When you are in the grips of heroin addiction, it can be incredibly challenging to quit on your own. Many people may be tempted to try an at-home detox either due to reluctance to attend an inpatient treatment center or concern about the cost of rehab. Heroin withdrawal can put you at high risk for relapse, as symptoms may be too uncomfortable to manage without professional help. Professional heroin detox in Houston can provide you with the assistance you need to get through heroin withdrawal symptoms without the discomfort of quitting cold turkey.
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we understand the risks of quitting heroin cold turkey and how difficult it can be to stick it out through the entire withdrawal process without treatment. Our comprehensive addiction treatment plans can help you overcome heroin addiction safely and comfortably. Give us a call today at 866.516.8356 to learn more about our reliable heroin detox program in Houston.
Common Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
Once your body and mind have become dependent on heroin, you will experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it. The severity of heroin withdrawal symptoms will vary depending on certain factors, including:
- The method of use, whether injected or snorted
- How long you have been using heroin
- How high of a dose of heroin that you use
- Whether the heroin you use is cut with other drugs such as fentanyl
The above variables can significantly impact your withdrawal experience. Most people need professional help to get through heroin withdrawal since the symptoms can be potentially severe.
Potential Withdrawal Symptoms
During the early stages of withdrawal, many people struggle with the discomfort and end up relapsing to alleviate their symptoms. Some of the most common heroin withdrawal symptoms are:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Muscle aches and pains
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia
While heroin withdrawal does not present the same dangers as withdrawing from alcohol, experts recommend that you undergo professional treatment to protect your safety. The above symptoms are not necessarily life-threatening, with the exception of suicidal thoughts if acted upon or if an individual engages in self-harm. There is also the risk of severe dehydration from excessive sweating, vomiting, and diarrhea if the person does not stay hydrated.
Why Quitting Heroin Cold Turkey Is Not Safe
If you think your heroin addiction is mild, you may be tempted to do an at-home detox. This seems like the most convenient and affordable option for many people, and they may think they can handle withdrawal symptoms on their own. However, it is generally not recommended that you try quitting heroin cold turkey. There are several risks in trying to end your heroin addiction alone:
- A high risk of relapse – If you experience severe withdrawal symptoms without relief from addiction medications, you may not be able to withstand the entire withdrawal period.
- Dehydration – As mentioned above, excessive sweating, vomiting, and diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration. If you are not replacing fluids adequately, you may end up in the emergency room for dehydration.
- Malnutrition – Heroin addiction often leads to poor eating habits as the drug may weaken your appetite. Many people struggling with heroin addiction do not eat enough to sustain their overall health and well-being. Heroin also impacts your digestive function, which can interfere with your body’s ability to assimilate and process nutrients in your food. Eventually, the lack of adequate nutrition will cause your health to suffer.
- Emotional disturbance – Trying to quit heroin cold turkey can leave you to deal with mental health conditions. These challenges may threaten your safety. If you experience severe anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, you are more likely to engage in self-harming behaviors.
Find Reliable Heroin Detox at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
If you are ready to end heroin addiction for good, reach out to Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston. Our heroin detox programs incorporate evidence-based treatments with a combination of medication, behavioral therapies, and holistic therapies to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the process. Give us a call today at 866.516.8356 to learn how we can help you get through heroin withdrawal and move on to a healthy, happy recovery.
