Is your loved one or a friend you know suffering from addiction? Have you noticed if the person has become very withdrawn from the world? Are these loved ones starting to surround themselves in a bubble — keeping others at bay?
If so, there is a good chance that your loved one is suffering from addiction to the deadly drug heroin. And, if you want to help them, you need to recognize the heroin addiction symptoms.
Keep reading to find out the most common symptoms of heroin addiction.
Table of Contents
1. Physical Signs of Use
Physical symptoms of heroin addiction are typically some of the most significant signs of use that a person can recognize. Some of the most common signs of heroin use include:
- extreme fatigue
- needle marks
- slowed breathing rate
- coughing
- coughing up mucus
Extreme fatigue can be identified by prolonged periods of sleep or appearing to be falling asleep instantly after consuming the drug. Needle marks may appear at the injection site, which is usually found in the arms but can be found in other areas as well.
A slowed breathing rate may be most noticeable when sleeping or in a relaxed state. Coughing and coughing up of mucus is caused by the drug irritating the throat and respiratory system.
All of these signs happen as a result of the body being exposed to the chemicals in heroin over some time. These signs should not be overlooked and should be addressed as soon as possible.
2. Behavioral Changes
Easily spotted signals of behavioral changes that can be linked to heroin use include starting to hang around with different friends, missing or being late to school or work, often appearing disheveled or high on the drug, or even becoming secretive.
People suffering from heroin abuse may also become more hostile, withdrawn, depressed, or display sudden changes in attitude or mood. In addition, they may become less interested in participating in hobbies and activities they previously enjoyed, or begin stealing to fund their drug habit.
Heroin causes depression because when it is used, the drug has a depressant effect on the central nervous system. This affects several brain functions. In addition, heroin increases levels of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine which results in an altered mood.
Furthermore, heroin disrupts the production of dopamine which is responsible for producing feelings of pleasure and reward. Without those feelings, users can quickly become dependent on the drug as their only source of pleasure. As the user continues to use heroin, it can have a detrimental effect on the user’s mental health leading to depression and other problems.
3. Health Issues
Heroin addiction is a serious problem that can cause a variety of consequences, including health issues. Common health issues associated with heroin abuse can range from physical damage such as:
- damage to internal organs
- weakened immune system
- collapsed veins from injection
The damage to internal organs caused by heroin abuse is significant and can have long-term health consequences. Having a weakened immune system will cause the body to produce and retain an unhealthy amount of metabolites. This of which will lead to medical complications.
As veins collapse from the injection of heroin, the person using the drug is also at risk for numerous physical and mental health issues. Chronic use can lead to further skin tissue damage leading to a higher risk of contracting or spreading diseases.
There are also various other risk factors associated with heroin abuse, such as HIV/AIDS, overdose, organ damage, and increased risk of developing a mental illness. If these symptoms and risk factors are present, it is important to seek these specialized treatment programs to get help as soon as possible and prevent long-term health problems.
4. Financial and Legal Problems
Financial and legal problems are common symptoms of heroin substance abuse that should not be overlooked. People often turn to selling drugs, stealing, and prostitution to pay for their addiction. In addition, legal problems caused by the possession and distribution of heroin can cost an addicted person thousands of dollars in fines, legal fees, and jail time.
This further fuels the cycle of addiction, as the person may turn to crime again to pay their debts, leading to more legal issues. Financial trouble can also be caused by the cost of purchasing heroin.
Addicted people will spend every penny they can to get it. This includes eating and gas money, rent money, and other basics of life that the individual may be unable to afford, leading to more financial struggles. All of these problems can be avoided by getting help from a recovery program.
5. Visible Drug Paraphernalia
Visible drug paraphernalia includes objects and tools used for the storage and administration of heroin for addiction. Examples of these are:
- pipes
- tin foil
- razor blades
- spoons/bowls/plates
- balloons
- straws
- medical supplies
These items are common in heroin addiction and can signal to family and friends, as well as healthcare providers that a person is using heroin and needs professional help for wellness. A person who is not addicted to heroin or only intends to have a one-time experience will not attempt to use all their money for this paraphernalia.
As some paraphernalia can be costly, a user may opt to save their money for the drug itself. Therefore, someone in possession of paraphernalia is likely to be using heroin repeatedly.
Furthermore, a person with a heroin addiction could have a higher tolerance and require more paraphernalia, including needles, to obtain the desired effects. As such, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heroin addiction to help those in need of support.
Be Aware of the Heroin Addiction Symptoms
Heroin addiction is a serious illness that can develop without warning. By recognizing the heroin addiction symptoms, you can help identify if a loved one is struggling with addiction.
If you think someone may be struggling, please reach out for help. Don’t wait any longer – they need professional assistance and support to overcome addiction.
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