The human brain has its own special opioid receptors that are there to attach to the body’s naturally occurring opioid-like substances. These natural opioids are pumped out by the brain when someone is confronted by pain or injury, or to combat depression. When you use an opioid created from the opium plant or synthesized in a lab, the same receptors are activated, though the effects are much stronger. Eventually, the body becomes tolerant of the opioids and requires more of them to achieve the effect desired. At this point, addiction is close at hand. Opioid rehab in Rehrersberg, PA, for treating opioid withdrawal, is the safest way to sever the ties to this dangerously addictive drug.
Opioids can be prescription painkillers, heroin, or many other drugs of varying levels of potency. When the euphoria of the high takes a back seat to the negative mental and physical effects of opioids, it’s time to look for professional help. At Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge (PAATC), we offer inpatient and outpatient rehab, medically managed detox, faith-based programs, and a range of evidence-based treatments. Call us today at 844.442.8673 or use our online form to connect to a professional today.
Opioid Addiction
Addiction can start with a doctor-prescribed painkiller after surgery or a severe injury or from dabbling recreationally with drugs. Many people don’t realize the risks of opioid abuse, tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
Common medical-grade opioids include fentanyl and oxycodone. Morphine, an opium derivative, is still used in healthcare settings for pain relief, though heroin, a more potent opium derivative, is not. Patients who become hooked on Oxy, for example, may eventually turn to heroin because it’s easy to acquire and cheaper on the street than prescription drugs.
The physical effects of opioids are caused by the release of endorphins in the brain. The effects include:
- Euphoria and pleasure
- Dulled pain
- Sense of well-being
- Relaxation
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Suppressed respiration
The slope from use to addiction is slippery. Once someone is addicted, stopping use leads quickly to withdrawal symptoms which involve mental, physical, and psychological distress.
Opioid Withdrawal Signs
As the drug leaves your system, the body and mind react swiftly to the change in the body’s chemical balance. Because your body has become dependent on the drug, you aren’t in control of what happens—the train has left the station and your body must rid itself of the drug fully to be done with the symptoms of withdrawal. Withdrawal from opioids includes:
- Diarrhea, belly cramps, and vomiting
- Anxiety
- Body aches and cramps
- Profuse sweating
- Fever
- Hypertension
- Dilated pupils and light sensitivity
- Rapid heart rate and breathing
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Tremors
Signs appear within eight to 12 hours after the last dose. Medically supervised and managed detox is the best option for getting through withdrawal without relapsing.
Treating Opioid Withdrawal
Because withdrawal is intensely uncomfortable, both physically and psychologically, the risk of relapse is very high. People trying to quit know they can stop the symptoms by using. There is a better way, however.
In a professional detox center, you will be under the care of doctors and medical staff who can alleviate your symptoms with safe medications. That way, you can get through the hardest part of withdrawal, rid yourself of all traces of opioids, and be ready for rehab treatment. Not only do you have medications to ease your transition, but you also have round-the-clock access to compassionate therapists and other caregivers who can help you with the emotional and psychological upset that comes with withdrawal.
PAATC – Opioid Rehab in Rehrersberg, PA
At PAATC, we pride ourselves on treating opioid withdrawal with both leading-edge science and the utmost compassion. Our therapists and staff are available to answer your questions about treating opioid withdrawal, tips for easing the transition from abuse to sobriety, and how to get started on your recovery journey.
Reach out today by calling us at 844.442.8673 or submitting this online form.
