There is a growing concern in the United States about the use of opioids and the addictive habits these create in a significant percentage of the population. In order to better understand this, allow our opioid treatment center to delve deeper into how this addiction works.
What Are Opioids?
First of all, it will be important to understand what opioids even are. These are substances that, upon reaching the body’s opioid receptors, have similar effects to those of morphine. These are used medically in order to provide pain relief as well as in anesthesia. Additionally, they are also used for diarrhea suppression, treating cough, and for restless leg syndrome. Specific opioids derived from opium can often be used recreationally because of their euphoric effects. Opioid addiction, however, isn’t exclusive to these recreational substances. A lot of opioid use can originate in medically prescribed opioids that were abused or taken beyond recommended time frames and doses. This is particularly common in instances of physical and even emotional pain, which can make treating the addiction particularly difficult.
Consequences of Opioid Use
Opioid use can quickly have grave consequences on the body. In cases of abusive use, there is going to be significant impairment of the body’s senses and a heightened feeling of distress. This can lead to an increased tolerance to opioids, and thus a strong desire to keep using, difficulty fulfilling obligations, and withdrawal symptoms when reducing use. On top of the sedative effects, the person might also experience itching, nausea, respiratory difficulties, and constipation. It is worth noting that the highly addictive nature of opioids can result in fatal overdoses, which can be fatal. An estimated 15 million people in the world struggle with an opioid addiction, around 4 million out of which reside in the United States. Sixty-nine thousand people around the world die of an opioid overdose each year, which is why it’s so important to seek out treatment in a timely manner.
Treating Opioid Addiction
Treating an opioid addiction isn’t exactly simple, often requiring very specific approaches on a case by case basis. The first step to consider, though, will almost always be detoxification, a process by which the patient is going to be medically stabilized following reduced use of the substance. Opioids create an unbalance in the body, which is what leads to withdrawal when use is cut. In order for the body to get through the withdrawal process without harming itself, it will be important for the patient to go through detoxification. This will address the physiological need for the substance and make it easier for the patient to go through rehabilitation.
Opioid Treatment Center
At the time of choosing an opioid treatment center, it might be hard to know what exactly will end up being best for you. In fact, going to rehab will always involve some sort of leap of faith. The best you can hope for is a place where you will be both challenged and understood: a rehab facility that gives you your best chance at recovery. That is what we at Y&Y Recovery in Los Angeles want to provide to our patients. For more information about our program, you can give us a call at 818-839-4994 or reach out to us via the contact form on our website.