Did you know that over 9 million people suffer from heroin addiction worldwide? It is a hard topic to breach with loved ones, especially since most people are either unwilling to talk or unaware of the problem.
Are you suspecting that a loved one is having issues with substance abuse? Read below about the signs of heroin addiction.
Heroin Addiction Explained
There are multiple stages of addiction, and some people may be more susceptible than others when it comes to substance abuse. These stages include:
- Gateway
- Tolerance
- Withdrawal
- Addiction
After the first hit of heroin, the Gateway stage, an individual starts to build a tolerance. The first hit is always the most memorable, and once tolerance is created, the addict will chase that feeling until they are addicted.
On top of that, the withdrawal symptoms of heroin are brutal, so even when an individual recognizes the need for treatment, it is challenging to stay clean.
Opioids and endorphins make the brain react in similar ways. Endorphins are released as a reward when you do something that makes you happy or accomplished. They are also released as natural pain relief.
Opioids, such as heroin work similarly to endorphins but on a much larger scale. Some users explain it as peace without any pain. It starts with a rush of euphoria and intense pleasure, followed by a false sense of warmth and safety.
Heroin Addictions Signs
Heroin is extremely bad for a person’s overall health. While the euphoria lasts for a few moments, the aftermath can have a serious effect on the individual’s well-being. It affects people both physically and mentally and causes serious long-term health issues.
Some of the signs of heroin use include:
- dry mouth
- constricted pupils
- slow breathing
- vomiting
- itching
- constipation
Heroin also has an effect on behavior. Your loved one may start to suffer from memory loss, confused thinking, and difficulty making decisions.
Usually, a person suffering from heroin addiction will make changes to their lifestyle to either cover or make room for the addiction. Many heroin addicts will have needle marks left by injections, they may withdraw from their loved ones, and their work and social life will suffer from the isolation and the urge to get high again.
While the side effects of someone taking heroin can be hidden, long-term medical complications are serious and dangerous. It can cause miscarriages, HIV from sharing needles, organ damage, clogged blood vessels, and more.
All of these symptoms may point towards a heroin addiction; however, it is impossible to conclude without proper testing.
When to Get Help
If you suspect that a loved one is addicted to heroin, get help immediately. You can reach out to a doctor or another professional that you trust, like .
Treatment centers and experts can help kick the addiction to the curb. However, keep in mind that addiction is a difficult and long process, and results don’t happen all at once.
Get Help Today: Signs of Heroin Addiction
Admitting the problem is the first step. If you see signs of heroin addiction in a loved one, reach out to a medical professional right away. They can help you set up the proper treatment plan and help you and your loved one move forward to a healthier life.
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