If you feel that it is time to stop using opioids and break free from addiction, the first step is going through a detoxification process. What is opioid detox, and, more specifically, what is opioid withdrawal? If you have been using opioids for a long time and have developed an addiction, then stopping suddenly will have a jarring effect on your body. As a result, you may go through opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal symptoms occur as a result of your body removing the toxins and healing from the damage that opioids have caused. While the process of recovery can last a lifetime, detox only lasts a few days. However, those few days can be intense, causing discomfort, irritability, and some pain. Let’s learn more about the withdrawal symptoms below.
What the Body Goes Through During Detox
You may believe that when you stop taking opioids that the side effects go away. Eventually, they do fade out; however, not before causing a range of withdrawal symptoms. Why do withdrawal symptoms occur?
The longer you take opioids such as prescription medication or illicit drugs, the more your body builds a tolerance to the substance. As a result, you may increase your dosage so that you can continue feeling the effects of the drug. This increase in dosage may eventually lead to addiction or dependency.
When you suddenly stop using the drug, your brain and central nervous system have to adjust to functioning without the substance. This creates a reversal that leads to both physical and psychological side effects. The side effects may last three days to two weeks.
Common Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms range from mild to severe and create both discomfort and pain that eventually peaks and then fades away. Some of the most common opioid withdrawal symptoms include:
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches
- Sweating or chills
- Restlessness or anxiety
- Runny nose
- Teary eyes
In more severe cases, you may experience abdominal cramping, high blood pressure, seizures, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, or mild hallucinations. You will probably also have intense cravings that will not go away for several days. The good news is that you don’t have to be alone when you are going through detox.
Opioid Detox Centers in Florida
Instead of trying to detox from drugs and alcohol on your own, your smartest option is to go through withdrawal symptoms at a detox center in Florida. A detox center gives you lots of options for treatment that may include medication, holistic care, a comfortable environment, and a full professional staff that can monitor your progress 24/7.
A center allows you to detox safely so you don’t have to worry about the worst withdrawal symptoms. You can get the care you need from treatment specialists who provide support and quality treatment.
Get Help Today for Opioid Addiction
Summit Detox offers a variety of treatments for opioid addiction. If you are ready to get help for your addiction, contact us by calling (888) 995-5265. We can answer your questions, discuss your opioid withdrawal symptoms, and get you started with treatment today.