Do I Need Detox From Heroin?
Do I Need Detox From Heroin?
At some point during their addiction, most people suffering from heroin dependence will realize that they want to stop using it. A fear of withdrawal may set in at this stage, making individuals wonder if quitting is worth the painful side effects.
While it’s true that the physical symptoms of withdrawal can be uncomfortable, even dangerous in some extreme cases, the reality is that with professional help, detox from heroin can be undertaken safely and with minimal discomfort.
Getting the Right Help Is Important
For many who are suffering from addiction, the symptoms of withdrawal are all too familiar. Ranging from flu-like symptoms to frightening mental disturbances, these symptoms are a big motivator to end the detox from heroin and get the next fix. Even worse than the symptoms themselves is the anticipation of them, and the fear of how bad they will be.
Getting a professional assessment can mean the difference between a successful detox and a series of panic attacks that lead right back to the drug in a desperate search for relief. Admittedly, facing heroin detox can be scary. On the other hand, facing it alone is terrifying. Taking the initiative to contact a rehabilitation facility can help calm your fears and get you on a confident path to recovery. Getting involved with a detox program helps you cultivate the right attitude and set the right expectations for detox. Remember that the benefits of quitting heroin far outweigh the short-term withdrawal symptoms.
What Are Withdrawal Symptoms Like?
Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the severity of the addiction. The following are the most common symptoms experienced within eight hours of stopping heroin:
- Painful Cramps
- Stomach Upset
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Insomnia
- Muscle soreness
- Depression
- A feeling that something awful is about to happen
- Anxiety
- Lethargy
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Chills
- Sweating
- Loss of appetite
These symptoms usually last between 2–7 days. After the initial detox from heroin, acute post-withdrawal symptoms can persist for several months, which is why it’s important to get support from people who have been through the experience and are fully in recovery. Longer term symptoms may include:
- Trouble concentrating
- Difficulty maintaining a sleep schedule
- Feeling of being overwhelmed by normal stress
- Manic emotional highs and lows
- Cravings for heroin
- Trouble with short- and long-term memory
- Cyclical, anxious thought patterns
The Right Time to Ask For Help is Now
You’re ready to make the change and start a better life. You know that you need detox from heroin, but the next question is, “How do I get help?”
Don’t try to go it alone. Recovery Connection can help with your questions about detox, rehab, and recovery. Your chances of maintaining sobriety are greatly increased when you work with professional detox facilities and rehab centers. We’ll make sure you get connected with others in your community who know what you’re going through and are ready to support you while you do the hard work of saving your life.
Call Recovery Connection today at 800-993-3869. We’ll set you up with the right expectations for recovery and allay your fears about detox and withdrawal.
