Heroin detox is not an easy process, but it is definitely worth it in the end. When you are going through heroin detox, you can expect to experience a wide range of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can vary in severity, depending on how long you have been using heroin and how much you use on a regular basis.
In this blog post, we will discuss what to expect from heroin detox and how you can make this crucial process easier.
How Does Heroin Work in the Body?
Heroin is a highly addictive drug that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. This action slows down the signals nerve cells send to each other, which is why heroin and other opioid drugs are used to treat pain. When heroin binds to receptors, this changes how we interpret pain.
In some cases, this binding also causes a surge of dopamine, which creates feelings of pleasure and euphoria. Dopamine is used in the brain’s reward system and is ordinarily dispensed in very small amounts. Addictive drugs like heroin turn these small amounts into a massive flow, creating an intense, pleasurable rush. This rush drives addictive behaviors.
Over time, the body becomes dependent on heroin to produce these sensations and it can be very difficult to quit using without help. Additionally, large enough amounts of heroin can dangerously slow body processes such as breathing, causing a lethal overdose.
How Long Does Heroin Detox Last?
The length of time that it takes to complete heroin detox can vary from person to person. However, most people will experience the worst of the withdrawal symptoms during the first week. This initial stage lasts for around six to seven days.
During the second week, the symptoms are still present but begin to taper off and you will begin to feel better. However, the psychological symptoms of heroin abuse — sleep disorders, mood disorders, and exhaustion — can last for months. Professional detox providers can make withdrawal easy to bear, and treatment methods such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT) also assist during detox.
Factors such as an individual’s health, the amount of time spent using heroin, and the length of time a person spent in addiction also factor into how long and how severe withdrawal can be.
What Are The Withdrawal Symptoms From Heroin Like?
The withdrawal symptoms associated with heroin addiction can be quite severe. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Body aches
- Sweating
- Chills
- Fever
You may also experience mood swings, anxiety, depression, and intense cravings for heroin. Again, while many of these symptoms can persist for months after withdrawal, they do get easy over time and with addiction treatment.
Drug rehab will make withdrawal as comfortable as possible. Rehabs work with detox centers to ensure their clients receive the best possible care as they recover from heroin addiction.
How Can Detox Make Heroin Withdrawal Easier?
There are many different detox methods available, but not all of them are suitable for people who are addicted to heroin. In most cases, it is best to seek professional help from a detox center or rehab facility. These centers can provide you with all the support you need during the detox process and they will also have access to medications that can make withdrawal easier.
Medications such as buprenorphine and methadone are often used during heroin detox. These drugs work by binding to the same opioid receptors as heroin but they do not produce the same high. This allows people to wean off of heroin gradually while avoiding the intense withdrawal symptoms.
Detox also helps by providing close medical monitoring. While detoxing from heroin can be unpleasant, it’s rarely as risky as detoxing from benzodiazepines or alcohol. Nevertheless, there are occasionally medical complications from heroin detox, and detoxing at a center means the process is done as safely and comfortably as possible.
Plus, when a person moves to an addiction center for treatment, they will receive additional care and treatment to help them manage persistent drug cravings, receive further stabilization, and learn how to live life without depending on a potentially lethal drug.
Detox is an important first step in overcoming heroin addiction, but it is only the beginning. After detox, you will need to receive further treatment in order for recovery to be successful. At this stage, most move into an inpatient care program for a period of time.
Finding A Heroin Detox Center Isn’t Easy
There are many detox centers in the US. However, not all of them are created equal. It’s important to do your research and find a detox center that will meet your specific needs.
Some things you may want to consider when choosing a detox center include:
- The length of time you will need to stay in detox
- What type of treatment is available after detox
- Whether or not the center uses medication-assisted treatment
- The cost of treatment
Heroin addiction is a serious problem that requires professional help to overcome. If you or someone you know is struggling with heroin addiction, finding a detox center is key.
Sober Living Is The Next Step After Inpatient Care
A sober living home is an ideal place for someone recovering from opioid addiction. It provides a safe and structured environment from drug cravings and relapses while also giving residents the freedom to live their lives without being under constant supervision.
Sober living homes are often run by addiction treatment centers or sober living organizations. They typically have rules in place that help residents stay on track with their recoveries, such as curfews, mandatory meetings, and drug testing.
Many people find that sober living is a great way to transition back into society after completing an inpatient treatment program. It allows them to continue working on their sobriety while also having more independence.
If you’re considering sober living, be sure to research different homes in your area. Some things you may want to look for include:
- The length of time one can stay at the home
- The cost of rent
- What type of support is available
- Whether or not the home has rules in place
Sober living homes are a great option for people who are recovering from heroin addiction. If you or someone you know is considering sober living, be sure to do your research and find a home that meets your needs.
Good news — if you’re reading this blog, you’re in the right place. SoberLivingNearYou.com is a massive directory of sober homes across the US. With us, you’ll be able to find a sober home for your needs, budget, and lifestyle easier than ever.
Start searching today with SoberLivingNearYou.com!