Polysubstance abuse is when an individual mixes substances in order to enhance the effects of one of the substances or to cope with withdrawal symptoms. Among the most dangerous combinations are heroin and fentanyl. The combination can significantly elevate the risk of fatal overdose. Understanding the extreme danger of combining substances can be helpful in preventing fatalities and in encouraging those affected to seek treatment.
For individuals caught in this dangerous cycle of polysubstance abuse, seeking expert care, such as heroin rehab in Texas, is a life-saving decision. Call 1.844.675.1628 today for the help you or your loved one needs.
Understanding Heroin and Fentanyl
Heroin is a highly addictive opioid that’s widely known. However, Fentanyl has been, until recent years, a lesser-known substance. This synthetic opioid is significantly more potent than heroin and is intended for pain management in hospitals. However, its illicit use has surged, often with deadly consequences. These substances are frequently misused by those seeking to intensify a high and unaware or dismissive of the elevated dangers.
The Dangers of Mixing Heroin and Fentanyl
Combining heroin and fentanyl exponentially increases the risk of overdose due to their impact on the central nervous system. This potent mix can severely depress respiration, leading to unconsciousness, brain damage, or even death. Recognizing the signs of an overdose from heroin and fentanyl can be what saves someone’s life. Here are some key indicators to be aware of:
- Unresponsiveness – The person may be unconscious or unable to wake up
- Slow or shallow breathing: – Breathing may be very slow, irregular, or stopped altogether
- Blue or gray skin tone – Lips and fingernails may turn blue or gray due to lack of oxygen
- Pinpoint pupils – Extremely small pupils are a common sign of opioid overdose
- Choking or gurgling sounds – An individual may make unusual sounds, indicating an airway obstruction
- Limp body – The person may be very limp and unable to move
- Cold or clammy skin – Someone’s skin may feel cold and clammy to the touch
- Slow heartbeat – Heart rate may be slow or irregular
If you suspect someone is overdosing, call emergency services immediately and, if available, administer naloxone (Narcan), a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
Polysubstance Abuse: A Growing Concern
The combination of heroin and fentanyl can also exacerbate anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. Additionally, these drugs are often cut together with other substances by street dealers. The combinations are then more complex and entirely unpredictable. This leads to even more hazards as people can easily and unknowingly ingest mixtures that are completely toxic.
Polysubstance abuse is becoming more prevalent, posing significant challenges to treatment efforts. It complicates the detox process and requires a more complex approach to therapy, as different substances affect the brain and body in various ways.
But hope is within reach. Hill Country treatment offers a path forward. If you or someone you know is struggling with polysubstance abuse, now is the time to take action.
How Hill Country Can Help
Hill Country is well-equipped to address the unique challenges of heroin and fentanyl addiction through customized treatment programs. Our treatment center offers a variety of services designed to support recovery at every stage, including medically supervised detoxification to safely manage withdrawal symptoms. Our compassionate team provides inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation options, integrating therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to help clients develop effective coping mechanisms and resilience.
Call Hill Country Today for Heroin Rehab in Texas
Understanding the severe risks associated with mixing heroin and fentanyl can mean the difference between life and death. At Hill Country, we believe in a comprehensive approach to recovery, emphasizing not just sobriety but a happy, fulfilling life. We’ll help you get where you want to go.
Call 1.844.675.1628 today for unwaveringly supportive treatment or submit our online contact form.