Opioid dependence carries many unwanted physical and mental consequences for the addict. Health risks of opioid addiction are minimized by individuals in active addiction. As the leading provider of addiction resources on Long Island, our facility assists many addicts struggling with opioid addiction. A heroin epidemic is sweeping the nation, with overdose rates at record highs.
Raising awareness about the health risks of opioid addiction can save lives and offer a path to recovery in the form of inpatient treatment. Many residents of Long Island and all across the United States are at risk of experiencing the dangerous health effects of opioid addiction.
Dangers of Opioid Dependency
Opioids form a group of narcotic pain-relieving drugs that are often used for treating patients with chronic pain. When abused in high doses by addicts, these drugs create a euphoric high that is sought after by users. Common opioid-based drugs of abuse include:
- Heroin
- Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Lortab)
- Codeine
- Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
- Fentanyl
Recently a new wave of synthetic opioids has been used as a cutting agent in street heroin for a deadly high. Carfentanil is used as an animal tranquilizer because of its’ extreme potency, and drug dealers have been mixing this lethal opioid with heroin. Unsuspected users consume this cocktail of death at their regular heroin dosages and as a result overdose rates are climbing across the country.
Long-Term Effects of Opioid Abuse
The health risks of opioid addiction are numerous, causing many individuals to develop complications from long-term abuse. Mental health is greatly affected, often resulting in crippling anxiety and depression as soon as the opioid high wears off. Physical health is damaged over time, often because of intravenous use, with many addicts at a higher risk of developing health issues such as:
- Hepatitis C
- HIV
- Liver damage
- Endocarditis
- Weakened immune system
While under the intoxication of opiates, a user is often not aware of the health dangers and risks associated with his/her substance abuse. Many addicts are in denial and refuse to reach out for help which can treat and heal some of the health complications caused by opioid addiction. If you or a loved one are struggling with drug addiction, it’s important to receive comprehensive substance abuse treatment as soon as possible.
About Long Island Interventions
We’ve helped countless individuals and families that are affected by drug addiction and alcoholism across the New York area. Many people who develop a substance use disorder find it very difficult to stop using without professional help. If you or someone you know is looking for a detox, drug rehab, intervention, or outpatient drug rehab, give our interventionists a call today!