The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has released multiple public health alerts on opioid addiction and overdose in the years since the medication was introduced to medical markets across the country. It’s not hard to develop an opioid use disorder. Addiction is the result of several factors, including personal history, medical history, and duration of use. Even with this information, however, opioids carry such a high risk of addiction that it can be tricky to tell who’s vulnerable to developing dependence.
There are many reasons someone might develop opioid dependence, and many who find themselves addicted begin using the drug with a doctor’s prescription. Luckily, recovery is possible, and treatment for opioid use is available. When suffering from an opioid use disorder, getting sober can be a monumental task of endurance and willpower. As a result, relapses are incredibly common for those trying to kick the habit. Receiving treatment for an opioid use disorder is a great way to increase the chances of getting sober and avoiding relapse, but finding the proper help can be a challenge in and of itself. There are many options for those searching for addiction detox services in Argyle, TX. Reach out to the team of professionals at Santé Center for Healing to learn more.
What Is Opioid Addiction?
Opioid use disorder describes someone who does not take the medication per their medical provider’s instructions. Most often, opioids are prescribed as painkillers to treat chronic pain or a recovering injury. Opioids cause the brain to release endorphins, one of the more well-known chemicals in the brain, which induces feelings of happiness and euphoria. When opioids are taken consistently over time, the body slows its natural production of the chemical, creating a cycle of dependency where cravings fuel drug use, decreasing endorphin production and increasing cravings. In addition, long-term use creates a tolerance to the medication, which often causes users to increase their dose. In recent years, doctors have become more aware of the addiction risk posed by opioids, making it more difficult for patients to raise their dose or renew their prescriptions. This can cause those who suffer from an opioid use disorder to try and obtain the medication illegally, which may be laced or contaminated with other substances.
What Are the Symptoms of an Opioid Use Disorder?
A wide range of symptoms can be attributed to an opioid use disorder. As a result of the ongoing opioid epidemic affecting the United States, there has been an abundance of new research on how to diagnose and treat opioid addiction. The National Institute of Health interprets opioid use disorder as someone who meets two or more of the following criteria:
- Withdrawal when the dose is decreased
- Increasing dose/tolerance
- Desire to cut down
- Strong desire to use
- Use of drugs in hazardous situations
- Excessive time dedicated to obtaining and using medication
- Use interferes with obligations
- Continued use despite consequences
- Continued use despite physical or psychological problems
- Desire to increase the dose
- Isolation or elimination of important activities due to drug use
Identifying the signs of an opioid use disorder can be tricky, as many of its symptoms may be attributed to other health issues. However, early diagnosis is key to stopping symptoms before they become unmanageable, making treatment for opioid use disorder far less difficult in the short and long term.
Finding Opioid Addiction Treatment near me at Santé Center for Healing
At the Santé Center for Healing, we have seen firsthand the effects that opioid addiction can have on a person’s life, family, and loved ones. We offer a wide variety of substance abuse services and use a multitude of evidence-based therapies proven to help patients take control of and overcome their addiction. For more information on treatment for opioid use disorder or to schedule an appointment today, contact us at 866.238.3154.
