It’s impossible to predict who’s most at risk of developing an opioid addiction. Anyone who takes opioids—even the legal, prescription medication kind that includes oxycodone (OxyContin) and hydrocodone (Vicodin)—can form an eventual chemical dependence, which can lead to developing a substance use disorder (SUD). This dependence may be why opioids are responsible for most fatal overdoses in the U.S. today.
Addiction involves irresistible cravings for a specific substance, out-of-control and compulsive use of the substance, and continued substance use despite repeated harmful consequences. Opioids heighten the tendency toward these behaviors and, therefore, have high addiction potential. Opioids trigger the release of endorphins, the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters. Endorphins muffle the perception of pain and boost feelings of pleasure. When an opioid dose wears off, people want those good feelings back as soon as possible. This cycle eventually leads to the development of a SUD. Are you looking for an opioid addiction treatment program in Los Angeles, California? Contact Silicon Beach Treatment Center today. You can call [Direct] or contact our team online.
What Is the Difference Between Opiates and Opioids?
The terms “opiates” and “opioids” are often used interchangeably, but they don’t mean the same thing. Both refer to narcotic drugs, which means they induce numbness or sleepiness. However, opiates are naturally occurring compounds from poppy plants—such as codeine or morphine. Opioids, on the other hand, are either partial or fully synthetic compounds, such as fentanyl or oxycodone (Oxycontin).
However, many people use the term “opioids” to refer to all opiates and opioids.
What Are the Signs of Opioid Addiction?
Behavioral or Psychosocial Symptoms
Some of the most observable opioid addiction signs are behavioral, including the following:
- Experiencing a decline in school or work performance
- Isolating socially
- Having angry or emotional outbursts
- Lying about activities and whereabouts
- Meeting with multiple doctors to obtain multiple opioid prescriptions
- Stealing money or medications from others
Some psychosocial symptoms such as anxiety, depression, irritability, and wildly fluctuating mood swings may also be easily observable.
Cognitive Symptoms
People struggling with opioid addiction may also experience cognitive symptoms, including the following:
- Experiencing learning difficulties
- Feeling detached from surroundings
- Impaired concentration
- Impaired decision-making, problem-solving, and judgment
- Paranoia
Physical Symptoms
Finally, physical symptoms can also be some of the most apparent opioid addiction signs — such as the following:
- Alternating between constipation and diarrhea
- Change in weight
- Poor hygiene
- Poor motor coordination
- Scabs, sores, or puncture wounds suggestive of intravenous (IV) opioid use
- Slowed reflexes
When Should You Consider an Opioid Addiction Treatment Program?
Now that you know the signs of opioid addiction, you’re better equipped to figure out whether or not you or someone you care about needs admittance into a rehab program.
In general, if you observe signs of opioid addiction, the next best step is to get professional help. Not only is a fatal overdose more and more likely as this type of addiction progresses, but opioid detox and withdrawal can be difficult to undergo without medical supervision. Overall, overcoming opioid addiction is rarely successful when done without professional help.
Suppose someone you care about is reluctant to talk about their struggle with opioid addiction or doesn’t want to admit that there’s a problem. In that case, you may talk to a medical or mental health professional you trust about setting up an intervention. You shouldn’t ignore a problem with addiction as it’s also very important to get professional help as soon as possible.
Ready to Learn More About Silicon Beach Tx’s Opioid Addiction Treatment Program?
If you’re searching for an opioid addiction treatment program in Los Angeles, California, contact Silicon Beach Treatment Center today. You can call [Direct] or talk to our team online.
