Opiate Withdrawal Symptoms

Opiate addiction is a very difficult disorder to treat. The long term success rate of treatment is very low and studies show that individuals that suffer from opiate addiction will continue to have relapses and will enter into detox treatment 10-20 times in their lifetime. The low success rate is due to the greatest obstacle in detoxification treatment which is the opiate withdrawal symptoms.

The withdrawal process from opiate addiction is a very painful and long process. Some of the symptoms can cause permanent damage to the major organs of the body such as the heart and lungs which is why it is always advised to seek professional medical help in treating the opiate addiction. Untreated and unmonitored withdrawal of health compromised patients can lead to their deaths. Opiate withdrawal symptoms require safe and responsible medical care.

Opiate Withdrawal Symptoms:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Cravings for opiates

• Cold sweats

• Insomnia

• Diarrhea

• Nausea

• Involuntary movements

• Aching limbs

• Tearing and runny nose

For the first 3-5 days, the opiate withdrawal symptoms will resemble like the flu. The withdrawal is stronger when opiates are suddenly stopped. It must be understood that detoxification of any addiction is a process and therefore needs time. Your body will go through a lot of changes because it will suffer withdrawal symptoms and the craving for opiate will always be there as some opiate addicts claim even after detoxification.

Depression is the number one withdrawal symptoms during opiate detoxification and it can last for weeks or even months depending on the individual. Extra care is needed for the first month when dealing with this symptom. To help the patient during the first months of opiate detoxification, they need to be encouraged to stay as healthy as possible. Plenty of fresh air, exercise and a healthy diet will help a lot during this time. They need to forget the temptation of the opiate addiction and also keep their minds off depression. Some medication in the form of supplements like 5HTP can increase the serotonin levels in their brains which help elevate their good mood.

A lifestyle change is almost always needed to stay clean and kick the opiate addiction all together. The withdrawal symptoms may last for months and if you live the same lifestyle as before, the cravings and temptations you will get may be hard to say no to. Getting through opiate withdrawal symptoms may appear a very tough work and it is but with a lot of determination and help from loved ones, it can be done.