If you are embarking on the journey to overcome heroin addiction, you have made a very courageous and life-changing decision. The first step in this process is heroin detoxification, also known as heroin detox. Detox is a challenging but necessary phase that helps you or a loved one cleanse your bodies of the toxic substances associated with heroin use so you can be on the road to recovery. It is important to know what to expect during heroin detox so you can better prepare for the physical and psychological challenges ahead.
There are many benefits of heroin detox in Memphis, TN in a professional medical environment. Read on for more information.
Medical Supervision
When you or a loved one are going through heroin detox, it is extremely important to do it under the care and supervision of medical professionals. This is due to the fact that the withdrawal symptoms from heroin can be very intense and even life-threatening. Some of the symptoms you can experience from heroin withdrawal include vomiting, nausea, anxiety, muscle pain, and insomnia. Medical staff members can provide the necessary medications and other treatments to help alleviate these symptoms and ensure a safer and much more comfortable detoxification process.
Duration of Detox
You will not know ahead of time how long the duration of your heroin detox will be since it does vary from person to person. There are many factors that contribute to this, such as the length of time you used heroin, the intensity of your heroin use, your overall individual health, and if you have other medical or mental health conditions. Usually, acute heroin withdrawal symptoms peak within the first 72 hours and then gradually subside over the following days.
Physical Symptoms
The physical symptoms of heroin withdrawal happen right away and are very noticeable. These symptoms can include flu-like symptoms as well as sweating, muscle aches, and restlessness. While these symptoms can be very uncomfortable, they’re normally not life-threatening. Medical professionals can administer medications, such as methadone or suboxone period to help manage these symptoms so you will have a much smoother detoxification process to endure.
Psychological Symptoms
Keep in mind that heroin detox is not only a physical challenge but also a psychological one. You may experience intense cravings, anxiety, depression, and mood swings. Mental health support, including counseling and therapy, is essential during this phase to address the underlying psychological aspects of addiction and provide coping mechanisms for managing emotional challenges in the future.
Nutrition and Hydration Support
When it comes to heroin detox in Memphis, TN, it is important to focus on your nutrition and staying hydrated. This is because heroin addiction often leads to malnutrition, since you may have neglected your dietary needs while in the midst of your addiction. During the detoxification process, nutrition becomes a very important aspect of your overall recovery. This is because proper nutrition helps to restore your physical health and provides your body with the necessary nutrients it needs to start the healing process.
Since you may be feeling nauseous and may even be vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, proper hydration is extremely important. By drinking plenty of water, you can help to alleviate some of your physical symptoms. Also, medical professionals can administer intravenous fluids if you need them to stay adequately hydrated.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to heroin detox. Each person’s journey is unique, which is the reason that you should have a treatment plan in place with medical professionals based on your specific circumstances and your needs. This is why it’s so important to seek out heroin detox in Memphis, TN.
