevents self-harm and relapse.
Heroin detox might involve medicine and therapy for people who struggle with strong symptoms and cravings. Some examples of beneficial meds include antidepressants and anti-nausea drugs. Many detox services also offer longer-acting opioid drugs for relief.
Methadone is another common drug that professional detox centers use. It’s a low-strength, slow-acting opiate that tapers off heroin use while preventing cravings and withdrawal. It’s available under the brands Diskets, Dolophine, and Methadose.
Discover an Effective Heroin Detox at Spring Gardens
If you or a loved one suffers from heroin abuse or addiction, Spring Gardens Recovery can help. Our rehab facility in Spring Hill, Florida, offers individual and group detox treatments. We aim to treat the body, mind, and soul throughout the process. Some of our addiction therapy options include:
- Amino acid IV infusions
- Pediment IV infusions
- Shaman-led yoga and guided meditation
Don’t let heroin control your or a loved one’s life. Ask our fully licensed staff about the proven detox methods that we use. Call Spring Gardens Recovery today at (866) 244-9556 to start our seven to 10-day heroin detox program in a safe, serene environment.
