If you or a loved one are seeking rehabilitation for opioid addiction, you might feel that you are alone in navigating withdrawal. However, opioid addiction is more common than you might think. In fact, in 2019, an estimated 10.1 million people aged 12 or older misused opioids.. Specifically, 9.7 million people misused prescription pain relievers and 745,000 people used heroin, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
In this article, we will share a few things to expect about handling opioid withdrawal and seeking opioid addiction treatment in Tampa. Remember, if you are struggling with addiction you should reach out to Phoenix House Florida.
How do Opioids Impact the Brain?
Opioids can take only 3 days to develop a psychological addiction because they create a false sense of euphoria. These drugs are so addictive because they target the brain’s reward system and flood the circuit with dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates movement, emotion, and feelings of pleasure.
A recent study states:
“From a clinical standpoint, opioid withdrawal is one of the most powerful factors driving opioid dependence and addictive behaviors. Treatment of the patient’s withdrawal symptoms is based on understanding how withdrawal is related to the brain’s adjustment to opioids. Repeated exposure to escalating dosages of opioids alters the brain so that it functions more or less normally when the drugs are present and abnormally when they are not. Two clinically important results of this alteration are opioid tolerance (the need to take higher and higher dosages of drugs to achieve the same opioid effect) and drug dependence (susceptibility to withdrawal symptoms). Withdrawal symptoms occur only in patients who have developed tolerance.”
Symptoms of Opioid Withdrawal
No matter what type of opioid was being used, there are a few common withdrawal symptoms to watch for. These might feel scary and can be often confused with another condition, like anaphylaxis or heart attack but will last longer. Common symptoms include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Increased body temperature
- Racing heart
- Muscle and bone pain
- Sweating
- Chills
- High blood pressure
It is important to talk to a drug rehab in Tampa to address these symptoms and make sure that you understand the best way to beat them.
Tips for Handling Withdrawals
If you’re facing withdrawals from opioids, it can become extremely challenging to stay the course with your recovery journey. However, you can get help with these withdrawals.
If you or a loved one are struggling with any type of addiction, help is available. Services are available through Phoenix House Florida to help you navigate your addiction and recovery, including helping you through drug withdrawals.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, speak with specialists in Tampa drug rehab, Phoenix House Florida. To schedule a consultation with Phoenix House Florida, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Phoenix House Florida website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services provided by Phoenix House Florida or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.