Learn to Recognize the Signs of Opioid Addiction
When a person close to us is abusing drugs or alcohol, we are often quick to deny the extent to which they have gotten involved with a substance and how badly it’s affecting their lives. It can be tough to recognize the signs of opioid addiction.
This process goes for individuals using both illegal and pharmaceutical drugs in the category. Opioid users will always need to increase their dosage over time once they have become addicted, but this can happen slowly. There are both physical and behavioral signs of opioid addiction that you should be on the lookout for if you suspect a friend or loved one is abusing opioids.
Physical Signs of Opioid Addiction
Physical signs of opioid addiction can be things you may notice right after an individual uses one of the drugs in the category and over the long-term as a person progresses in their habit of abuse. Some physical signs can be similar to everyday disorders, and someone struggling with substance abuse may try and use this as a cover for their drug use. Here are some physical signs of opioid addiction:
- “Track Marks” or scars from intravenous use in arms, hands, or other parts of the body
- Lack of coordination
- Constipation
- Nodding off
- Sedation, drowsiness, lack of energy
- Nausea, vomiting
- Itching or constant scratching
- Slowed, shallow breathing
- Very small pupils
Behavioral Signs of Opioid Addiction
Whenever someone is abusing drugs or alcohol, there are often significant and minor changes in their behavior. Simply put, beyond the other behavioral signs of opioid addiction listed below, an individual needs to procure and take time to use, which were not part of their everyday activities before abusing one or more substances.
Here are some behavioral signs of opioid addiction to look out for if you think a loved one may be abusing one of the substances in the category:
- “Doctor shopping” or visiting multiple doctors to obtain prescriptions for opioids.
- Changes in habits or routines (this can include adding time to normal activities to make up for drug purchasing and use).
- Sudden financial problems, seeking quick cash
- Legal issues, arrests
- Dishonesty, secrecy
- Sudden, dramatic mood swings
- Using more medication than prescribed
- Inability to fulfill commitments
- Issues with work, family, and friends
- Avoiding social situations, isolation
- Noticeable elation or euphoria
All of the signs of opioid addiction can occur no matter whether a person uses a drug for recreational or medical reasons. Opioids are powerful substances and even when taken as directed, can be addictive. If you are taking an opioid for pain management purposes as directed by your doctor, notify them immediately if there’s a change in how you are responding to the medication.
Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
A person experiencing withdrawal symptoms is a sign of addiction, and this includes individuals abusing opioids. Some of the opioid withdrawal symptoms are common to other categories of drugs, too, and some, while not life-threatening, can endanger a person’s overall health. Here are some common opioid withdrawal symptoms:
- Gooseflesh
- Lack of energy, fatigue, yawning
- Sleeplessness
- Stomach cramps
- Leg cramps
- Nausea, vomiting
- Sweating
- Preoccupation with obtaining more drugs
- Runny nose, tearing
- Restlessness
- Irritability, anxiety
- Shaking, tremors
Opioid and Prescription Drug Rehab at Pacific Manor Recovery
Opioid addiction, including prescription medications, has become an epidemic in the United States. At Pacific Manor Recovery, we take opioid and prescription drug rehab very seriously and have various treatment options available. No one should have to go through drug detox and rehab on their own, and at Pacific Manor Recovery, we have the resources necessary to help anyone who is committed to making a change in their life. Call us today at (888) 300-4370 to find out more about everything we have to offer.
The post 20 Signs of Opioid Addiction appeared first on Pacific Manor Recovery.
source https://pacificmanorrecovery.com/20-signs-of-opioid-addiction/
No comments:
Post a Comment