addict

The Many Health Risks Associated with Dependence on Opiates

Drug dependence has severe consequences on virtually every organ system in the body, according to Dr. Nora Volkow of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). The chemical structure of opioids wreaks havoc on many aspects of the brain and cognition because of its chemical structure, leading to severe changes in personality, memory, learning and judgment. In the most drastic cases, opioid use leads to death, but when it does not, it still leads to a progressive decline in health.

Medically-assisted drug addiction treatment is one of the most effective ways to help a person struggling with addiction. At Brightside Clinic in Northbrook, Illinois, specialists deliver a range of programs that promote recovery in the healthiest way.

If you are thinking about seeking treatment but are looking for the right reasons, here are the ways in which opioid addiction can negatively affect your health and wellbeing.

Physical Damage

The body deteriorates rapidly during opioid use, but this is not only because of the medication itself; in fact, being constantly driven to obtain opiates means that you pay less attention to your body and health. You are at risk of a range of conditions when using heroin, including blood-borne diseases such as HIV or hepatitis. The drug itself can cause heart failure and depression in your respiratory system. Long term effects can include hypoxia as a result of a lack of oxygen to the brain, as well as brain damage.

Social Detachment

Your emotional state is highly at risk due to the use of opioids. When the drugs take higher importance in your life than yourself or those around you, the addiction will take control of everything and lead to extreme social detachment. This may start with you wanting to keep your addiction a secret, but the continued isolation means that it becomes easier and easier to abandon everything you once held dear in your life.

Mental Instability

Long term use of opioids leads to severe changes in your mental stability. Most commonly, users experience anxiety or mood disorders due to chemical alterations in the brain. Decision-making ability and depression, as well as paranoia, are all common symptoms of opioid abuse.

Seeking treatment for opioid abuse is essential in ensuring that these problems do not develop, and the earlier you seek it, the better. Medically-assisted treatment and rehabilitation at Brightside Clinic will assist you with a personalized program of care. Call today at (224) 205-7866 to find out more about these programs.