Signs of Heroin Use That Suggest You Need Treatment
Heroin is a highly addictive drug that is derived from mixing morphine and acetic anhydride. Heroin addiction and heroin overdose are now at epidemic proportions in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Chances are you know someone who is or has used heroin.
Physical Signs Someone is Using Heroin
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are many physical signs that someone is using heroin. Several sources mention:
- weight loss
- lack of appetite
- pinpoint pupils
- runny nose
- nosebleeds
- dark circles under eyes
- sores around nose and mouth
- sallow appearance
- loss of menstruation
- needle or track marks on arms, legs, between toes
- burns on fingers or mouth
- chronic infected sores on arms or other body parts due to injections
- nausea
- vomiting
- scabs from picking at the skin
- constipation
- coughing
All of these signs are indicative of heroin’s effect on the body. Regardless of how a person uses heroin it takes a physical toll. If you or someone you know is exhibiting these signs, it is time to seek treatment.
Find a reputable treatment center today by calling 888-959-0638.
Behavioral Signs Someone is Using Heroin
Addicts also exhibit behavioral or psychological symptoms of heroin use. These signs usually begin to appear as the addiction gets worse. According to the Mayo Clinic the behavioral signs of heroin use are:
- euphoria
- reduced pain sensations
- lack of awareness
- inattention
- confusion
- depression
- anxiety
- memory loss
- trouble paying attention
- agitation
- irritability
- aggression particularly when in withdrawal
- mood swings
- mood disorders
Some of the behavioral or psychological symptoms of heroin use continue through withdrawal to become a problem later on. It is still unknown whether a mental illness existed before the heroin use and the addict was self medicating or the mental illness started because of the heroin use.
Other Indications that Someone is Using Heroin
There are other indications that a person is using heroin. These other indications are:
- selling possessions
- inability to keep a job
- fighting with family and friends over mood or heroin use
- withdrawal
- having overdosed on heroin
- losing your home because of heroin use
- frequent changes in living arrangements
- not taking care of responsibilities
- making sure that the drug supply does not run low
- risky activities such as sharing needles and high risk sex
- stealing to get the money for the drugs
- prostitution for the heroin
- lying about where you are and what you are doing
All of these things are part of the behaviors many exhibit while they are using heroin and indicate the need for addiction treatment.
Finding Heroin Addiction Treatment
If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these signs of heroin use, it is time to seek help. To find a treatment center that can provide the help that you need, call 888-959-0638. We can help you find your way onto the path to recovery.