Heroine has been coined ‘the silent killer’ because of its insidious nature and the way it can destroy lives without immediate, visible signs. Unlike some other drugs that may cause noticeable effects right away, heroin can lead to fatal overdose or long-term damage without much warning.
Watching a loved one be consumed by heroin addiction is an incredibly painful and heartbreaking experience. The sense of helplessness is overwhelming, but one of the most important things you can do for someone struggling with a serious addiction is to recognize the signs early, so you can help guide them into the treatment they need, like drug rehab.
Whether you’re concerned about a family member, friend, or partner, identifying the warning signs early on can be crucial in getting them the help they need. Here are seven physical indicators of heroin addiction.
1. Dry Mouth
Heroin, an opioid, can cause dry mouth, a condition known as xerostomia. Like other opioids, heroin affects the central nervous system (CNS). One way it does this is by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which control various bodily functions, including saliva production. When these receptors are activated, the brain’s signaling to the salivary glands gets suppressed, decreasing saliva production. Dry mouth is a very common side effect of opioid use.
2. Low Energy
Lethargy from heroin use is a result of its sedative and depressant effects on the CNS, as well as its impact on brain chemistry, oxygen levels, sleep, and nutrition. While the initial high may provide a sense of euphoria and energy, the aftermath and long-term effects often lead to a cycle of fatigue, physical exhaustion, and mental sluggishness. This lethargy is one of the many harmful consequences of heroin use, which not only affects the user’s energy levels but can also severely impact overall health and well-being.
3. Inability to Sleep
Heroin use can cause significant insomnia through a combination of its impact on neurotransmitters, disruption of natural sleep patterns, and withdrawal symptoms. While heroin may initially induce drowsiness, its long-term effects lead to disrupted sleep cycles, poor sleep quality, and difficulty maintaining restful sleep. The physical and psychological stress that comes with addiction only worsens the problem, making insomnia one of the many serious side effects of heroin use.
4. Chronic Itching
A common visible and well-known sign of heroin use is chronic itching. Itching from heroin use is primarily due to histamine release, which is a direct result of the drug’s effects on the body. Heroin also affects the nervous system, the circulation of blood to the skin, and the body’s hydration levels, all of which can contribute to this uncomfortable symptom. While it may seem like a minor side effect, chronic itching can be bothersome and is a sign of the broader impact heroin is having on the body.
5. Weight Loss and Other Changes in Appearance
Heroin use can lead to significant weight loss and noticeable changes in appearance due to the drug’s impact on the body. One of the primary reasons for weight loss is that heroin suppresses appetite, making users less likely to feel hungry or eat regularly. This decreased interest in food and the drug’s ability to speed up metabolism often results in unhealthy weight loss over time.
Heroin can cause digestive issues such as constipation, nausea, and vomiting, further complicating proper nutrition.
The drug also affects the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients, leading to malnutrition. As users become more dependent on heroin, their overall health declines. They may develop pale skin, sunken eyes, and a haggard appearance. Chronic use can also impair the body’s ability to heal or maintain healthy skin, contributing to dry, dull, or discolored skin. Overall, the combination of poor nutrition disrupts bodily functions, and the physical toll of addiction leads to drastic changes in both weight and appearance.
6. Difficulty Focusing
Heroin affects focus and alertness. While the drug may provide temporary euphoria, its long-term effects dull mental sharpness, making it difficult for users to concentrate, make decisions, and stay engaged with their surroundings. This cognitive shift, combined with the physical toll of addiction, can severely hinder everyday functioning and overall quality of life.
7. Skin Sores and Scabs
Heroine causes sores and scabs for several reasons, including poor immune function, injection site damage, skin picking, dehydration, and inadequate nutrition. The drug’s direct effects on the body, such as compromised circulation and the introduction of bacteria, as well as the physical toll of addiction, contribute to skin issues that can lead to painful lesions and scabs.
Heroine is one of the most addictive substances out there, which means a full-blown addiction is possible after just a few uses. By the time its subtle signs become apparent, the addiction may have already taken hold. That’s why it’s crucial to help your loved one get to an addiction recovery center.
If you suspect someone you love is struggling with heroin, opioids, or any other hard drug, contact our women’s and men’s rehabilitation centers in Idaho and Utah.