What Are The Signs of Heroin Addiction?

Heroin is a highly addictive drug that can have serious side effects when taken. A person addicted to heroin will exhibit different signs and symptoms, and learning about them can help someone get the help they need. In this article, we explore the signs and symptoms of heroin addiction and some of the ways that it can be addressed. 

Signs and Symptoms 

Heroin addiction can manifest in different ways. This section talks about the common signs and symptoms of heroin addiction. 

Physical Signs

Heroin directly impacts the body’s systems and organs, resulting in physical signs that show a person is using the drug. Some physical signs of a heroin addiction include:

• Track marks on the arms from the needles used to inject heroin.
• Constricted pupils, where the pupils don’t respond to the changes in light.
• Dry mouth or appearing dehydrated.
• Weight loss from decreased appetite and poor nutrition. 
• Drowsiness and falling in and out of consciousness.
• Respiratory issues or shallow breathing.
• Constipation due to slower movements in the digestive system.
• Slurred speech and impaired coordination.

Behavioural Signs

Heroin affects the brain’s reward system, so people who are addicted to it will do unimaginable things to keep using the drug. Their decision-making skills are affected. Abusing heroin will also lead to the following shifts in behaviour:

• Neglecting responsibilities, such as work, school, and other personal obligations.
• Increased secrecy about their activities and whereabouts.
• Erratic mood swings causing irritability or euphoria.
• Drastic changes in social circles.
• Social withdrawal and being distant from loved ones.
• Financial problems to continue funding their addiction. 
• Loss of interest in hobbies they used to enjoy.

Psychological Signs

Heroin alters the brain’s natural chemistry and structure, so people who abuse it will experience different psychological damages. It will be difficult for them to function normally and regulate their emotions.

Here are some psychological symptoms that show that a person is using heroin: 

• Depression
• Anxiety and paranoia
• Cognitive impairment
• Euphoria or intense relaxation
• Risky behaviour
• Increased sensitivity to stress
• Obsessive thoughts about heroin

What Is Heroin?

Heroin is an opioid drug that’s derived from morphine. When heroin is taken, it can result in euphoria and pain-relieving effects. People may snort, inject, or smoke heroin. All methods of administration are highly addictive. 

The drug is also a depressant. It slows down the central nervous system and results in reduced brain function. While the initial effects of heroin are euphoric, the depressant effects are what linger. As a result, people who use the drug may feel sluggish or mentally clouded. 

Heroin also has a high potential for abuse, and it’s even classified as a Schedule I drug. This means that there are no currently accepted medical uses for heroin.

What Makes Heroin Addictive?

When taken, heroin binds to opioid receptors and triggers a surge of dopamine. This is the neurotransmitter that’s responsible for reward and pleasure. 

Heroin use can make a person seek the feeling of euphoria again and again, encouraging repeated drug use. This positive reinforcement makes the brain rely on heroin to produce dopamine. Without the drug, people are unable to feel joy or pleasure from normal activities. 

Over time, this behaviour can cause dependence and tolerance. As people start to rely on the drug for pleasure, they will need increasing amounts of heroin to achieve the same effect. The body will depend on heroin for dopamine surges and eventually cause addiction. 

Addiction is incredibly difficult to break. Quitting heroin use when a person is addicted to it can cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Addiction also changes the brain structure, so professional help is needed to overcome it. 

Short-Term Effects of Heroin Abuse

People who abuse heroin will experience the following short-term effects:

• Euphoria
• Flushed skin
• Drowsiness
• Slowed breathing and heart rate
• Nausea 
• Vomiting

Long-Term Effects of Heroin Use

Repeated use of heroin can result in the following long-term effects:

• Physical dependence
• Respiratory issues, especially if the drug is smoked
• Organ damage
• Increased risk of infections
• Mental health disorders
• Cognitive impairment
• Risk of overdose and addiction

Signs of a Heroin Overdose

A heroin overdose is a serious effect of taking heroin. It’s when the body is overwhelmed with the drug’s presence that it causes organs to fail.

When a person is overdosing on heroin, they may show the following signs:

• Breathing becomes slower or may even stop entirely
• Skin turns blue or pale due to the lack of oxygen
• Loss of consciousness and unresponsiveness
• Irregular pulses
• In rare cases, seizures or convulsions may happen

If you think a person is experiencing an overdose, it’s important to call emergency services right away. An overdose can be life-threatening, and the lack of immediate medical care can cause irreversible damage or even death. 

How to Overcome a Heroin Addiction

To overcome a heroin addiction, it’s best to receive professional and comprehensive addiction treatment. Professionals can provide the proper treatment and therapies that can help a person overcome heroin addiction. 

One of the first steps of heroin addiction treatment is medical detox. Since heroin withdrawal can be distressing, a medically supervised detox can help manage withdrawal symptoms safely. 

After detox, rehab programmes provide a structured environment for patients to overcome heroin addiction. The programmes provide recovery and skill-building support for a sustainable recovery. They typically combine evidence-based therapies with holistic approaches for a more well-rounded approach.

Aside from professional treatment, building a life that focuses on long-term recovery is important. While professional treatment is essential for progress, aftercare programmes and relapse prevention plans minimise the risk of relapse for a sober life. 

Substance Abuse Treatment at Sierra Recovery

Drug abuse can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mind and body. Those who struggle with addiction may need professional help to overcome the said problem successfully.

Here at Sierra Recovery, we provide professional treatment for people struggling with heroin abuse and other harmful substances.  Our team will personalise each person’s treatment plan to fit their needs and goals. This helps them achieve long-lasting recovery and a more fulfilling life.

Contact us today to learn more about our substance abuse treatment programmes.