What Happens to Your Body During Opioid withdrawal?

Thursday, January 11, 2018 | By JP Emerald Coast

The Opioid Epidemic has affected millions of families across the nation. Some become physically dependent from overuse of a prescription and may go through opioid withdrawal when they try to quit. Some with legitimate chronic pain issues get to a point where they need to find an alternative, and others become addicted to heroin. It can be overwhelming to find a solution to this problem. But help is available.

Although the causes and effects range widely with the different types of opioid addiction, the physical symptoms will fall on the same spectrum. And Opioid withdrawal can be very uncomfortable, especially for those whose bodies have become accustomed to heavy doses of opioid drugs.

Developing an Addiction

 Some common opioid prescriptions are Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Codeine (usually in prescription cough syrup), OxyContin, Opana, and Morphine.

Opioid addiction manifests itself in different people for a variety of reasons. These can be attributed to physical pain, psychological complications, mental health issues, and/or traumatic experiences.

It’s difficult to pinpoint a root cause for any one individual so it’s important to treat every symptom that accompanies the addiction. Individualized care is crucial.

Often, people are not prepared for an event like this to appear. Here you will find information that helps navigating the process easier.

Below are details on what withdrawal does to the body and how to combat the more uncomfortable physical symptoms.

Early Effects of Withdrawal

Some of the initial symptoms are:

  • Anxiety
  • Muscle Tension
  • Sweating
  • Runny Nose and Teary Eyes
  • Yawning
  • Insomnia
  • And intense craving

These symptoms begin relatively quickly, depending on the dosage, in a range of 12-24 hours. It is at this point that it would be recommended for a patient to seek professional medical help at a local hospital, detox, or treatment center.

Looking for Opioid Addiction Help in Panama City Beach, Florida?

Our JourneyPure Emerald Coast admissions team is here to help. We can be reached at (850)424-1923 for a free consultation. We will answer all the questions that you have concerning yourself or your loved one’s recovery and can assist in finding the best treatment plan even if it isn’t with us.

Later Effects of Withdrawal

As detox progresses, the process becomes more uncomfortable. A patient in detox may experience:

  • Dilated Pupils
  • Elevated Blood Pressure
  • Gastro-intestinal distress (Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
  • Goosebumps
  • Fever
  • And hopelessness.

Often patients feel as if there is no end in sight. All of these symptoms are lessened and treated if proper medical attention is provided. And life becomes so much better once the full detox process has concluded.

PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome)

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, commonly called PAWS, is a state that frequently occurs in patients between 2 to 8 weeks after last use and can continue for several months after that. They generally interfere with an individual’s early recovery but are mostly psychological in nature. They can manifest as mood, diet, sleep, or social issues that create stress in a person’s life. They are temporary and will subside as one continues to stay sober and work towards recovery.

Opioid Withdrawal and Treatment Options

JourneyPure is one of the leading treatment providers of the South-east. We have Residential Inpatient facilities in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Florida with outpatient clinics all over the southeast. We take great pride in our ability to meet every patient’s needs and provide them with the personalized and individual care that they need. We provide medical detox, one on one therapy, intensive group support therapy, and a dignified approach to aftercare so that our alumni can return to their lives happily and without anxiety.

Opioid Addiction Treatment in Panama City Beach, Florida

Ready for treatment? Your journey begins with the admissions team at 800-338-5770. Call JourneyPure Emerald Coast today to find the best treatment approach for your specific needs. Your treatment and continuing care is our top priority.

 

 

 

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