By: Lakeview Health
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, hydrocodone acetaminophen is the most frequently prescribed opioid in the United States. This substance is most frequently prescribed for moderate and severe pain. Like most opioids, hydrocodone acetaminophen induces euphoria at a rapid rate, making it incredibly easy to become addicted to. While harsh, withdrawal symptoms of hydrocodone-acetaminophen can be managed by licensed professionals.
Hydrocodone Abuse Symptoms
The symptoms of hydrocodone use, abuse, and addiction will vary wildly among those who are addicted to the narcotic. Some of the major symptoms of hydrocodone abuse include the following: Mood symptoms:
- Euphoria
- Abnormally cheerful mood
- Abnormally despondent mood
- Anxiety
- Emotional liability
Behavioral symptoms:
- Drowsiness
- Requesting frequent refills on hydrocodone
- “Doctor shopping” or visiting a number of doctors to obtain prescriptions for hydrocodone-containing products
- Social withdrawing
- Withdrawing from previously-pleasurable activities
- Financial problems
- Borrowing money from others
- Stealing or borrowing pain medication from others
Physical symptoms:
- Lightheadedness
- Physical dependence upon the narcotic
- Withdrawal symptoms when drug use is stopped
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pupil constriction
- Blood clotting issues
- Rash
- Constipation
- Challenges with urination
- Dry throat
- Itching
- Dizziness
Psychological symptoms:
- Difficulty thinking
- Psychological dependence – the belief that one must be high on hydrocodone in order to function
Effects of being Hydrocodone Abuse
- Pinpoint or blown pupils
- Shallow, slow breathing
- Respiratory failure
- Loss of consciousness
- Liver disease
- Liver failure, which may not be reversible
- Seizure
- Coma
- Death
Therapy Options For Hydrocodone
Therapy during the addiction treatment process may take many forms and often goes beyond simple counseling or group meetings. For individuals who respond slowly to conventional therapies, the following methods may be offered:
Wellness Therapy
- Yoga
- Weight Lifting
- Cardio
- Healthy Eating
Expressive Therapy
- Music Therapy
- Art Therapy
Experiential Therapy
- Equine Therapy
Many of these programs are offered either daily or weekly and are designed to allow individuals suffering from addiction to actively fight against their addiction. Each of these methods has been tested and is proven to assist individuals in freeing themselves from their addiction.
Withdrawal Symptoms Of Hydrocodone Should Be Managed Medically
Withdrawal symptoms may be managed medically for individuals who have developed a physical addiction to this substance. Physical addictions will cause intense physical pain as an individual enters withdrawal from hydrocodone-acetaminophen. Managing this pain may be as simple as offering a pain reliever for a short duration as their body works through withdrawal. For some, specific substances are offered that block the effects of hydrocodone-acetaminophen from reaching the brain if relapse is a possibility during treatment.
Other Things To Know About Withdrawal Symptoms Of Hydrocodone
For many individuals, successfully managing the withdrawal symptoms of hydrocodone acetaminophen is as simple as choosing the correct treatment center for them. A good rule of thumb when attempting to identify the treatment center that is right for you is to select the one where you believe you will be the most comfortable. Withdrawal from opioids can be especially nasty, so maintaining comfort can help ensure you do not relapse. Lakeview Health is a nationally accredited drug and alcohol recovery program located in sunny Jacksonville, Florida. This private center offers a full range of treatment for individuals who are suffering from hydrocodone acetaminophen addiction and addiction to other substances. The team at this facility are exceptionally skilled in addressing the most common issues that may lead individuals to develop abusive habits. With individualized, gender-responsive treatment, Lakeview Health helps men and women get on track to a healthier tomorrow. Don’t wait any longer to receive the help you deserve. Call Lakeview Health today at 866.704.7692 for more information about how you can begin to recover from your addiction to hydrocodone-acetaminophen. The path to wellness begins with a single phone call, so call right away.