Heroin use has a long history in the United States, with several distinct periods of epidemic heroin use: in the 1930s and 40s, during the Vietnam War, and again beginning around 2010. Heroin is cheap and easily accessible, making it the most widely abused opioid among people from all walks of life.
Heroin is one of the most potent drugs available today, second only to fentanyl. If you or someone you know struggles with heroin addiction, you understand how destructive it is and how hard it is to quit. At Recovery Ranch PA, we understand the challenges of overcoming heroin addiction but know that recovery is possible. Our heroin addiction treatment program provides comprehensive, holistic treatment to help heal the physical, mental, and spiritual damage caused by heroin addiction. Call 717.969.9126 or contact us online to start treatment today.
5 Ways Heroin Affects the Body
Heroin is a powerful opioid that works by attaching to opioid receptors, releasing an intense rush of dopamine and creating intense euphoria. Every time heroin is used, tolerance increases, meaning higher and higher doses are needed to achieve the desired effects.
Heroin use often begins after someone has developed a dependency on prescription painkillers and can no longer get or afford them. Heroin use is also common among individuals who are seeking to escape the psychological pain associated with trauma. No matter how it begins, heroin use can quickly escalate out of control.
The immediate, short-term effects of heroin can include the following:
- A euphoric rush, usually lasting between three to five hours
- Slowed breathing and heart rate
- Warm, flushed skin
- Intense itching
- Heaviness in arms and legs
The risks of overdose and unintentional death are high. Heroin is frequently cut with fentanyl, which is up to 50 times more potent than heroin, further increasing these dangers.
Potential Long-Term Effects of Heroin Addiction
Chronic heroin use can result in significant long-term effects, including:
- Skin abscesses and infections
- Hepatitis
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Heart and lung infections
- HIV
- Collapsed veins
- Chronic constipation
- Arthritis/rheumatological issues
- Miscarriages and infertility
- Brain damage
Individuals struggling with heroin addiction often have other substance use disorders. Heroin is extremely dangerous on its own and becomes more so when mixed with alcohol or other drugs.
How Heroin Abuse Impacts Mental Health
Many people who abuse heroin have underlying mental health conditions that perpetuate the cycle of addiction. Heroin abuse has profound impacts on mental health and long-term emotional well-being, including:
- Depression – Depressive disorders are common among heroin users and are exacerbated by the chemical imbalances the heroin use creates. Because the brain becomes dependent on heroin to produce serotonin and dopamine, depression symptoms are more pronounced when not using heroin.
- Anxiety – Symptoms of anxiety, including panic attacks, increase with heroin abuse. Anticipation of withdrawal symptoms is a significant contributor to fueling the cycle of addiction.
- Psychosis – Chronic heroin abuse can induce paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions. A loss of touch with reality can lead to unsafe behaviors.
- Suicidal ideation – Feelings of hopelessness and despair increase as heroin addiction progresses, contributing to a significantly high risk of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988.
Heroin abuse causes extreme mood swings. Feelings of euphoria associated with being high on heroin quickly turn to irritability, agitation, and sadness when it wears off. Heroin can also cause emotional numbness or detachment, making it difficult to feel compassion, empathy, or guilt and straining relationships.
Call Recovery Ranch PA for Effective Heroin Addiction Treatment
Recovery from heroin addiction takes commitment and time. In heroin addiction treatment at Recovery Ranch PA, clients receive the highest-quality professional treatment, with support from a community of peers who can relate to the challenges of heroin addiction.
Our experienced, compassionate treatment team is dedicated to providing holistic, evidence-based care in a luxury setting with various amenities to make your time here comfortable and engaging. Choosing heroin addiction treatment means choosing life. Contact our team online or call 717.969.9126 to take the first step today and enroll in treatment.