Opiate withdrawal can be very difficult and can include many unpleasant symptoms. Your body and brain have become dependent on the chemicals in opiates and have to re-learn how to function without the drugs in your system. This can lead to many uncomfortable symptoms both physically, mentally, and emotionally. Prepare yourself and your space in advance so you have everything you might need. In addition, ask a doctor for advice before beginning a withdrawal program yourself. Ask a friend or family member to check in on you and be a support. And finally, withdrawal can be dangerous, so know when it’s time to seek medical care. Hopefully, you will be able to get through the initial discomfort and push through to living a sober life. Just remember that withdrawal symptoms won’t last forever and your body will be much healthier without opiates.
Survival Tips for Opiate Withdrawal: How to Stick to Your Sobriety
Prepare in Advance
Opiate withdrawal can lead to a number of unpleasant symptoms. The physical symptoms can include extreme nausea and vomiting. Also diarrhea, cramping, muscle aches and rapid heartbeat. In addition, there are emotional symptoms like agitation, anxiety, fatigue, and insomnia. Prepare yourself in advance by having medications on hand to help with these symptoms. You also might want to make sure you have a comfortable place to hang out. Include a change of sheets for sweating and fans.
Get Medical Advice
Because opiate withdrawal can be dangerous, it’s best to consult with your doctor before beginning. They may want to send you to a treatment facility. There you would be closely watched. In addition, they can give medications specifically designed for withdrawal. Never use any medications without asking your doctor first.
Have Support in Place
It’s important to have support in place before you begin trying to stop using opiates. Opiate withdrawal can be painful and dangerous, so you’ll want somebody to check on you. In addition, you may need help with basic tasks if you’re very sick. It’s also helpful to have somebody there to support you emotionally. A supportive friend or family member can help you remember why you’re quitting in the first place.
Know When To Seek Medical Care
Finally, because opiate withdrawal can be dangerous, it’s important to know when to seek medical care. Symptoms can include extreme nausea. So be careful to drink plenty of water or other fluids. If you become dehydrated it can be very dangerous and even deadly. If you show any signs of dehydration, seek help immediately.
Opiate withdrawal is an unpleasant and drawn-out process. However, despite its difficulty, it is worth it when you consider how much healthier your body will be without opiates. Remember that it will not last forever. Prepare yourself in advance as much as possible to make the experience less difficult. Ask a doctor before quitting opiates cold turkey. In addition, find a supportive friend or family member who will check on your periodically. And finally, know when to seek medical care if you’re showing symptoms of dehydration. Hopefully, you’ll be able to keep your goal of living without opiates in mind and get through withdrawal. Your body will thank you for getting clean and living a sober life.
