Heroin is a dangerous opioid, and overcoming an addiction to heroin is a tremendous challenge. Learning the signs of heroin use may give you the tools you need to help a loved one suffering with a heroin addiction. Once you recognize it, you can encourage them to get help through rehab and continuing care.
Do you or a loved one need heroin addiction rehab? Call us today at 866.957.7885 for more information.
The Physical Signs of Heroin Addiction
Often one of the most straightforward methods to identify if an individual is using heroin is by observing the distinct physical effects of this drug. A person’s appearance will likely undergo noticeable changes as they progressively develop a heroin addiction.
The specific physical signs of heroin addiction can vary from one person to another, reflecting the uniqueness of each individual’s experience. Nevertheless, several common physical symptoms can serve as indicators. These include but are not limited to:
- Constricted or pinpoint pupils, referred to as miosis, are a characteristic effect of heroin use
- Frequent runny nose, as the drug can cause chronic nasal congestion and irritation
- Flushed or reddened skin, even in cooler weather conditions, which may result from the drug’s impact on blood flow and circulation
- Slowed breathing or respiratory depression, a dangerous effect that can lead to life-threatening complications
- A tendency to fall asleep or nod off during conversations or activities, which can be attributed to the sedative properties of heroin
- Noticeable and rapid weight loss, often accompanied by a decline in overall physical health and well-being
By recognizing and understanding these physical manifestations, it becomes possible to identify potential heroin addiction and offer appropriate support and intervention.
Behavioral Symptoms of Heroin Use
Heroin addicts may also display certain behavioral traits that give away their reliance on opiate drugs. For example, they may complain of digestive distress, notably constipation, or spend a lot of time in the bathroom. They may also feel nauseous on a regular basis, vomit frequently and prefer not to eat large amounts of food.
Other physical manifestations of a heroin addiction can include scratching more often or wearing long sleeves in hot climates to hide needle marks. Individuals using heroin are also prone to slurring their speech.
People addicted to heroin may also isolate themselves from family and friends, as well as neglect work or school obligations. In addition, they could engage in criminal activity to get money to buy drugs. They may also steal to get money for their habit. Behavioral symptoms of a heroin addiction can be difficult to spot, but there are some common indicators that family and friends can look out for. If you are concerned that someone you know may be addicted to heroin, it is important to get them help as soon as possible. Heroin addiction is a serious problem that can lead to death.
Changes in Personality and Priorities
Whether individuals are struggling with addiction to heroin or another substance, they generally undergo some extreme changes. These can influence personality, appearance, career, relationships and finances.
For example, a person using heroin may struggle to get to work on time, or they may be fired from their job. They may also begin to avoid family members and become far less outgoing than normal. Problems in personal relationships and drastic changes in appearance are just a few more signs that a person may be struggling with an addiction to a drug like heroin.
Paraphernalia Related to Heroin Use
Another sign that someone in your life is using heroin is poorly hidden heroin paraphernalia. This drug can be snorted, injected or smoked, so paraphernalia can vary. If you notice any of the following, however, your loved one may be affected by a heroin addiction:
- Burnt spoons
- Small, clear plastic baggies
- Rubber tubing
- Syringes
- Small glass pipes
- Either sticky brown residue or white powder residue
If you identify these common signs of heroin use, seeking help has to be a priority. In San Antonio, Texas, San Antonio Recovery Center offers a range of treatment programs to aid in recovery.
Heroin Addiction Treatment is the Next Logical Step to Recover
Detoxification is the first step in treating heroin addiction. During this process, the body clears itself of the drug. This can be accomplished through tapering, which reduces the amount of heroin taken over time, or through rapid detox, which uses medication to quickly remove the drug from the body.
After detoxification, counseling and behavioral therapies can help people recovering from heroin addiction learn how to manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. These therapies can also teach people skills to prevent them from relapsing into drug use.
Medications may also be used to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. These medications can include buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. Each of these medications works in different ways to reduce the symptoms of withdrawal and craving, making it easier for people to stay in treatment and recover from heroin addiction.
Substance Addictions Treated at San Antonio Recovery Center
At San Antonio Recovery Center, we treat a wide variety of substances. No matter what substance you’ve abused, we’re ready to help you start your road to recovery. From alcohol to cocaine to prescription drugs, San Antonio Recovery Center has the treatment you need to succeed. Substance addictions treated at San Antonio Recovery Center include but aren’t limited to:
- Adderall
- Alcohol
- Ambien
- Benzo
- Cocaine
- Crack
- Crystal Meth
- Fentanyl
- Heroin
- Hydrocodone
- Klonopin
- Marijuana
- MDMA
- Methadone
- Opiates
- Opioids
- Oxycodone
- Percocet
- Polysubstance Addiction
- Tramadol
- Valium
- Vicodin
Call 866.957.7885 and gain the tools and resources required to end addiction once and for all.
