Anxiety about withdrawals during opioid detox is common.
What is detox or detoxification? It’s the process your body goes through when you remove something from your system. Painkillers, opioids, and other drugs take a significant toll on your body, and there is an adjustment period where it has to relearn how to regulate itself.
Many people struggling with drug addiction—whether it’s painkillers, alcohol, heroin, or any other addictive substance—have likely already felt some early withdrawal symptoms. It’s not a pleasant feeling, and anxiety over these symptoms continuing or getting worse can drive a person deeper into addiction. You need to know that these feelings and symptoms won’t last forever, and you don’t have to go through this process alone.
The reasons for taking that critical first step towards sobriety are many. Painkiller addiction has increased sharply in recent decades due to greater availability and social acceptance regarding the use of drugs. As a result, drug overdose deaths have more than tripled since 1999, and in 2008, more people died due to opioid abuse than from heroin and cocaine combined.
Opioids compromise your immune system, which can lead to more infections. A commonly known side effect of painkillers is constipation, which can lead to stomach and intestinal issues. Your hormones are affected, too. You may have experienced a lower sex drive, hot flashes, weight gain, or depression. Hormonal imbalances can also lead to infertility and bone loss.
Painkillers can have a profound effect on your brain, too—particularly the part that governs self-control. Many people begin taking painkillers to become addicted, and most heroin users have a history of opioid abuse first.
You may have tried to quit using on your own before and failed. That’s okay. Most people who attempt to go through detox on their own find themselves in the same position. Withdrawal symptoms are a significant obstacle to overcome. Even with a proper support system in place, it can be a major challenge. Some of the more common opioid withdrawal symptoms are:
Depending on the length and severity of your addiction, withdrawal symptoms can vary in strength. This will also determine whether you should undergo medically-supervised detoxification versus sub-acute detoxification. You should seek the guidance of a medical doctor to choose the right method for you. If medical detox isn’t required, you might be able to use a state-licensed rehab center like Cycles of Change.
Cycles of Change is California’s premier opioid rehab treatment center. It’s our mission to help you regain control of your life. Our experienced team will develop a personalized treatment to meet your individual needs. We strive to lessen your pain and discomfort during this difficult process, so you can gain the knowledge, courage, and determination to pursue a happier, healthier, drug-free life. It doesn’t matter if you’ve tried to quit without success in the past. People recover from addiction every day, and we’re here to help you succeed. Contact us to start your recovery journey today.
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