Opioid Addiction Research Paper

Opiates are a class of drugs like heroin, oxycodone, codeine, fentanyl and morphine. For many clients, an opioid addiction begins with prescription opiates. Over time, family and friends may notice opioid addiction signs. As the addiction worsens, the individual may turn to illicit drugs to achieve the same high.

What Are the Opioid Addiction Signs?

In the United States, opioid addiction is a major problem. In 2010, there were an estimated 210 million prescriptions for legal opiates. Individuals who use opiates longer are more likely to develop an addiction. The opioid addiction signs include mental, emotional and physical symptoms.

Someone has an addiction when they continue to use a drug after negative repercussions. Some of the physical

opioid addiction signs include symptoms such as:

- Sedation or drowsiness
- Constipation
- Confusion
- Elation or euphoria
- Loss of consciousness or nodding off
- Slowed breathing
- Constricted pupils

Family and friends may also notice other opioid addiction signs.

The individual may start doctor shopping to get multiple prescriptions. Their moods may dramatically change. They may become socially isolated as the addiction becomes more important.

Over time, an opioid addiction may cause problems at work and financial issues. If the individual goes through opioid-withdrawal, they may develop flu-like symptoms like nausea or vomiting. Withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, sweating, headaches, diarrhea or fatigue.

Family members may notice behavioral changes in their loved one. The individual may no longer be interested in their favorite hobbies. Their appetite and sleeping habits may change. Even if the individual tries to reduce their intake, they use more than they intended to. Suddenly, most of their time seems to revolve around finding, buying and recovering from the drug.

The Long-Term Effects of Opioid Abuse

In the long run, there will be more opioid addiction signs. Opiate abuse starts to affect the individual's physical health. The individual may develop a weaker immune system or gastric problems like a bowel perforation. Respiratory depression, organ damage, depression and chest pain may

occur.

Some of the effects lead to additional problems. Respiratory depression can cause brain damage and hypoxia. If opioids are used with other drugs, it can increase the chances of liver damage.

Is There Treatment for Opioid Abuse?

It is possible to treat an opiate addiction. In general, most treatment programs will start with detox. This process helps to remove the remaining chemicals from the body. It helps to heal the physical addiction so that the client can focus on their recovery. At the end of the detox process, clients begin the rehab program.

Initially, individuals can also choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab. With inpatient treatment, the client remains at the site. They get around-the-clock supervision and 24/7 support. Clients who need flexibility for work or family responsibilities often choose outpatient treatment. With outpatient rehab, the client spends several hours at the treatment center each day. At night, they return home to sleep with their families.

Each treatment program is different. At the best programs, clients receive individualized treatment. This type of program customizes therapy and treatment options to the client's unique needs. Some programs also provide dual diagnosis treatment. This program works to treat underlying disorders and the addiction at the same time. By treating the addiction and other disorders, the client has a better chance of maintaining their

sobriety.

At the rehab center, individuals can find treatment options such as:

- Inpatient and outpatient programs
- Detox
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Yoga, art and music therapy
- Anger management and mindfulness meditation
- EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy

If you or a loved one is suffering from an addiction, you are not alone. You do not have to let an addiction control your life. With the right treatment program, you can start your journey toward sobriety. To find out how Beaches Recovery can help you recover, call us at 866-605-0532 today.