Unfortunately, when someone decides to stop using opioids, it isn’t as simple as just quitting. Opioids are physically addictive, meaning that the body becomes acclimated to their presence. After quitting, users can experience many uncomfortable symptoms, collectively referred to as ‘withdrawal.’ The good news is that treatments and methods can help opioid users navigate the withdrawal process and break their addiction for good. Frequently, those who wish to quit using opioids choose to participate in an opioid withdrawal management program. Quitting can be hard, and it is often wise to reach out for professional help to be successful.
What Is Opioid Withdrawal Like?
The withdrawal experience is different for everyone because everyone’s circumstances are different. The course of withdrawal can be affected by a person’s age, general health, length of time used, and how much they have been using. Sometimes, people can also experience what is call precipitated withdrawal. However, there are some commonly-experienced symptoms that most people will experience to varying degrees. Some of these are:
- Sweating
- Yawning
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Sleep disturbances
- Muscle aches and cramps
- Vomiting/diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Goosebumps
While not everyone will experience all these symptoms, most people enduring withdrawal likely will. The intensity of these symptoms will also vary, but most people will experience extreme discomfort. The most effective way to address these withdrawal symptoms is through detox and treatment.
How Long Does Opioid Withdrawal Last?
The first withdrawal symptoms usually appear within 24 hours of discontinuing the opioid. Symptoms increase in severity for days and usually resolve within 7-10 days. After the acute phase of withdrawal, individuals may experience a residual feeling of opioid withdrawals intermittently for months. Receiving treatment for opioid withdrawals is important because it can help combat those residual symptoms and allow clients to achieve lasting recovery.
What Is an Opioid Withdrawal Management Program Like?
Different treatment programs are available for people who want to quit using opioids. Still, generally speaking, clients will go through a period of medically-supervised detox at an opioid addiction treatment center. During this time, they will be given medicines and treatments to help them tolerate the withdrawal process as comfortably as possible and treatments to help them begin to heal from addiction.
Some clients choose to participate in a longer-term inpatient treatment program, while others may opt for an intensive outpatient program. Either way, clients must receive the therapy and support they need for recovery. Studies have shown that those who participate in a full addiction treatment program are far more likely to recover over time, return to work and school, and report better outcomes in their relationships.
Do I Need Help With Opioid Addiction?
Here are some questions you can ask yourself to determine if you could benefit from treatment for opioid addiction:
- Have you gotten in trouble at work, school, or with the law because of your opioid use?
- Do you take steps to hide your opioid use from loved ones?
- Are you having money trouble because of opioids?
- Does the idea of experiencing opioid withdrawal make you afraid to stop?
- Has someone you care about confronted you about your opioid use?
Liberty Health Services Can Help With the Opioid Withdrawal Process
Located in Derry, New Hampshire, we at Liberty Health Services are committed to helping our clients and their families heal from addiction. We provide detox and treatments based on current best practices and center on the family. Our luxurious facilities allow our clients to focus on recovery while our professional staff members handle their daily needs.
If you or someone you care about has been struggling with opioid addiction, the best time to reach out for help is now. Contact our caring and compassionate staff at 855.959.4521 and let us tell you how we can help.
