Opioids are powerful drugs that can quickly lead to addiction because of how they impact the brain’s reward and pain centers. The process of getting sober is also complex because of the potential withdrawal symptoms you can suffer.
In our Northpoint Omaha outpatient treatment center, we provide programs and services to help you identify the signs and symptoms of opioid withdrawal. The trained professionals of staff in our opioid rehab program will get you started on the road to recovery. Learn how to enroll by calling 888.687.8014.
Why Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms Occur
When you take large amounts of opioids for a significant amount of time, it causes structural changes to the brain, leading to a variety of signs and symptoms if you stop taking the drug all at once.
Opioids attach themselves to opioid receptors in the brain, gastrointestinal tract, and spinal cord. Although your body makes natural opioids, it doesn’t do so in large quantities, so flooding your system with them leads to effects like slowed breathing and heightened pleasurable feelings that encourage you to repeat the use.
Your body stops producing its own natural opioids as a result of the flood of artificial ones in your system while also becoming desensitized to the drug’s effects, meaning you need to take increasing amounts of the opioid to feel the same level of pleasure.
Your brain receptors become dependent on the drug to function well, so when you stop taking it, your body experiences a shock that causes opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Symptoms and Signs of Opioid Withdrawal
The symptoms of opioid withdrawal can vary in intensity depending on how long you’ve been taking the drug, how much of it you take, and many other factors.
Some of the symptoms of opioid withdrawal include:
- Muscle aches
- Anxiety
- Runny nose
- Sweating
- Goosebumps
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure
- Abdominal cramping
- Rapid heart rate
Some of the signs of opioid withdrawal you may see in someone else include:
- Not being able to sit still
- Yawning
- Inability to sleep
If you or a loved one is experiencing opioid withdrawal signs, it’s essential that you reach out for help.
Outpatient Treatment for Opioid Addiction
Outpatient care is one of the best options when deciding to get treatment for an opioid addiction. Many people struggle to get the help they need because they can’t step away from their daily lives to get inpatient care. However, outpatient programs offer the chance to avoid this problem.
There are three main types of outpatient services. They are partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), and standard outpatient care. The one that’s right for you can depend on lots of factors, including how intensive you want the program to be.
A PHP is the highest level of outpatient care. It can be a good option for those who are just beginning their recovery. It involves attending many hours of private and group sessions each day of the week, helping you build up your coping skills and allowing you to meet others who are also going through similar challenges.
An IOP is a step down from a PHP. It requires fewer hours per day and fewer days per week. It still offers a high level of care but also begins to give you more freedom.
With a standard outpatient program, you have the chance to start trusting yourself more while getting fewer hours of structured care. It can be a good way to transition back into your daily life.
Enroll in Northpoint Omaha’s Opioid Rehab Program Today
If you have been struggling with opioid withdrawal signs and find yourself not being able to get sober on your own, turn to Northpoint Omaha. We offer a number of treatment programs that can help you find your sobriety and keep it, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and family therapy. Call us today at 888.687.8014 or use our online contact form.