What Are the Physical Effects of Heroin?

The effects of heroin vary from person to person based on a number of important factors. The physical effects of heroin become more pronounced when a person continues to abuse heroin over time. Those with a mild heroin addiction may not experience the same physical effects and symptoms as someone with a severe addiction or who has been addicted to heroin or other opiates for a long time. To learn more about how the physical effects of heroin can vary among heroin users, reach out to Arkview Recovery today at 717.744.0756 to speak with a trained representative who can tell you more about our heroin addiction treatment program.

The Physical Effects of Heroin

There are many physical effects that heroin can produce. Those who use and abuse heroin tend to report different experiences based on the severity of their addiction and how long they have abused heroin and other opiates. The effects of heroin, like most substances, can be considerably altered when mixed with other substances.

Common physical effects of heroin include:

• Euphoric rush
• Trance-like state
• Sense of heavy limbs
• Severe itching
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Runny nose
• Slow respiration
• Reduced heart rate
• Extreme drowsiness
• Confusion

Today’s Heroin Is Usually Not Heroin

The heroin people buy today is not usually heroin. It’s usually fentanyl. Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opiate that has been the culprit behind increased opiate addictions, increases in opiate overdoses, and increases in overdose fatalities.

Fentanyl (sometimes referred to as “fent” or other street names) is produced in a lab and comes in many forms making it all too easy for dealers to “cut” or mix fentanyl into other substances. Fentanyl has been showing up in unusual places, making drug use and even occasional drug experimentation extremely dangerous.

The Importance of Early Intervention

It is commonly said that early intervention is best for those who abuse opioids like heroin over a long period of time. This is because they are more likely to have irreversible side effects, including effects on their physical health and well-being, that can make everyday life a challenge.

Long-term abuse of heroin and other opiates can lead to negative consequences, including:

• Increased depression
• Chronic constipation
• Chronic paranoia
• Pulmonary infections
• Arthritis
• Skin abscesses or infections
• Collapsed veins
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Heart infections and heart damage
• Increased risk of illness due to a weakened immune system

Common Signs of Heroin Abuse

A person who is abusing heroin is likely to change their activities and behaviors. Being aware of changes in someone you care about can make a huge difference. Signs of heroin abuse can include:

• Increased concerns about privacy
• Lack of responsibility
• Lack of interest in activities
• Social isolation
• Relationship problems
• Change in friendships
• Legal issues
• New concerns about money
• Work problems

Reach Out to Arkview About Recovery Options

The medical professionals at Arkview Recovery are familiar with the challenges associated with heroin abuse, the stages of heroin addiction, and the path to recovery. We work with clients to develop personalized treatment plans based on individual needs. In our heroin addiction treatment program, medical doctors and mental health practitioners take pride in helping clients find their path to lasting recovery. Arkview’s programs include:

• Residential Treatment
• Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
• Relapse prevention
• Aftercare

At Arkview, we want you to know that it’s never too late to begin recovery. Our experts want to help you break the cycle of addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. Reach out to us today at 717.744.0756 to speak with a trained representative who can tell you more about our personalized treatment plans for heroin recovery.