When it comes to opioid addiction, there is a lot of misinformation out there. People seem to think that detoxing from opioids is a walk in the park – but this could not be further from the truth. In reality, opioid withdrawal can be incredibly difficult, both mentally and physically. Depending on how long someone has been addicted to opioids, they may experience different symptoms during detox. In this article, we will discuss the various stages of opioid withdrawal and what you can expect during each one.
Stage 1: Early Withdrawal
The first stage of opioid withdrawal typically lasts between 24 and 48 hours. During this time, the addict may experience flu-like symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweats. They may also experience anxiety, irritability, and insomnia. In some cases, people may also experience mild hallucinations during this stage.
While these symptoms may seem manageable, they can actually be quite debilitating – especially when they are all occurring at the same time. It is important to remember that detoxing is not something that should be attempted without professional help. Receiving treatment for opioid withdrawal in Port St. Lucie will help to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Stage 2: Acute Withdrawal
The second stage of opioid withdrawal typically lasts between three and five days. The addict may experience more severe flu-like symptoms during this time, such as fever, chills, and muscle aches. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia are also possible. People may also experience hallucinations during this stage in some cases. It will also help if you know whether opioids affect heart rate or blood pressure so that you can better manage your condition.
Stage 3: Post-Acute Withdrawal
The third and final stage of opioid withdrawal typically lasts between two and twelve weeks. During this time, the addict may experience symptoms such as anxiety, depression, irritability, and insomnia. They may also have difficulty concentrating and making decisions. In some cases, people may also experience cravings for opioids during this stage. Thus, it is important to have a solid support system in place.
To Conclude
While detoxing from opioids can be a difficult process, it is important to remember that there is light at the end of the tunnel. With professional help, you can make it through detox and start on the road to recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, please reach out for help today.