The opioid epidemic has affected all Americans either directly or by association. If you do not know someone in your own family that has struggled with substance use issues, you likely know someone who does. Heroin addiction has been exacerbated by the introduction of synthetic opiates, like fentanyl, into mainstream use. Most individuals with an opioid addiction today are not abusing pure heroin. Instead, they are addicted to a variety of mixtures of opioids and other substances created into cocktails that are even more potent. The strength of these synthetic mixtures puts those with an addiction at greater risk of overdose.
Fresh Start Recovery Center offers personalized heroin addiction treatment as well other related treatment programs for those with substance use disorders. We work with clients to tailor treatment plans to fit an individual’s specific needs based on their life and personal circumstances. Reach out to us today at 833.625.0398 to speak with a trained representative about recovery options.
Common Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
In order to protect those you care about, it’s a good idea to be aware of the signs and symptoms of someone who is abusing or has relapsed on heroin or other opiates.
Heroin withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Excessive sweating
- Shaking
- Nervousness and agitation
- Depression
- Muscle spasms
- Cravings for heroin
Signs of Heroin Abuse
A person who is abusing heroin is likely to change their thought processes and behaviors. It’s important to be aware of the signs so early intervention is possible. Signs of heroin abuse can include:
- Increased concerns about privacy
- Lack of responsibility
- Lack of interest in activities
- Social isolation
- Relationship problems
- Work problems
Heroin Overdose, Prevention, and Emergency Preparedness
If someone you know and care about is abusing heroin or other opiates it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the life-saving medication naloxone. Naloxone (sold under the brand name Narcan) can rapidly reverse an opioid-related overdose by instantly flushing an overdosed person’s body of opiates. Naloxone typically comes as a nasal spray. If you are in an emergency situation where you believe someone has overdosed, you can spray naloxone up their nostrils to save their life. Your first response, however, should be to call 911. If a person is conscious, try to keep them awake and talking.
If a person is unresponsive, this may be an appropriate situation to administer naloxone. After spraying naloxone in each nostril, use your hands to massage the overdosed person’s chest until there is evidence they are breathing on their own. Once emergency medical personnel arrive, allow them to take over the situation.
Common signs of heroin overdose can include:
- Lips, fingertips, nails turning blue
- Slow breathing
- Erratic breathing
- Weak pulse
- Slow heartbeat
- Deep snoring
- Unresponsiveness
Contact Fresh Start About Heroin Addiction Treatment Today
The medical professionals at Fresh Start know it’s difficult to kick the habit. That’s why we work with clients to develop a personalized treatment plan that will be effective based on individual needs. In our heroin addiction treatment program, medical doctors and mental health counselors provide a range of programs and therapy services to provide you with the help you deserve. Fresh Start’s programs include:
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- Outpatient treatment (OT)
- Gender-specific rehab
- Relapse prevention
Fresh Start’s therapy services are designed to help us treat the whole person to improve our clients’ overall well-being. Our therapeutic options to help clients address core issues including the emotional and psychological aspects that lead to self-medication with substances like heroin.
We want you to keep in mind that it’s never too late to begin recovery. The experts at Fresh Start want to help you achieve lasting sobriety. Reach out to us today at 833.625.0398 to speak with a trained representative today who can tell you more about our personalized treatment plans for heroin recovery.
