Currently, the United States is experiencing an opioid epidemic with thousands of Americans falling victim to opioid overdoses every year. Opioids include substances like prescription painkillers, morphine, and heroin. Among these, heroin is becoming one of the most widespread illicit substances in the country. If someone in your life suffers from a heroin addiction, it’s important to know the facts about heroin withdrawal symptoms so you can help them find the detox and treatment they need.
What Is Withdrawal?
When a person abuses an addictive substance for a long period of time, the body becomes dependent on the drug to function normally. If a person suddenly stops using the substance for any reason, the body will react negatively and crave the drug just as it does food and water. Although symptoms vary depending on the substance, many people compare withdrawal symptoms to having the flu.
A sudden detox can lead to extremely severe heroin withdrawal symptoms. If the symptoms are too severe, many people may relapse simply to stop the discomfort. This is dangerous, as it can lead to an overdose. In addition to providing comfort and support during this time, a professional detox center may also offer medication-assisted detox to help wean a person off heroin safely.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline
Heroin withdrawal symptoms are extremely similar to the flu. Typically, withdrawal symptoms last for no longer than a week, with the most severe symptoms peaking at around one to three days after a person’s last heroin use. The most common physical and emotional heroin withdrawal symptoms include:
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Increased heart rate and body temperature
- Tremors
- Stomach pain
- Irritability
- Mood swings
These are only a small portion of the potential symptoms a person can experience during withdrawal. That’s why it’s important to seek out a professional detox facility to monitor a person’s health during withdrawal and to help them stay as comfortable as possible during this stressful process.
Recovery with Morningside Recovery Detox
At Morningside Recovery Detox Center, we understand that taking the first step into detox can be scary and unnerving. That’s why we created a professional, comprehensive, California luxury detox experience to suit clients from all backgrounds. With beautiful west coast beaches as our backdrop, our Orange County detox center offers clients the highest quality care and amenities during their stay.
You don’t have to face heroin withdrawal symptoms alone. Call the experts at Morningside Recovery Detox Center today at 855-283-3118 to learn more about beginning your journey to recovery. We’re ready to walk with you on your path to a happier, healthier life.