Opioid addiction is a serious problem in the U.S. This addiction cuts across all backgrounds and social or economic statuses. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control, about 78 people die every day from an opioid-related overdose.
Opioids are effective pain relievers that act swiftly. Unfortunately, they also create dependence and are known to carry a risk of addiction. Opioid use also comes with certain side effects and can cause withdrawal symptoms if an individual abruptly stops using them.
Once opioids are taken, they attach themselves to opioid receptors in the brain and trigger the release of endorphins. The endorphins in turn muffle the perception of pain while boosting feelings of pleasure, creating a sense of euphoria. Long-term opioid use frequently leads to less production of endorphins, meaning more of the drug is needed to achieve the same effect. This is referred to as tolerance and is often one of the first steps toward addiction.
Side Effects of Opioid Use
Individuals can experience side effects of opioid use almost as soon as they start taking them. The most common include:
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle rigidity
- Muscle spasms
- Respiratory depression
- Itchy skin
- Physical dependence
- Tolerance
When you abruptly stop using opioids, you may experience a range of side effects. These vary in severity depending on your physiology and how long you’ve been taking the drugs. The most common withdrawal symptoms are:
- Vomiting
- Anxiety
- Muscle aches
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Hyperventilation
- High body temperature (hyperthermia)
Managing the side effects of Opioid Addiction
Managing either the side effects or the withdrawal symptoms of opioid addiction calls for a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Detoxification
The first step in seeking treatment for opioid addiction is detoxification. This process allows the body to eliminate any harmful toxins left from the drugs. For the best outcome, detox should be done under medical supervision. That way, you can be sure that help is available to deal with any withdrawal symptoms you may experience. Once this process is complete, you’ll be ready to proceed to more intensive treatment.
Rehab treatment
After detox, it’s recommended that you enter an addiction treatment program at a rehab center. You can choose to either attend residential drug treatment or an outpatient program. These programs are designed to help patients understand their addiction as well as learn skills to help them cope with cravings and temptations and to avoid relapse.
Contact Findlay® Recovery Center today
If you choose a residential treatment program, you’ll stay at the treatment facility for the duration of your treatment. With an outpatient program, you’ll attend treatment and then go back home, leaving you free to keep up with your responsibilities.
Navigating the side effects and withdrawal symptoms of opioid addiction may be difficult but recovery is possible with the right care. At the Findlay Recovery Center in Ohio, we provide both detox and rehab treatment for those struggling with addiction. Get in touch with us and let us help you rebuild an addiction-free life.
