While some opioid painkillers are legal and even prescribed by a doctor to help clients manage pain, heroin is illegal. Also an opioid painkiller, heroin use can damage the body and is illegal and potentially deadly.
Learn more about the dangers of heroin use and how to get clean by speaking with an admissions coordinator at Next Wind Recovery, where we help our clients find their second wind with motivational recovery and commitment to a sober future.
Check out the recovery process for heroin addiction today with Next Wind Recovery. Next Wind Recovery is a top-rated drug rehab in New Jersey that can help you overcome opioid abuse.
What is Heroin?
Heroin is an illegal drug that is derived from morphine, which is a substance that is naturally found in the opium poppy plant. The drug is usually sold as a white or brownish powder or black sticky substance known as black tar heroin. Heroin is generally injected, smoked, or snorted. Heroin is highly addictive and can lead to several physical and psychological problems.
Heroin use has become a significant public health crisis in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heroin use has increased significantly in the United States since 2002. In 2018, an estimated 808,000 people in the United States aged 12 or older had used heroin in the past year.
Heroin use can lead to addiction, a chronic disease that can be difficult to treat. In addition, people who are addicted to heroin may experience many physical and psychological symptoms that can have a significant impact on their health and well-being.
How Heroin Affects the Brain and Body
Heroin is a powerful drug that affects the brain and body in several ways. When heroin is used, it rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier and binds to opioid receptors in the brain. When heroin binds to the pain receptors, it produces a rush of euphoria, or a “high,” lasting several hours.
The drug also slows down the body’s central nervous system, which can lead to a number of physical symptoms. These can include slowed breathing, decreased heart rate, and decreased blood pressure. Heroin use can also cause nausea, vomiting, and dry mouth.
Over time, heroin use can lead to physical dependence, a state in which the body has adapted to the presence of the drug. This physical dependence means that when a person stops using heroin, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening.
Behavioral and Social Symptoms of Heroin Addiction
In addition to physical symptoms, heroin addiction can cause several behavioral symptoms. These can include changes in social interactions and problems with work, school, and relationships.
People who are addicted to heroin may become withdrawn and may lose interest in activities that they used to enjoy. They may also experience problems with their memory and concentration, making it difficult to perform well at work or school.
Heroin addiction can also cause changes in social interactions. People addicted to heroin may begin to spend more time alone or with other people who use the drug. They may also withdraw from family and friends and stop participating in activities they used to enjoy.
Heroin addiction can also cause problems in relationships. People addicted to heroin may become more distant from their partners and begin to have intimacy problems. They may also become more argumentative and may have trouble communicating effectively.
Long-Term Effects of Heroin Addiction
Heroin addiction can have several long-term effects on the body and mind. Over time, heroin use can lead to a number of physical problems, including liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, heart disease, and infectious diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis C.
Heroin addiction can also have several psychological effects. People addicted to heroin may experience problems with memory, attention, and decision-making. They may also become more prone to depression and anxiety and have trouble maintaining healthy relationships.
Heroin Addiction Treatment at Next Wind Recovery
Heroin addiction is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. If you or someone you know is struggling with heroin addiction, it’s essential to seek help as soon as possible. With the proper treatment and support, it is possible to overcome addiction and live a healthy, sober life. Contact a professional drug rehab center like Next Wind Recovery to learn how we can help you or your loved one get clean and stay sober.
Next Wind Recovery offers numerous paths to recovery through every step of the recovery process. Our medical professionals are ready and willing to support you or your loved one through detoxification and withdrawal, each level of addiction treatment care, and even long-term aftercare. We believe in the power of consistency and are dedicated to our client’s recovery. Contact Next Wind Recovery today to learn more about our addiction treatment services in New Jersey.
