Long-Term Effects of Heroin Abuse

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Medically Verified: September 29, 2024

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Long-Term Effects of Heroin Abuse

Long-Term Effects of Heroin Abuse

Heroin is a dangerous, highly addictive opiate drug. Heroin abuse can lead to short and long-term consequences, including overdose and addiction. People who use heroin can quickly become dependent on it. Heroin addiction typically requires intensive treatment and ongoing support. 

This article will explore the long-term effects of heroin abuse. You will learn:

  • The side effects and risks of heroin
  • The long-term effects of heroin abuse
  • How to recognize heroin abuse and addiction
  • What to expect during treatment for heroin abuse
  • Where to find substance abuse treatment and recovery support

If you or someone you love struggles with heroin use disorder, you are not alone. Reach out to the specialists at The Living Room to explore our holistic treatment programs. Contact our intake team to find the right level of care, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment. 

What is Heroin?

Heroin is a highly addictive, illegal opiate drug derived from opium poppy plants. Heroin comes in several forms, including powdered and black tar heroin. Heroin users typically inject, smoke, or snort this dangerous drug.

Heroin binds to opioid receptors in the brain. This dangerously addictive drug affects regions of the brain related to pleasure, pain control, and emotional regulation. People may experience euphoria while using heroin, which can lead to abuse and addiction.

It can be very challenging to treat heroin addiction. However, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs can help people with heroin addiction overcome it and move forward. 

Many people continue to experience long-term medical and mental health problems related to heroin abuse. People recovering from heroin addiction often require significant support and ongoing treatment to prevent a relapse.

The Dangerous Side Effects of Heroin

Heroin causes immediate, short-term effects, including euphoria and relaxation. People may also experience unwanted short-term side effects, including:

  • Drowsiness
  • Heaviness in the arms and legs
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Nodding off (temporarily losing consciousness)
  • Dry mouth
  • Itching
  • Difficulty maintaining focus
  • Memory problems
  • Slow heart rate and breathing

People who use heroin are also at risk of a lethal opioid overdose. An overdose is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Combining heroin and other substances increases the risk of overdose and other serious complications.

Heroin is highly addictive. People who abuse this drug for even a short period may become dependent on heroin. 

Once people develop dependence on heroin, they are likely to experience heroin withdrawal symptoms if they stop using it. Uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, including chills, nausea, insomnia, and intense cravings, can make it very difficult for people to avoid relapse. 

The Long-Term Effects of Heroin

Heroin abuse can quickly spiral into a life-threatening addiction. People may develop tolerance, meaning they need to use more of the drug to get its desirable effects. This can increase the risk of overdose. It can also make it more challenging to stop using heroin.

People who become addicted to heroin are at risk of long-term harm. Some common long-term effects of heroin abuse include:

  • Chronic constipation
  • Abscesses
  • Heart valve infections
  • Insomnia
  • Lung diseases, including pneumonia
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Collapsed veins
  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Mental health disorders, including antisocial personality disorder and addiction
  • Severe weight loss and malnutrition
  • Increased risk of contracting HIV and Hepatitis C

Heroin abuse can damage the brain, liver, kidneys, heart, and other vital organs. It can lead to life-threatening infections, breathing trouble, and other hazardous consequences. 

People who abuse heroin must seek treatment as soon as they recognize a problem. This will reduce the risk of developing long-term, life-threatening complications. 

Recognizing Heroin Abuse and Addiction

Heroin abuse can change the physical structure and chemical makeup of the brain. These changes can make it very challenging for someone to stop using heroin when they choose.

People with heroin addiction will continue to use this dangerous drug, even when facing serious or life-threatening consequences. Heroin addiction treatment programs can help people overcome the physical, psychological, and behavioral aspects of substance abuse. 

Recognizing addiction is the first step toward getting help. Some of the signs of heroin abuse and addiction include:

  • Sudden or dramatic weight loss
  • Changes in sleeping or eating habits
  • Severe fatigue
  • New or worsening depression
  • Falling behind at work or school
  • Neglecting hygiene, hobbies, and relationships
  • Isolating or only spending time with others who abuse drugs
  • Tuberculosis
  • Pneumonia
  • Insomnia
  • Scars, wounds, or abscesses on the arms or other areas of the body

You may recognize the paraphernalia people use to ingest heroin, including syringes, spoons, needles, or baggies. 

Treating Heroin Addiction

Heroin addiction is a complex, life-threatening condition. Treatment for heroin addiction typically begins with a medically-supported detox program, including:

  • Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and keep people safe during detox
  • Mental health treatment and emotional support
  • A secure environment
  • 24/7 access to medical and mental health treatment
  • Holistic therapies for comfort, including exercise, nutrition support, mindfulness, and acupuncture

After completing detox, people must continue to seek treatment. Comprehensive rehab programs offer specialized mental health care, education, and therapies. These therapies can help people develop the skills needed to prevent relapse in the future. 

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with heroin abuse or addiction, help is available at The Living Room. Contact our intake team to learn about our programs or schedule an intake assessment. 

References:

  1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Heroin Research Report
  2. JAMA Network: Behavioral and Social Effects of Heroin Self-Administration and Withdrawal
  3. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Heroin
  4. Science Direct: Heroin Addiction

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