Withdrawal from any drug isn’t a pleasant experience. As a matter of fact, the withdrawal process is one of the main things that scares people away from starting treatment. But there is a bit of good news.
Many of today’s treatment centers have found ways to make the detox period more manageable. With a combination of conventional medicine and alternative therapies, many of the unfavorable side effects and symptoms of heroin withdrawal can be successfully managed.
Still, it’s important to be aware of the process and what types of symptoms you or a loved one may experience. This is not to scare you but to make you better prepared for the situation.
In this article, we are going to go over the various detox symptoms and side effects that can be expected as part of the heroin withdrawal process.
Do remember this one thing: Once you are through this process, you don’t have to go back if you are able to stay clean and sober.
Acute Withdrawal Symptoms
Opioid withdrawal can start as soon as the body doesn’t have heroin. If you or your loved one has been without the drug before, you know exactly how this feels. The symptoms can last for 10 days or more and include:
- Insomnia
- Muscle cramps
- Bone and muscle pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Feelings of panic
- Loss of appetite
- Sweating
- Chills
- Tremors
Managing Symptoms During Detox
Detox programs are designed to limit the side effects of heroin withdrawal. Some of the symptoms can be very severe, which is why careful monitoring by medical professionals is crucial.
In addition to regular monitoring, the following types of treatments are offered at holistic detox programs like The River Source.
- Vitamin IV therapy
- B12 shots
- Acupuncture
- Amino acids
- Massage therapy
- Sauna treatments
- Physical manipulation
- Light exercise
- Counseling
Heroin Detox Time
The time required to fully detox from heroin varies based on the individual. Heroin remains in the body for up to 72 hours, and most acute withdrawal symptoms fade in this time period. Some can persist up to 10 days, and it’s not unheard of for them to last longer.
The psychological addiction and physical dependence on heroin can last for months or years, although this varies among individuals as well.
Heroin Withdrawal Complications
As long as you or your loved one is otherwise healthy, the detox process is not fatal.
There are severe acute symptoms that can occur such as dehydration, loss of fine motor control, tremors and other nervous system reactions. With careful monitoring and a combination of conventional and alternative medicine, these symptoms can be managed.
By the end of detox, you or your loved one will not have a need for heroin. You can begin counseling and start repairing your life.
If you would like to learn more about the detox process at The River Source and why it’s so successful, please call us today.
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