Opioids are commonly prescribed in the United States to treat acute and chronic pain. These powerful painkillers have the potential to cause physical dependency as your body builds up a tolerance to the medication. As you build up a tolerance, you’ll need increasing amounts to create the same effects. When tolerance increases, the chances of experiencing opioid overdose symptoms increase.
The growing use of opioids in this country has caused epidemic levels of addiction, and it has also led to a rise in overdoses. In fact, more than 14,000 people died from an opioid overdose in 2014. If you or a loved one is using one of these potentially deadly drugs, it is important that you recognize opioid overdose symptoms and get emergency medical attention as soon as possible.
Opioid Overdose Symptoms
It can sometimes be hard to tell if someone is experiencing an intense high or a life-threatening overdose. If you’re not sure, it’s best to treat the situation like an overdose because it could save the person’s life. Opioid overdose symptoms include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Unresponsive to sound or touch
- Slow or irregular breathing or heart rate
- Fingernails and lips may turn blue or purplish-black.
- Pale or moist face
- Vomiting, gagging sounds or a snoring, gurgling noise
It’s rare that a person dies soon after an overdose. The process usually can take several minutes or even a few hours. However, the victim usually survives because someone recognizes the opioid overdose symptoms and gets emergency medical assistance immediately.
Overcoming Opioid Dependency
An opioid overdose may be an indication of a physical or psychological dependency on the drug. Treatment options are available that can help you or a loved one get clean and sober. These programs also give individuals the tools needed to live drug-free in the future. You can take advantage of addiction treatment programs, such as:
- On-site drug detox program
- Residential rehab
- Intensive outpatient rehab
- Young adult rehab
- Pain management to reduce the need for medications
These programs take place in a caring environment that features amenities like a wellness center, personal trainers, yoga classes and therapeutic massage therapy. You also enjoy a dietary team and 24-hour access to food. This innovative, integrated, holistic approach helps strengthen your mind and body as you try to overcome an opioid addiction.
Where to Get Help
Don’t let addiction control your life for another moment. A quality rehab program can help you overcome your chemical dependency. If you want to free yourself from addiction, call Ashley Addiction Treatment today at 866-313-6307.