Heroin continues to fuel the opioid epidemic as a powerful drug that people turn to after developing a dependence on their prescription opioids or for a temporary escape from chronic stress or mental health conditions. This easily accessible street drug has devastating effects on the mind and body. If you or someone you love finds themselves in the grip of heroin addiction, it is imperative that you seek professional help.
Overcome heroin addiction at Right Step Hill Country. Reach out at 1.844.675.1628 to speak to a member of our team about our heroin addiction treatment options.
How Does Heroin Affect the Body?
Heroin is a highly addictive and illegal opioid derived from morphine. It is typically smoked, snorted, or injected, rapidly entering the brain and central nervous system. Once in the body, heroin binds to opioid receptors and affects the body in the following ways:
Euphoria
The primary reason people access heroin is for its euphoric effects. The drug induces feelings of intense pleasure and euphoria, which lend to its addictive nature.
Pupil Constriction
A person under the influence of heroin will have characteristic pinpoint pupils. This can temporarily impact their vision, particularly in dimmer light. Long-term heroin abuse can lead to vision loss.
Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Heroin can trigger gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and constipation.
Respiratory Depression
As a central nervous system depressant, heroin slows down the body’s functions. This can include slowing down one’s breathing, which can be fatal.
Organ Damage
The liver is the organ primarily responsible for processing toxins like heroin. However, the potency of opioids can overload the liver and cause impairments. Heroin can also lead to infections of the eyes, kidneys, heart, and lungs.
Weakened Immune System
Opioids like heroin can take a toll on the immune system, making a person more vulnerable to infections and diseases.
Common Signs of Heroin Abuse
If you think someone in your life is abusing heroin, it is important to educate yourself about the signs. The following are some common signs of heroin abuse:
- Changes in appearance – You may notice track marks or scars on their arms if they inject heroin. They may also start to slack on personal hygiene and lose weight very quickly.
- Behavioral changes – The person might start to withdraw from socializing and change their habits or routines. You may also notice sudden shifts in their personality.
- Mood swings – Heroin abuse can lead to irritability and increased aggression.
- Trouble at work or home – When a person abuses heroin, they can find it difficult to keep up with their personal and professional responsibilities. They may start to prioritize drug use over showing up to work on time or following through on household or childcare duties.
- Financial problems – If a person is dependent on heroin, they may spend large sums of money to obtain more of the drug. They may be unable to keep up with their bills, ask family or friends for money, or even steal money from others to support their addiction.
If the above signs sound familiar, it’s likely time to talk to your loved one about getting help for their heroin addiction before it causes even more havoc. Encourage them to enroll in a heroin addiction treatment program where they will receive medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and therapies to help address the reasons behind their heroin abuse.
Call Right Step Hill Country Today
The consequences of heroin abuse are undeniable, but it can be challenging to quit once you have developed an addiction. Right Step Hill Country can guide you on your path to recovery. Call us at 1.844.675.1628 or submit our online contact form today.