Heroin addiction has been a major issue in the United Kingdom for the past years, and it continues to impact the lives of several people. Hence, heroin addiction treatments have been widely available, allowing people to have easy access to both inpatient and outpatient programs, medical-assisted treatment, therapy, support groups, and aftercare services. 

Heroin is seen as one of the most harmful and damaging drugs. Heroin can cause damage to many aspects of life, including general health, relationships, job performance, and social interactions. 
 

What Is Heroin?

Heroin is a highly addictive and fast-acting opiate, which comes from opium – a natural substance taken from the seedpod of the opium poppy. Heroin is also known for its street names, such as Big H, Black Tar, Chiva, Hell Dust, Horse, Negra, Smack, and Thunder.

It usually comes in the form of a white or brown powder or as a sticky black substance called “black tar heroin.” While purer heroin is becoming more available, most of the heroin sold on the streets is mixed with other drugs or substances like sugar, starch, powdered milk, or quinine.

mood-swings-treatment

How Is Heroin Used?

Heroin is a powerful, illicit opioid drug that can be used in various ways depending on the user’s preference and tolerance level. Standard methods of ingestion include injection, snorting, or smoking.

Injecting heroin directly into the bloodstream delivers an intense and immediate high, allowing the substance to bypass the digestive system entirely. On the other hand, some users opt for snorting or smoking heroin from tin foil as they perceive these methods to be less harmful than injecting. Whether it is injecting or smoking heroin, both methods still carry significant health risks; when heroin is smoked or snorted, it rapidly enters the brain through nasal membranes or lung tissues, leading to a similarly fast-acting effect.

Effects Of Heroin On The Body

The effects of heroin on an individual can be both immediate and long-lasting, resulting in various physical and mental health consequences. Upon administration, the user typically experiences a rush of euphoria accompanied by sensations like warm skin flushing and a dry mouth.

However, these pleasurable sensations are not without their serious health risks. Long-term effects of heroin use can lead to severe complications such as respiratory problems, damaged veins due to intravenous drug use, or infections at the injection site. Blood-born viruses like HIV or Hepatitis C are also huge health risks of needle use. This highly addictive substance can quickly lead to drug dependence in a short period. 

Furthermore, prolonged exposure has also been associated with decreased liver function, kidney failure, lung issues like pneumonia, and cognitive impairments.

What Is Heroin Addiction

Heroin addiction is a complex and serious problem impacting millions globally, frequently resulting in severe repercussions for both the affected individuals and their families. This condition is marked by an uncontrollable desire to obtain and consume the drug, regardless of the detrimental effects it may cause. 

Signs And Symptoms Of Heroin Addiction

Recognising the signs and symptoms of heroin addiction is essential to break the cycle of addiction and prevent further damage to your physical and mental health. 

If you see any of these symptoms, getting professional help immediately is important. Heroin addiction gets worse over time and can lead to overdose, which can often be deadly.

  • Engaging in heroin use despite its negative impact on major areas of life
  • Deceiving friends and family about heroin consumption.
  • Repeated unsuccessful attempts to stop using heroin.
  • Facing severe withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.
  • Increasing tolerance to heroin over time.
  • Engaging in risky behaviours 
  • Experiencing physical and behavioural changes such as weight loss, watery eyes, nausea, slowed respiratory rate, fatigue, social isolation, lack of interest, and diminished motivation. 
  • Developing mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety.

Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms

People who have heroin addiction become physically dependent on it and often experience fear of stopping because of the withdrawal symptoms they might face. These symptoms can start just a few hours after the last use.

Those who have been using heroin for a long time are at risk of serious health issues during withdrawal and should get help from medical professionals. Some of the most common heroin withdrawal symptoms include extreme sweating, nausea, muscle pain, insomnia, fever, and intense craving for heroin. 

Heroin Addiction Treatment Options

This highly addictive opioid often entraps individuals in a vicious cycle of addiction. Breaking free from this condition necessitates a comprehensive and strategic approach. At PROMIS, our heroin addiction treatment encompasses every facet of recovery, from detox to aftercare.

Helping A Loved One Going Through Heroin Addiction

Watching a loved one grapple with heroin addiction can be heartbreaking. However, your support can be instrumental in guiding them towards recovery. Here’s how you can effectively assist them in seeking professional treatment:

Begin Your Treatment For Heroin Addiction Today 

Don’t let the shadows of addiction darken another day. Reach out to us and embark on a transformative journey to treat heroin addiction, rediscover a life of purpose, and step into a future brimming with hope and possibility. Your pathway to recovery is just a call away.