Opiate addiction is one of the hardest to overcome. Whether you started using opiates at a doctor’s direction or were accessing illegal drugs, the intensity of the rush at your first dose may still linger in your memory. Quitting any opiate will take a multi-pronged approach. If you’re wondering about your opioid withdrawal symptoms and when will they go away? It depends on the drugs you were using and the length of time you have been abusing them.
As a general rule, you can expect withdrawal symptoms to begin within 8 hours of stopping the drug. The peak of withdrawal generally hits within 72 hours of stopping, and the symptoms can last for up to two weeks. It should be noted that the symptoms will likely lessen in intensity as you work through detox. It should also be noted that you should never attempt detox alone. You need medical supervision to detox from opiates to avoid a dangers physical risk.
Withdrawal Symptoms to Watch
You may suffer from symptoms such as
- muscle cramps and skin irritation
- nausea and vomiting
- diarrhea and dehydration
- extreme sweating and agitation
- chills and overheating
These symptoms may make it hard for you to take in enough fluids to protect your kidneys and liver. Your gut may already be in distress, especially if you have been trying to reduce your opiate intake with products such as methadone. You may suffer increased discomfort due to a lack of privacy. The professionals monitoring your symptoms may need to measure your input and output in case they need to put in an IV. You may long for a shower but be too dizzy or nauseous to stand for long. Your care team is well-versed in assisting people in the throes of opiate withdrawal.
Caring for Your Body and Brain
As your symptoms begin to taper off and you’re feeling better, do your best to drink water and to eat the healthiest foods you can manage. While you may be very drawn to sweets and carbohydrates, do your best to add fiber to each meal to bring your gut back online. Shower as frequently as you’re allowed in warm, not hot, water. You may be tempted to use hot water, both to overcome any muscle spasms that are still causing you discomfort and to feel cleaner.
However, your skin may be prone to being oversensitive and a very hot shower could lead to even more discomfort. Hydrate both from within and without. As available, apply lotion to your freshly cleaned skin to avoid drying out and risking the itch of flaky skin. If you have a favorite fragrance, find out if you can bring in shampoo, lotion and body washes in that fragrance to soothe your mind as you work through detox.
Caring for Your Mind and Spirit
As the opiates leave your brain, your mind may become quite agitated. Cravings may claw at your peace of mind, making it hard to focus on anything else. You may be irritable and argumentative. Whenever possible, find a comfortable spot to sit and relax. You may not be able to commit to the idea of meditation, but even taking 30 seconds to sit down, close your eyes and breathe can lower your stress level and reduce your frustration.
Own up to the source of your frustration. When you feel ill or are fighting a craving, you may hate everyone around you. As you settle down, keep an eye on your goal and remind yourself that you have the a tremendous opportunity within your grasp. Relying on the professionals and your fellows in treatment could provide you with many skills that you can use for the rest of your days. Be patient with yourself.
Opiate addiction is tough to kick, both physically and mentally. Getting through detox will be tough, but once you’ve done it you can start the growing process of rehab. Our counselors are available 24 hours a day. Call 844-639-8371 to start a conversation that can change the direction of your life.