By: AndreaBergman
What are opioids, and why are so many people using them? There has been a lot of talk about this particular drug, including how it has been used over illicitly. Opioids are one of the most commonly abused drugs in the world, other than alcohol. However, what you may not know is just how deadly it is. It is a real threat. Hundreds of Americans die on a daily basis. At Lakeview Health, we are here to help you through opioid addiction treatment and into long-term recovery. Our addiction treatment programs give you the tools you need to manage your addiction and regain control of your life. To learn more about your treatment options, contact Lakeview Health today at [Direct]. Experience the difference our team can make.
What Are Opioids Then?
Opioids are a type of drug. This classification includes both prescription and illicit forms of the drug. Some examples include fentanyl, heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine.
When pharmacists first developed opioids, they assured doctors that these medications were not addictive. As a result, they freely prescribed opioids to their patients for chronic pain and in situations just after serious surgery, because the synthetic opioids act as a pain reliever. That is very risky because it can lead to the development of addiction quickly.
Each opioid works in the same basic way. The drug quickly binds to the opioid receptors of the brain, causing an intense euphoric high. All opioids come from the opium poppy plant. Synthetic versions are manufactured to have the same effects as natural versions. That includes providing a block of pain in the brain. In addition, that means there is a disconnect between the pain signals coming from your body and the brain. These drugs also work to trigger the reward center of the brain. That helps to stimulate pleasure or the sense of high that many people seek. Unfortunately, when you use these medications more than once, you are in serious danger of becoming addicted.
Why Are Opioids Dangerous?
There are various risks to using opioids. When you consider what opioids are, you may think that it is a harmless, natural substance. Yet, opioids can do damage in a variety of ways.
- They can damage the heart.
- They can lead to cognitive dysfunction, which can mean brain damage.
- They can interact with other drugs creating serious side effects.
- Some put people at risk of coma or overdose because they depress the respiratory system significantly.
- They can lead to dependence and tolerance, creating addiction.
How Do You Know If You Have an Addiction?
What are opioids doing to your health? If you are seeing the use of them and recognizing the damage they are creating in your body, now is the time to take action. With a wide range of treatment options available, you will be able to work to heal.
We can help you at Lakeview Health. Your care may include:
- Medical drug detox
- Partial hospitalization treatment
- Intensive outpatient therapy
- Residential treatment programs
- Dual diagnosis treatment
What are opioids causing in your life? Damage to relationships? Difficulties with pain management? Let our team offer the help and guidance you need to start on the path towards recovery and on to your future.
Start on a Path Towards Recovery at Lakeview Health
What are opioids doing to you and your future? If you or a loved one is using these drugs to cope with life or abusing them in any other way, it’s time to seek out help. Our team of qualified medical doctors and master-level, licensed clinicians are ready to provide the guidance, care, and support crucial in overcoming opioid addiction.
The team of Difference Makers at Lakeview Health can offer that support and guidance to you. When you are ready to learn more about your options, contact us at [Direct] for immediate support.
Lakeview Health strives to keep our clients and staff safe during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Learn about new guidelines and updates today.
We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare. We do not currently accept Medicare, Medicaid, or Florida Blue.
