Am I Addicted?

• Physical symptomsinclude the need for increasing amounts of the drug, withdrawal, cravings, and sleep disturbance.
• Psychological symptomsinclude a reliance on narcotics to cope with everyday problems. The inability to feel good or celebrate without using narcotics is another sign of addiction.
• Social symptomsinclude less frequent contact with important people in your life, and absence from or neglect of important life issues and events. In some cases, there may be criminal and legal implications.

Do you believe you or a family member are suffering from an opioid addiction?

Also known as a narcotic addiction, the substances can range from illegal drugs or the abuse of prescription pain medications. Physical symptoms often include needing increasing amounts of the drug, sleep issues, uncontrollable cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Psychologically, someone suffering from addiction will rely on the drug to cope with everyday problems and cannot “feel good” without it. Socially, those addicted to opioids will often withdraw from social events and have less contact with close friends and family members. Additionally, legal and criminal problems may arise. At Norton Health Care, our experts are ready to help you, or a family member combat their addiction.

How do people become so easily addicted to opioids?

The chemicals in these substances trick your body and brain to feel like it is necessary to continually take it to survive. As your body begins to tolerate an opioid, increased amounts are needed to achieve the same effect, leading to dependency and abuse. There are several ways addiction can take hold, and it can be very unforgiving.

If I take an opioid, how can I avoid becoming addicted?

Opioids are often prescribed for valid reasons, usually for pain management. When these pain medicines are prescribed, it’s key to speak with your doctor to understand the dangers of these drugs and how to take them safely. Exploring non-opioid alternatives may be beneficial. These alternatives may be safer and provide almost as much pain relief.

What signs of addiction should I look for?

Possible signs of opioid addiction include:

• Getting into trouble with the law, often resulting in criminal charges
• Avoiding time with family and friends
• Quickly changing moods
• Sleeping at irregular hours
• Changing of friends and socializing with different groups of people
• Financial hardship
• No longer interested in usual activities.
• Lack of regular hygiene such as bathing or brushing their teeth
• Often missing important events or appointments
• Cranky or nervous
• Random and increasingly absent from work or school
• Eating habits noticeably changed
• Overly energetic and talking fast to the point where they don’t make sense
• Noticeable sadness and fatigue.

What should I do if I believe I (or a friend) is addicted to opioids? Where can I find help?

If you or a loved one recognize there could be an addiction problem, contact Norton Health Care today to set up an appointment for a consultation. Our experienced providers and staff will work with you one on one to chart the best path for your recovery. When talking to a loved one or friend, assure them that their addiction can be managed successfully. You should also stress that addiction treatment can take several attempts until the “right” treatment is found for them. Although popular on TV and in movies, an “intervention” is not recommended as these often backfire and can escalate into violence. The best way to go about it is to convince a person to visit with a physician.

What are common withdrawal symptoms from opioids?

Not all patients will experience all withdrawal symptoms. There are a lot of factors that contribute which symptoms they suffer and the severity. They can include:

• Vomiting
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Feeling cold
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Abdominal pain
• Tremors
• Drug cravings

Withdrawal symptoms generally lasts three to five days, but in some cases, can be as long as ten days. Withdrawal symptoms are powerful and even dangerous. Doctors do not suggest a “cold turkey” approach as it can lead to stronger cravings and a dangerous relapse. The safest way to combat these symptoms is through supervision from a medically trained professional who will use support, counseling, and medicines to help a patient through this transition. At Norton Health Care, we offer a long term managed maintenance program that uses Suboxone to help taper a patient off from their opioid addiction.

Do you believe you or a loved one is suffering from an opioid addiction? Visit Norton Health Care today for an evaluation so we can determine the best path forward for you. Do you have questions about opioid addiction or would you like to make an appointment? Call our friendly staff today at (508) 285-8550.