One of the biggest deterrents to quitting heroin is worry over experiencing withdrawal symptoms. This is an understandable concern, as long-term heroin use can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms if you try to quit or cut back on your own. However, there are ways to minimize the discomfort through medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and other resources you can find at a reputable heroin addiction treatment center like Promises My 5 Palms.
Common Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
Abruptly discontinuing heroin can result in the following withdrawal symptoms:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sweating
- Aches and pains in the bones and muscles
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Intense cravings
Everyone’s experience is different, so your symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on several factors. Generally, the longer you have used heroin or the higher the dose you take, the more severe your symptoms can be.
Easing Heroin Withdrawal Through Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
One of the most effective ways to alleviate withdrawal discomfort is through specially selected medications that are part of MAT programs. These programs may include medications like:
- Methadone – This medication is a full opioid antagonist that binds to opioid receptors in the brain to alleviate heroin cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is usually available as an oral liquid.
- Buprenorphine – This partial opioid agonist has the advantage of minimizing withdrawal symptoms with a lower risk for misuse and overdose than methadone. It is available as sublingual tablets or films, transdermal patches, or injections.
- Naltrexone – This opioid antagonist binds to and blocks other opioids from attaching to receptors, which helps reduce cravings. It is available as a pill or injection.
The medications used in MAT programs can make a world of difference in your recovery. Many people find it much easier to abstain from returning to use when incorporating the above medications into their treatment plan.
Managing Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
Although you may not be able to eliminate all discomfort associated with heroin withdrawal, there are some actions you can take to help minimize the severity of your symptoms. In addition to the treatment you receive from an MAT program, you can help yourself feel more comfortable during the withdrawal process by:
Applying Heat to Achy Muscles
A warm bath or shower can help ease muscle aches as your body detoxes from heroin. You can also use a heating pad or warm compress on those areas. An over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen may be helpful, but you should consult with your provider before taking ibuprofen or any other OTC pain reliever in combination with your withdrawal medications.
Staying Hydrated
Diarrhea, sweating, and vomiting can all lead to dehydration. To avoid complications during withdrawal, focus on staying hydrated. Be sure to have plenty of water, sports drinks, and broth on hand to sip throughout the day. If possible, try to avoid caffeine, as it can further dehydrate you.
Getting Plenty of Rest
Sleep is crucial to help you get through heroin withdrawal, as it gives your body a chance to rest and heal. It can be challenging during this period since you may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. To support restful sleep during this time, try to make your room as dark and quiet as possible and keep the temperature cool and comfortable. You can also try listening to guided meditations specifically designed to encourage sleep.
Reach Out to 5 Palms to Overcome Heroin Abuse
Do not let the fear of withdrawal symptoms stop you from achieving the sober lifestyle you desire. Promises My 5 Palms can help you get through heroin withdrawal safely and more comfortably through medication-assisted treatment and therapies designed specifically for your recovery needs. To learn more or enroll in treatment, call us today at 1.844.675.1022. The online form is also a convenient way to get in touch.