Heroin can produce a strong, euphoric high during the first few uses. Although people who use the drug may end up chasing that feeling, they may never experience it so intensely again. As those individuals begin on the path down the heroin drug crisis lane, they may begin to notice the way it destroys their physical, mental and social health. Still, the fear of heroin withdrawal symptoms may prevent an individual from trying to stop using the substance.
Why Can’t You Just Quit Using Heroin?
As a substance use disorder begins to negatively impact your life, you may feel a strong desire to quit. However, it takes more than the strongest willpower to stop using a powerful narcotic.
Because heroin activates the brain’s reward centers, the body stops producing the chemicals that make you feel good naturally. You become reliant on the substance in order to feel normal.
If you try to eliminate the drug from your system, you usually feel worse than you ever did before. You can manage your heroin withdrawal symptoms with medication, time or by using heroin again.
The fact that using the substance can counteract the withdrawal symptoms causes many people to relapse. If they try to quit without the help of a Texas heroin rehab center, they don’t have the support that they need to make it through the withdrawal phase.
What Are Some Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms?
Everyone experiences a different range and intensity of symptoms. Some of the factors that play into the withdrawal experience are the length of time that you used the drug, your body and brain’s dependence on heroin, and the dosage amount.
Many people experience similar symptoms, including:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Sweats or chills
- Agitation and restlessness
- Body aches
- Anxiety or depression
- High blood pressure or heart rate
- Cravings for the drug
Are Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms Really That Intense?
Many people don’t understand heroin detox. They see the way that media portrays withdrawal, and they shy away from doing anything to bring on that kind of pain. The thought of writhing in agony in a hospital-like setting is enough to keep many people from seeking help.
The right heroin addiction treatment plan provides comfort and support during withdrawal. However, treatment doesn’t stop with detox. After detox, it’s important to seek a quality addiction treatment program.
When deciding where to go for rehab, it’s important to take a few things into account, including:
- Treatments – The facility you choose should offer a number of treatments so that you’re able to get the personalized program that works for you
- Location – While some people are okay to get help near them, a heroin rehab program San Antonio TX or Los Angeles CA offers may be more beneficial, due to the warm weather and availability of outdoor activities
- Continuum of care – Look for treatment that starts with detox and goes through aftercare
Wherever you choose to get help, make sure to do it soon. Heroin could take your life in the blink of an eye.