Common Signs of Heroin Use

It is no secret that our nation is facing an extremely alarming opioid epidemic. It is televised nationally and accounts for 150 people falling victim to opioid-related overdose per day, or 70% of all the deaths recorded in 2019. The CDC has taken a call to arms by collaborating with public health officials by providing resources to improve opioid treatment. The CDC also helps support states through funding, education, and resources that help prevent opioid-use disorder, ensuring patients have access to safer treatment.

Opioids like heroin or fentanyl are highly addictive and have the potential to cause overdose and death. At Greater Boston Addiction Clinics (GBAC), we offer a heroin rehab and fentanyl addiction treatment program among our other drug rehab options to focus on your specific abuse problem rather than generalized addiction. It is our duty to combat this epidemic with exceptional care, which is the heartbeat of our core values. Reach out now to GBAC at 877.920.6583 if you or someone you know needs help overcoming an addiction to opioids like fentanyl, heroin, oxycodone, or hydrocodone.

What Are the Signs of Heroin Use?

The signs will vary among heroin users based upon the frequency and amounts used of the drug. Other variations are based upon the level of dependency users are experiencing in their use. Some common signs of heroin use are listed below:

• Constricted pupils
• Extreme itching
• “Nodding off” or losing consciousness in waking hours
• Visible injection sites known as “track marks” on arms or legs
• Apathy and lack of motivation
• Slurred speech
• Possession of drug paraphernalia such as syringes or burned spoons 
• Failure to fulfill responsibilities 
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Extreme physical withdrawal symptoms
• Frequent sleeping
• Anxiety

The seriousness of these signs and symptoms will increase the longer the drug is used. Continued use of heroin or heroin abuse has many life-threatening effects. Experts say that medically-assisted treatment and behavioral treatment plans are the best ways to recover from heroin abuse. At GBAC, we are proud to offer both programs that are said to be the gold standard in recovery from opioids. We offer a plethora of treatment options to ensure that a personalized approach to your recovery is achieved. Our combination of addiction treatment programs was created by people who really understand addiction. 

Signs of Heroin Use & Abuse

Long-term use of heroin is known as heroin abuse. The signs of abuse are increased from those you would see in heroin use. Heroin abuse has the potential to lead to death if not treated properly. The signs of heroin abuse are:

• Clouded mental judgment
• Infections around the injection site
• Liver disease
• Kidney Disease
• Respiratory depression
• Blood clots
• Seizures
• Increased risk of HIV
• Chronic pneumonia
• Overdose
• Death

Withdrawal symptoms could result in serious medical complications and can occur within a few hours after sustained use of heroin. Users often fear the symptoms of withdrawal, which drives them to keep using. At GBAC, we offer a partial hospital program (PHP) to offer medical attention to those who require it when taking the first step in treatment. 

Sober Living in the Boston Area

Our exceptional Needham, MA, drug treatment provides medical support, recovery and treatment planning, and individual counseling sessions with therapists. Our mindfulness approach increases the chances of recovery while decreasing the risk of relapse. Our mission is to provide our patients exceptional care and the tools to be successful in lifelong recovery. With an opioid crisis in our nation, we believe spreading awareness and sharing education is pivotal in helping people get effective treatment. To learn about our services and the exceptional care we provide, call one of our qualified GBAC staff at 877.920.6583.