Heroin is a deadly and highly addictive drug. A heroin addiction treatment program is essential for accessing the tools and resources that help lead to a lasting recovery from heroin use.
However, attending rehab doesn’t mean you’re safe from the impact of this powerful drug. The long-term effects of heroin are often overshadowed by discussions of its ability to create physical dependence, severe withdrawal symptoms, and a high risk of death.
Heroin use is often accompanied by long-term side effects. The sooner you get help with heroin use, the less likely it is that you’ll have to contend with these effects.
Call 888.498.2376 today to get help with heroin addiction at Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient.
The Dangers of Heroin Use
Heroin is considered to be one of the most dangerous drugs. Heroin overdose is common and often fatal. In addition to the psychological dependence that accompanies addiction to any drug, heroin is one of the few drugs that produce severe physical dependence.
Every time a person uses heroin, they risk death. Yet one of the greatest dangers of heroin is that attempting to stop using the drug can also be fatal. The severe side effects of heroin withdrawal mean that the only way to stop using the drug safely is with the help of a professional detox and treatment program.
Getting help with heroin addiction is a life-saving decision that could help you avoid the long-term effects of heroin use if you act early enough. Unfortunately, stopping heroin use doesn’t protect you from long-term heroin side effects if you have already developed symptoms.
Long-Term Side Effects of Heroin
The longer you use heroin, the more likely it is that you’ll need help dealing with the long-term effects even after you achieve sobriety. Fortunately, that conveniently fits understand the long-term impact of this drug. Treatment offers education and support for navigating the unique challenges that accompany recovery from heroin addiction.
Physical Health Issues
Heroin creates physical dependence. Over time, this takes a serious toll on the body. Some of the most common long-term physical health issues associated with heroin use include:
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Lung problems
- Tissue infections
- Blood infections
- Sexual dysfunction
- Issues with menstruation
- Clogged blood vessels
- Chronic constipation
- Insomnia
Heroin itself can be deadly. However, many of the long-term health consequences can also result in death. While the seemingly less serious side effects may not put a person’s life at risk, they can profoundly impact their quality of life and mental health.
Cognitive Issues
Heroin side effects can have a far-reaching impact on brain chemistry and function. The results range from mental health concerns to observable difficulties with cognitive function. The impact of long-term heroin use on the brain leads to symptoms that include:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty with critical thinking and problem solving
- Poor impulse control
- Changes to brain structure
- Imbalances in brain chemicals
- Poor decision-making skills
- Inability to manage stress
The cognitive impact of heroin use impacts individuals differently, but it can be profound. When a person has experienced a heroin overdose, they are also at high risk of experiencing permanent brain damage due to oxygen deprivation.
Overcome Heroin Use at Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient
Heroin addiction ends in one of two ways: death or recovery. Sooner or later, an overdose is bound to happen when heroin is involved.
The longer you wait to get help, the more you put your life at risk. And the longer heroin use goes on, the greater the chance you’ll find yourself struggling with the long-term effects even after you’ve built a strong recovery.
Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient offers an outpatient heroin addiction treatment program that conveniently fits your schedule. Our outpatient programs can be used as continuing care after an inpatient program or as a standalone treatment.
Contact us at 888.498.2376 today to learn more about the long-term effects of heroin and how to overcome heroin use at Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient.
