Getting past the first few days or weeks of withdrawal symptoms is often the most challenging. Whether you’re struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, managing withdrawal symptoms can be difficult and when managed improperly, can lead to relapse.  The ability to cope with cravings means implementing good habits that divert your attention from the drug you’re craving to a new and healthy practice. If you’ve tried to quit your drug abuse before, you are aware that this is the worst part of the recovery process. Fortunately, these feelings don’t last forever and if you’ve gotten through the hardest part, it’ll become progressively easier.

What Kind of Withdrawal Symptoms Will I Experience When I Stop Using Drugs?

Withdrawal symptoms are dependent on the type of drugs,  the amount, and how long you have been using drugs. They also vary from person to person.

For example, people who abuse opioids–such as painkillers like morphine, OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin, or street drugs such as heroin–will experience several stages of withdrawal symptoms. According to the U.S National Library of Medicine early symptoms of withdrawal include:

• Agitation
• Anxiety
• Muscle aches
• Increased eye-watering
• Insomnia
• A runny nose
• Sweating
• Yawning

Late symptoms of opioid withdrawal include:

• Abdominal cramping
• Diarrhea
• Dilated pupils
• Goosebumps
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Opioid withdrawal reactions are very uncomfortable but are not life-threatening. Symptoms usually start within 12 hours of last heroin usage and within 30 hours of last methadone exposure.

However, after using opiates in high doses over a long period of time, it is recommended that you work with a medical professional or go to a detox facility in order to safely and comfortably stop using.

Detox Treatment Centers for Managing Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms will range from mild to severe depending on the type and severity of the drug and alcohol addiction. Freedom from Addiction can help you consult a medical physician, a hospital, or detox facility when stopping alcohol or drugs, as certain symptoms of withdrawal can be life-threatening. Call us today to begin your journey to recovery!