Opiate addiction terrifies both addicts and their families. The addiction causes insatiable cravings, ravages your mind and body, and has a high risk of overdose. In addition, opiate withdrawal symptoms can be severe. In fact, the unfortunate truth is that the fear of withdrawal symptoms keeps many addicts from seeking treatment. Yet, there is help that can make your detox safer and more comfortable. Medically supervised detox provides you with the medical and emotional support you need to decrease the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Once you’re past the initial withdrawal process, you can start treatment for the actual addiction and be on your path to lifelong healing. Symptoms of Opiate Withdrawal Opiates include a wide range of drugs, including heroin and prescription painkillers. Morphine, codeine, and OxyContin are all prescription opiates, and long-term use of these medications can result in unintentional addiction. Methadone, an opiate used as a heroin replacement in addiction treatment, can also cause opiate withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms typically start within 12 to 30 hours of drug cessation, depending on the opiate abused and the amount ingested. Initial symptoms of opiate withdrawal often resemble a bad flu and can include:
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches
- Runny nose
- Sweating
- Teariness
- Yawning
Early symptoms may not seem severe enough to require emergency drug detox, but as withdrawal progresses, symptoms can worsen rapidly. Severe pain from abdominal cramping can occur, and you may experience diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Goosebumps and dilated eyes are also common. Managing Opiate Withdrawal Opiate withdrawal is not usually life-threatening, although no one would argue the process can be uncomfortable. During emergency drug rehab, The Ranch PA health care professionals offer supportive care. You’re made as comfortable as possible to ease your transition to an opiate-free body. If needed, medication can help reduce the cramping, muscle aches, agitation, and anxiety associated with opiate withdrawal. Our medical team monitors you carefully for signs of complications. Vomiting and diarrhea, for instance, can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, so you may need fluids to keep you well hydrated. While opiate withdrawal can temporarily be stressful and painful, the healing that follows gives you your life back. At The Ranch PA, we offer you the care and attention you need to complete this essential first step in your recovery. (Photo via)
