Heroin is one of the most addictive and deadly substances out there. People who use heroin know that it is bad for them. In many cases, they even know that the drug destroys lives. Why do they continue to use this drug if it causes so much damage? One reason is that heroin addiction robs them of the ability to choose. The other reason is that heroin withdrawal symptoms make people relapse time and time again. It is important to seek out the help of a heroin detox center in Houston,TX, to have medical professionals monitor you and help you through the withdrawal.
What Is Withdrawal?
First, understand what the term “withdrawal” means. It refers to the physical and psychological symptoms that pop up after people stop using a substance. Even drugs such as caffeine can cause withdrawal.
The strength of the symptoms depends on a number of factors. For example, the longer people take drugs, the more extreme symptoms they will experience upon quitting. Also, certain drugs cause harsher withdrawal than others. For example, caffeine withdrawal is not anywhere as extreme as opioid or alcohol withdrawal.
For people to develop withdrawal symptoms, they first have to take a substance repeatedly and develop physical dependency. They know when physical dependence develops because their bodies can not function normally without the drug. Usually, dependency occurs when people take too much of a drug or take it for too long.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
All drugs have a unique set of withdrawal symptoms. While some drugs may share common symptoms, it is uncommon for them to share all of the same symptoms. The most common heroin withdrawal symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Shakes
- Diarrhea
- Sweating
- Strong cravings for heroin
- Irritation
In general, there are no life-threatening heroin withdrawal symptoms. However, people need to drink plenty of fluids during the heroin detox process. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating can lead to dehydration. It is beneficial to go through this process in medical detox under medical supervision.
Also, heroin withdrawal symptoms typically change depending on the stage of withdrawal. There are three stages, and the first starts around 24 to 48 hours after the last dose of heroin. During this stage, people start getting moody and have intense cravings.
In the second stage, people experience restlessness, cramps and have watery eyes and a runny nose. Withdrawal during the third stage becomes more intense. People generally experience cardiovascular problems, vomiting, and fever.
These symptoms occur as the body tries to normalize itself after prolonged heroin use. It is important to seek medical help during the withdrawal process. Usually, rehab centers do not offer support for detox. Instead, people have to visit dedicated medical detox centers.
Suicidal Thoughts
People should seek professional detox help for many reasons. However, many do not because most of the symptoms do not cause life-threatening complications. However, withdrawal can cause depression and even suicidal thoughts.
A professional Houston detox center can monitor people during detox to ensure that they remain safe. Seeking detox treatment sets the stage for a successful rehab program.
Let Us Set You Down the Right Path
If you want to kick off your rehab the right way, visit us at Serenity House Detox & Recovery. We offer detox services that can build a strong foundation for your rehab. Some of the different programs that we offer include:
Addiction does not have to control your life. Do not let heroin withdrawal symptoms keep you from getting the help you need. Find out what it takes to overcome addiction at Serenity House Detox & Recovery. Take the first step to overcoming addiction by calling 866.516.8356.
