Can you die from heroin withdrawal? Although it is rare, it is possible to die from severe heroin withdrawal symptoms if you have a severe or long-term addiction to the drug. Some of the leading causes of death during detox include electrolyte imbalance or extreme dehydration due to diarrhea and vomiting.
With the threat of health complications or fatality, you should avoid detoxing from heroin at home. Doing so can put you at risk of death. Attempting withdrawal on your own also increases your chances of relapse. A better option is to seek help from a South Florida detox center like Summit Detox. You receive quality care from treatment professionals who can guide you through the detox process.
What is Heroin Withdrawal?
Withdrawal is the process of flushing the heroin toxins out of your body while healing from your addiction. It is the first step in a heroin addiction treatment program and necessary for your recovery. Detox typically lasts seven to 14 days, with withdrawal symptoms peaking between days five and seven. Withdrawal can be painful and cause moderate to severe discomfort. Symptoms may be similar to how you feel when you have the flu.
Withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Sweating
- Vomiting
- Agitation
- Muscle aches
- Insomnia
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
In the most severe cases, heroin withdrawal symptoms may include dehydration, high blood pressure, elevated heart rate, seizures, and psychosis. You may experience hallucinations or nightmares. Detox can also disrupt sleep and cause you to lose your appetite.
Treatment for Heroin Addiction
Treatment for heroin addiction begins with a heroin detox program. Detox services are designed to keep you safe and comfortable during withdrawal so that you complete the program and transition into rehab. Early treatment for withdrawal includes:
- Medication-Assisted Treatment: One of the safest solutions for drug withdrawal is mediation-assisted treatment (MAT). Medication such as methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making detox more tolerable. Naltrexone blocks the effects of heroin on the brain, making it impossible to get high if you relapse.
- Emergency Care: With the risk of fatality or health problems associated with heroin withdrawal, detox centers in Florida provide emergency medical assistance inside the facility. A fully licensed medical staff is on-hand to provide immediate care if you have a medical emergency. You can feel confident that you are in safe hands during detox.
- Comfortable Facilities: Detox facilities today offer comfortable bedrooms complete with a variety of amenities. Instead of a cold, institutional environment, your room will be more aesthetically pleasing and feel like a home away from home. When you are in a warm and comfortable environment, you are more likely to have a positive client experience.
- Capable and Responsive Staff: When you check into a detox center, you work with a professional staff that genuinely cares about your recovery. All staff is licensed and trained to handle the most severe heroin withdrawal cases. Staff will be available 24-7 to provide ongoing supervision and support. You never have to feel that you are alone when struggling with withdrawal symptoms.
Once you complete your detox, you will have the option of transitioning into residential or outpatient rehab. Addiction treatment centers in Florida provide evidence-based and holistic therapy that treats your addiction and any mental health issue you are currently dealing with.
Learn More About Heroin Withdrawal at Summit Detox
Heroin withdrawal is a challenging time causing many individuals to relapse or otherwise struggle to find the help they need to recover. However, with the right support, individuals can make it through and heal. Find the answers at Summit Detox. We offer a comprehensive treatment program that includes detox. Call Summit Detox at (888) 995-5265 or contact us at your earliest convenience to explore your treatment options and get started with detox today. We are here to help you get on the road to recovery.
