Heroin is an incredibly addictive and dangerous drug that comes along with a host of harmful effects. Even a first-time user runs the risk of overdose, and when left untreated, heroin abuse in Hattiesburg area can lead to devastating mental and physical effects. When you consider the fact that the number of deaths from heroin overdose has increased, the need for a heroin rehab intervention if you’re facing addiction is even more dire.
Here are just a few of the effects that heroin can have on your body:
Short Term Effects
Short-term effects are usually immediate and create feelings of pleasure, as the drug affects dopamine levels and your central nervous system. This immediate effect is what makes the drug so highly addicting. The danger comes in the fact that these effects only last for a few minutes, thus increasing the user’s drive for another high. These effects include:
- Euphoria
- Lethargy
- Reduced sensation of pain
- Drowsiness
Side Effects and Dependence
Over time and with repeated usage, the pleasure of the high from heroine will be replaced with the unpleasant long-term side effects of addiction. These effects are also indicators that your body has become dependent upon the drug, and suffers in its absence. Other side effects include:
- Restlessness
- Racing or pounding heart
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Aches and pains
- Insomnia
- Trembling and sweating
Long Term Effects
Long-term effects of heroin use are exceedingly dangerous, and in many cases are just as life threatening as the potential for accidental overdose:
- Lack of oxygen to the brain
- Liver and kidney damage
- Increased risk of various infections
- Weakened immune system
- Malnutrition
- Poor dental health
- Itchy skin, and raw and irritated skin from repeated scratching
- Insomnia
Mental effects include:
- Depression and anxiety
- Memory loss
- Obsession with the substance and its continued use
Once this point has been reached during addiction, it’s time to seek out professional help: The Drug and Alcohol Detox Clinic is our long-term drug treatment facility. Stay up to date with Drug and Alcohol Detox Clinic if you or someone you know is suffering from these effects. Call us today at (601) 261-9101.
Seeking Help
The dangers of heroin addiction are very real, and if you find yourself becoming depending on the drug, urgent care is necessary. There is no shame in seeking help. Contact our rehab facility for professional assistance, break the cycle, and fight back against addiction.
Heroin addiction is life-threatening, but recovery is possible. Contact Drug and Alcohol Detox Clinic today to learn how we can help.