When someone decides to stop using drugs, they go through a withdrawal process. The heroin withdrawal timeline can vary because of someone’s health or addiction history. In general, most people will go through similar stages as they recover.
The Heroin Withdrawal Timeline
Once someone goes to a heroin addiction treatment center in NC, they begin the process of removing heroin and other chemicals from their body. Before treatment, the individual’s body and mind had a dependency on heroin. The body essentially needed heroin in order to feel normal.
When someone stops using drugs, their body has to readjust and learn how to live without those chemicals. Then, they begin the initial stages of the heroin withdrawal timeline. Heroin is a short-acting opioid, so it leaves the bloodstream fairly quickly. This means that withdrawal symptoms start about 6 to 12 hours after someone has their last dose.
The symptoms of the heroin withdrawal timeline peak after about two to three days later and in most cases, the individual may still have withdrawal symptoms for about 5 to 10 days after they stop using. These chemicals leave the body entirely in about five to seven days, but withdrawal symptoms may last for a bit longer.
What Are the Withdrawal Symptoms?
Once someone begins the heroin withdrawal timeline, they can experience a range of symptoms. The severity of symptoms depends on how dependent the individual’s mind and body are on the drug. This opiate can cause mild symptoms like sweating, nausea, chills or stomach cramps. The individual may experience a runny nose or muscle aches.
If the individual has a longer or more severe history of abuse, their symptoms may also be more severe. They may suffer from fatigue, vomiting, agitation or diarrhea. The individual may also experience restlessness, tremors and problems concentrating.
It is important to always go through detox with professional support because some of the symptoms can be serious. Severe withdrawal symptoms include hypertension, impaired breathing, muscle spasms, and a rapid heart rate. The individual may suffer from depression, insomnia or anxiety.
Because of these symptoms, individuals should seek out medical help before they go through withdrawal symptoms. A doctor can monitor the individual’s heart rate, temperature, blood pressure, and breathing. By monitoring the client’s symptoms, medical staff members can make sure that the individual goes through a safe, healthy withdrawal process.
Finding Support for an Addiction
Millions of Americans suffer from alcohol and drug addiction. Thankfully, there are many different treatment options available. At young adult rehab programs, individuals can get medical support, psychiatric assessments, and counseling as they recover. The right treatment program can help individuals become sober.
Each treatment program is different, but there are a few evidence-based programs that individuals should look for. Some of the best treatment centers offer options such as:
- Group counseling
- Family counseling
- Psychotherapy and psychiatric assessments
- Experiential therapy
- Adventure therapy
- Treatment for co-occurring disorders
- Individual therapy
- Eco-therapy
No one has to go through recovery alone. Through the support of peers, counselors and addiction specialists, you can begin your journey toward a better life. Discover how Red Oak Recovery® can help by calling us today at 866-457-7590.
