Opioid Addiction

What is Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction is when one becomes physically and psychologically dependent on opioids, which are powerful pain-relieving drugs. Opioids include prescription painkillers like oxycodone and hydrocodone and illicit drugs like heroin. 

When opioids attach to Opioid receptors in the brain, they effectively block pain signals and create a sense of euphoria. However, continued use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. 

Opioid addiction is a serious and complex health issue that can devastate a person’s physical and mental well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. It often requires a comprehensive Opioid abuse treatment program involving medical intervention, counseling, therapy, and support to address the physical and psychological aspects of Opioid addiction and aid individuals in achieving long-term recovery.

Warning Signs of Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction poses a significant challenge, impacting countless lives. Recognizing the warning signs is essential for seeking Opioid addiction treatment.

1. Increased Tolerance: Developing a tolerance to Opioids, requiring higher doses for the same effect, is a sign of addiction. It indicates the body’s adaptation to the drug’s presence.
2. Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms when trying to reduce or stop opioid use indicates addiction. Symptoms may include restlessness, nausea, sweating, and anxiety.
3. Obsession with Obtaining Opioids: Constantly thinking about acquiring Opioids, engaging in doctor shopping, or manipulating prescriptions to ensure a supply are behaviors associated with addiction. The intense focus on obtaining the drug becomes a priority over other aspects of life.
4. Neglecting Responsibilities: Opioid addiction can lead to neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities. As the addiction takes hold, individuals may become unreliable, miss deadlines, or fail to fulfill obligations.
5. Social Isolation: Withdrawing from social activities and isolating oneself from friends and family is a common warning sign. Opioid addiction often leads to strained relationships and a desire to avoid judgment or confrontation.
6. Physical Changes: Opioid addiction can cause noticeable physical changes. Dilated or pinpoint pupils, sudden weight loss, drowsiness, or slurred speech may indicate opioid use and potential addiction.

Health Complications with Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction brings with it a range of severe health complications. From respiratory problems and overdose risks to infectious diseases and hormonal imbalances, understanding these risks is crucial in seeking effective opioid recovery.

1. Respiratory Problems: Opioid use can depress the central nervous system, slowing breathing and increasing the risk of respiratory distress, including shallow breathing or respiratory arrest.
2. Overdose: Opioid overdose is a life-threatening emergency resulting in respiratory failure, unconsciousness, and even death. 
3. Infectious Diseases: Sharing needles or engaging in unsafe injection practices can lead to transmitting bloodborne infections such as HIV and hepatitis C, further complicating the health of individuals struggling with opioid addiction.
4. Gastrointestinal Issues: Opioid use can cause constipation, which can become chronic and severe. Prolonged constipation may lead to bowel obstruction, hemorrhoids, or other gastrointestinal complications.
5. Hormonal Imbalances: Opioid addiction can disturb the endocrine system’s regular functioning, leading to hormone levels imbalances. This can lead to sexual dysfunction, reproductive issues, and irregularities in menstrual cycles.
6. Liver Damage: High doses of certain Opioids, especially when combined with alcohol, can harm the liver and lead to liver damage, hepatitis, liver failure, and cirrhosis.

Seek professional help and reclaim your life from addiction. Contact our specialized treatment center at (626)-792-8797 for Opioid addiction counseling, compassionate care, evidence-based treatments, and a supportive pathway to lasting recovery. Your Opioid Rehab Los Angeles center is just a phone call away.