Heroin is a highly addictive, illicit opiate drug. People who abuse heroin for even a short period may develop a dependence on it. People who become dependent on heroin may be unable to quit using it without significant medical treatment and ongoing support.

This article will explore the long-term effects of heroin abuse.

If you or someone you love struggles with heroin addiction, you are not alone. Compassionate, effective treatment is available at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Heroin?

Heroin is an opiate drug derived from opium poppy plants. Heroin comes in the form of a white or pale powder or a dark, sticky substance called black tar heroin. Heroin users typically smoke, snort, or inject the drug.

Once heroin reaches the bloodstream, it travels to the brain and binds to opioid receptors. It affects parts of the brain responsible for emotional regulation, pain control, and reward.

Heroin is an illegal drug that people manufacture and sell illegally. It is highly addictive. People who use heroin regularly or casually may quickly become addicted to it. Using heroin puts people at risk of a heroin overdose, which is likely to be fatal without immediate medical intervention.

In addition to the risk of overdose, heroin abuse can cause serious short and long-term complications. People who abuse this dangerous drug must seek treatment as quickly as possible so that they can work toward lifelong recovery.

The Side Effects and Risks of Heroin

Heroin causes immediate, short-term side effects that include:

• Heaviness in the arms and legs
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Poor concentration, memory, and focus
• Nausea and vomiting
• Relaxation
• Euphoria
• Slowed breathing and heart rate

During a heroin (opioid) overdose, people may take a large dose that causes their heart rate and breathing to become too slow. Anyone can experience an overdose, even those using heroin for the first time and those who have been using it for a long time. Combining heroin and other substances can increase the risk of overdose.

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Long-Term Dangers of Heroin Abuse

Using heroin for even a short period can lead to physical dependence and addiction. If someone with heroin dependence stops using it, they are likely to develop severe heroin withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms, including cravings, insomnia, and nausea, can make it very challenging to stop using heroin.

Heroin abuse can lead to long-term health complications and other consequences. Some of the most common long-term risks of heroin abuse include:

• Chronic constipation
• Insomnia
• Abscesses from intravenous (IV) drug abuse
• Heart valve infections
• New or worsening mental health conditions, including antisocial personality disorder, depression, and substance use disorder (SUD)
• Collapsed veins from IV use
• Pneumonia and other lung conditions from smoking heroin
• Sexual dysfunction
• Irregular or stopped menstrual cycles
• Extreme weight loss and malnutrition
• Increased risk of HIV and Hepatitis C infection from IV use
• Liver, brain, and kidney damage

People who abuse heroin may also face social consequences, including fractured relationships and isolation. Many face life-altering legal and financial issues, as well.

Those living with heroin abuse or addiction must receive comprehensive, medically-assisted treatment to overcome drug abuse and avoid relapse.

Recognizing Heroin Abuse

One of the first steps in getting treatment for heroin abuse is recognizing it. Many people who abuse heroin exhibit significant behavioral, physical, and emotional changes. Recognizing these signs of heroin addiction can help you seek treatment quickly.

Some common signs of heroin abuse include:

• Quick, dramatic weight loss
• Track marks on the arms, legs, or other parts of the body
• Increased isolation
• Fatigue, loss of energy, low motivation
• Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, and hobbies
• New or worsening mental health symptoms
• Noticeable changes in appetite and sleep patterns
• Finding paraphernalia, including spoons, syringes, and tourniquets

People who abuse heroin may not recognize the severity of their condition or be able to control their substance use. It is essential to seek treatment as quickly as possible to avoid worsening complications. Reach out to the specialists at Alamo Behavioral Health to learn how to help someone with heroin addiction.

Treating Heroin Addiction

Heroin addiction treatment typically happens in stages. After a thorough assessment, people usually begin treatment in a medical detox program. A detox treatment plan may include:

• Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms
• Round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment
• Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
• Mental health treatment
• Holistic therapies to soothe the body and mind, including yoga, mindfulness, and nutrition support

After a safe detox, people must continue comprehensive treatment to address the physical, behavioral, and psychological aspects of their substance use.

Find Heroin Addiction Treatment

If you or someone you love struggles with heroin abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our treatment and recovery support programs or to make an appointment.

References:

1. United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Heroin
2. National Institute of Health (NIH): What are the long-term effects of heroin use?
3. Science Direct: Chronic heroin use disorder and the brain: Current evidence and future implications