Heroin is a very serious illegal drug. It seems to grab onto people and never let go until they are destroyed from the inside out. People use Heroin because it is an opiate which blocks pain and produces a relaxed sense of euphoria. Users build up a tolerance which means they must use more and more of it to achieve the same benefits.
If you think someone is addicted to Heroin, look for drug paraphernalia such as needles/syringes, spoons for burning, foil or gum wrappers with burn marks, and plastic bags with white powder residue.
The Side Effects — In the Beginning
Before consuming ANY drug, it is important to know what is going into your body and understand the short term side effects. Heroin passes into the brain quite quickly, often times causing the user to feel warm and heavy, followed by a drowsy feeling and loss of coordination. Other symptoms include:
• Nausea • Vomiting • Itching • Depressed Breathing • Slow Heart Rate • Unconsciousness
The Long Term Dangers of Heroin and the Aftermath
Though the side effects listed above are serious and can be damaging to your body, there are longer, more severe consequences of using this very destructive drug including:
- Weight loss and malnutrition
- Runny nose (not explained by other illness or medical condition)
- Needle track marks visible on arms
- Infections or abscesses at injection site
- For women, loss of menstrual cycle (amenorrhea)
- Cuts, bruises or scabs from skin picking
- Collapsed Veins
- Bruising
- Arthritis
- Aids
Because Heroin is highly addictive, once you start using heroin, it can be very difficult to stop. Withdrawing from it is extremely painful and it's best to do so under medical supervision. Withdrawal symptoms include:
- Body and Muscle Aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia and Restlessness
- Cold Flashes
- Leg Twitches
If you want to get off Heroin, get medical treatment today.
Getting Assistance
If you or someone you know is addicted to heroin, then find professional help. Go to the hospital, find a community support group, see your personal doctor, or locate a good rehabilitation center. Don't wait! Get Help Today!
