Heroin is an illegal opioid that causes extreme euphoria and a trance-like state for several hours. The long-term effects of heroin use can lead to serious medical conditions, neurological impairments, and other physical problems that can become permanent and life-altering. In fact, people who use heroin for an extended time can expect to cut their life expectancy by up to 30 years.
A heroin detox center in New Hampshire gives folks a safe way to get through detoxing and begin repairing the damage their drug addiction caused. To learn more about the devastating long-term effects of heroin use, call 855.959.4521 today to speak to our knowledgeable staff.
Understanding Heroin Use Effects
Heroin is a semi-synthetic opioid that is very fast-acting and can cause a serious addiction just after a few uses. Several personal factors can make someone more susceptible to forming an addiction, including peer pressure, family history, and genetics. People with a history of addiction in their families are more susceptible due to their chemical makeup.
If you are worried that a friend or loved one is abusing heroin, here are some of the signs of heroin addiction:
- Using more heroin to maintain the same high
- Experiences intense cravings that consume all of their thoughts when not high
- Work or school performance begins to suffer
- Frequently nods off or has pinpoint pupils
- Sudden weight loss or other physical changes
- Tries to quit but is unable to do so alone
At Liberty Health Services, we understand how heroin’s long-term effects impact more than just the person abusing the drug. That is why we include family therapy in our addiction treatment programs.
What Are the Signs of Long-Term Effects of Heroin Use?
The longer someone abuses heroin, alcohol, or other drugs, the harder it will be for them to break free from their addiction. While there is no cure, several evidence-backed programs give clients a real chance to lead sober and healthy lives.
Here are just some of the signs of long-term effects of heroin use:
- Physical conditions – Long-lasting heroin effects can lead to liver disease, pulmonary infections, kidney disease, and chronic constipation. Other physical signs include collapsed veins, skin infections and lesions, a lack of personal hygiene, and severe weight loss.
- Mental conditions – Heroin abuse will also significantly impact clients’ mental health. Depression, anxiety, and paranoia are common with heroin abuse and can lead to self-harming behavior and suicidal thoughts.
- Sexual conditions – Folks will experience sexual dysfunction with long-term heroin abuse, including miscarriages and infertility in women, erectile dysfunction and sperm maturity in men, and a diminished sex drive for both.
- Risk of infectious disease – Men and women who abuse heroin put themselves at risk of HIV, hepatitis B and C, and endocarditis, a bacterial infection in the heart.
Long-lasting heroin effects can linger for several years or longer, depending on the length of abuse. In cases of severe addiction, clients may need to continue taking medication for the rest of their lives.
For the Top Heroin Detox Center in New Hampshire, Choose Liberty Health Services
At Liberty Health Services, we understand how dangerous heroin use affects people and how it can negatively impact their lives. We work closely with each client to understand their condition and help them develop healthy coping skills for managing their symptoms and triggers. Clients also get a chance to bond with their peers going through the same struggles, which can help their recovery.
Come to Liberty Health Services today to begin your road to recovery. Call 855.959.4521 or fill out our online form to get started. We can help you get your life back on track.
