What Does Heroin Withdrawal Feel Like? A Deeper Look

If you or a loved one are using heroin, it is important to be aware of the risks and symptoms associated with heroin withdrawal, as well as what to do if experiencing them. Heroin is a central nervous system depressant, classifying it as a downer.

As an opioid, heroin binds to opioid receptors in the brain that then trigger the release of dopamine. This release of dopamine produces a euphoric and calming effect on the mind and body.

Many heroin users continue to take the drug for this intense sense of euphoria and relief from pain, but with regular use, the brain becomes unable to produce dopamine on its own. Heroin users then start to depend on heroin to provide dopamine and to avoid dopamine depletion.

Now physically dependent on the drug, the cycle of addiction has begun and painful heroin withdrawal symptoms can arise.

How Long Does Heroin Withdrawal Take?

The length of time an individual will go through heroin withdrawal depends on how long they have been on the drug, and on the amount they were regularly taking.

Individuals who have only been using it for a short amount of time, in smaller quantities, will likely experience less severe heroin withdrawal symptoms, and for a shorter amount of time. Those who have been heavy, habitual users generally experience a more extended heroin withdrawal stage with more severe symptoms.

Typically, the first week produces the most challenging heroin withdrawal symptoms, as the physical craving will be at its most intense. After the second week, most of the physical symptoms will have subsided, but some psychological withdrawal symptoms may remain, improving over time.

Heroin withdrawal can be a painful experience without the appropriate supervision

Symptoms of Heroin Withdrawal

When an individual abruptly stops using heroin after using, they will likely experience heroin withdrawal symptoms. The exact time frame between last use and the onset of withdrawal symptoms will vary from person to person, but generally, they set in anywhere from several hours to several days after the last use.

Symptoms of heroin withdrawal include:

Intense craving for heroin
Excessive sweating
Chills
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Severe muscle aches and pains
Fever
Insomnia
Cold sweats
Diarrhea
Anxiety
Irritability

Heroin Detox and Addiction Treatment

According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control, heroin use by young adults has more than doubled in the past decade. The United States declared an opioid epidemic in 2017, due to the alarming and exponential increase in opioid-related overdoses and deaths around the nation.

Much of the devastation of the opioid epidemic has been attributed to the rise of addiction to opioid painkillers, such as OxyContin, but heroin is also a key player.

If you or a loved one are experiencing heroin withdrawal symptoms, it means that your body has become addicted and physically dependent on the drug. The best course of action when withdrawing from heroin is to seek professional detox services.

Supervised medical detox facilities specialize in assisting individuals through the drug withdrawal process in a safe and supportive environment. Withdrawing from heroin can be mentally and physically difficult, and even life-threatening for certain individuals.

Asheville Detox Center is here to help when it comes to heroin withdrawal

When detoxing alone, it can be very tempting to use heroin again to avoid the pain of withdrawal. In supervised medical detox, a person will be supported in a secure, heroin-free environment.
After the process of detoxing from heroin and overcoming heroin withdrawal, it is imperative that an individual seek comprehensive treatment for their addiction.

Detox alone is not a cure for addiction; it is the first step in addressing the physical dependence on the substance. To achieve lasting recovery, it is essential to address the underlying psychological, emotional, and behavioral factors that contribute to addiction.

Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options available for individuals recovering from heroin addiction, including 12-step fellowships like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and structured addiction treatment programs offered by specialized recovery centers.

12-step fellowships, such as Narcotics Anonymous, provide a supportive community of individuals who share similar experiences and challenges. These programs are built on the principles of mutual support, accountability, and spiritual growth, offering a structured framework for maintaining sobriety.

Meetings are widely accessible and provide a safe space for individuals to share their struggles, celebrate milestones, and gain inspiration from others who have walked the same path. While 12-step programs are a valuable resource, they are often most effective when combined with professional treatment.

Addiction treatment centers, on the other hand, offer a more immersive and comprehensive approach to recovery. These programs are designed to address the complexities of heroin addiction through a combination of evidence-based therapies, holistic healing modalities, and peer support.

In a supervised, drug-free environment, individuals can focus entirely on their recovery without the distractions or triggers of the outside world. Treatment plans are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual and typically include individual therapy, group therapy, and family counseling.

These sessions help individuals uncover the root causes of their addiction, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and rebuild relationships that may have been damaged by substance use.

In addition to traditional therapies, many addiction treatment centers incorporate holistic approaches such as mindfulness practices, yoga, art therapy, and fitness programs to promote overall well-being.

These modalities help individuals heal not just mentally and emotionally, but physically and spiritually as well. Peer support is also a cornerstone of these programs, as individuals benefit from the shared experiences and encouragement of others who are on a similar journey.

For those who require flexibility, many treatment centers offer part-time outpatient programs or intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), which allow individuals to receive treatment while maintaining their daily responsibilities.

Aftercare programs are beneficial for individuals experience heroin withdrawal

Aftercare programs are also a critical component of long-term recovery, providing ongoing support through counseling, support groups, and relapse prevention strategies.

Addiction is a life-and-death matter and must be tended to as such. Seeking professional treatment after detox is not just a recommendation—it is a vital step toward reclaiming your life and building a future free from the grip of heroin addiction.

At Asheville Detox Center, we are committed to helping you transition seamlessly into the next stage of your recovery journey, ensuring you have the tools, support, and resources needed to achieve lasting sobriety. If you or a loved one is ready to take the next step, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Oasis Recovery Is Here To Help— Reach Out To Us Today

If you or a loved one is seeking heroin detox or rehab, we can help guide you through the process! Our highly-trained therapeutic and clinical experts at Oasis Recovery offer a safe and comfortable space for clients to undergo addiction treatment.

Our team of medical experts offers a wide range of services and amenities that are tailored to meet your particular needs. Contact us or call our addiction specialists today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the road to recovery.