Am I Addicted? – Opiate Addiction Treatment Centers in Norton MA, Salem & Dover NH
Opioid (narcotic) addiction is biological, psychological, and social. Learn about signs of Opiate 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.
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.
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.
Possible signs of opioid addiction include:
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.
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:
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.
