Opioid Overdose Symptoms
Many people don’t realize that there remains an opioid epidemic in the U.S. and around the world. Yet, the fact of the matter is that the epidemic still rages. The good news is there are many effective ways to treat opioid use disorder (OUD) and get over opioid overdose symptoms.
Better Understanding Opioids and Opioid Use Syndrome
Millions of people struggle with opioid misuse and OUD every day. This includes people who struggle with opioids on the street (such as heroin) and prescription opioids.
Many people also don’t realize that opioid use has gotten significantly more dangerous now that fentanyl can be found in many opioid combinations without people even knowing it. This can lead to more severe opioid overdose symptoms as well as potential opioid overdose deaths. This is also why being able to spot the signs and symptoms of OUD can be so critical.
The Signs and Symptoms of Opioid Use Disorder
Now, of course, the signs and symptoms of OUD are going to vary based on the individual. However, there are some more universal signs that someone may be struggling. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:
- Isolating away from family and close friends
- Losing interest in activities and hobbies once enjoyed
- “Nodding out,” meaning one becomes semi-unconscious while still sitting or standing
- Struggles with sleep cycles, including sleeping too much and not sleeping enough (hypersomnia and insomnia)
- Loss of appetite
- Having other mental health issues
- Using other substances and/or alcohol
- Feeling overly anxious, nervous, or “stressed out”
- Having depression and feelings of hopelessness and loneliness
- Harming oneself or others
- Experiencing suicidal ideations
As one can see, these are serious signs and symptoms, and they require professional help as soon as possible. Getting this kind of help will not only help with opioid overdose symptoms but will also help one to avoid long-term consequences.
Better Understanding Opioid Overdose Symptoms
Opioid overdoses may be more common than many people realize. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Opioid overdose can occur even with prescription opioid pain relievers and medications used in treating SUD such as methadone and buprenorphine. In addition, individuals using naltrexone for MOUD have a reduced tolerance to opioids, and therefore, using the same, or even lower doses of opioids used in the past, can cause life-threatening consequences.”
Opioid overdose symptoms include:
- A body going limp
- an individual becoming overly pale
- Blue lips and fingertips
- Vomiting
- A slowing of breath and heartbeat
- Nonresponsive
- Foaming at the mouth
- Being unable to control one’s bowels
If any of these opioid overdose symptoms are present, it is important to call 911 and get professional help as soon as possible. It is often a life-and-death situation.
Best Treating Opioid Overdose Symptoms
The good news is that there are many effective means, methods, and modalities for treating opioid overdose symptoms and OUD. The first step in treating opioid overdose symptoms is often finding a safe and secure detox.
Detoxes can be particularly helpful for opioid overdose symptoms. A detox can also be the first step toward getting the right addiction treatment one needs, such as residential addiction care and/or an intensive outpatient program (IOP). These are the places where one can engage with the right treatment methods. One of the most effective modalities for treating OUD is psychotherapy, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and/or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
These are particularly effective because they make the individual an “active participant” in their own recovery. According to the peer-reviewed journal Cognitive Therapy and Research, “Consistent with the medical model of psychiatry, the overall goal of treatment is symptom reduction, improvement in functioning, and remission of the disorder. In order to achieve this goal, the patient becomes an active participant in a collaborative problem-solving process to test and challenge the validity of maladaptive cognitions and to modify maladaptive behavioral patterns… Although these strategies greatly emphasize cognitive factors, physiological, emotional, and behavioral components are also recognized for the role that they play in the maintenance of the disorder.
The Phoenix Difference at The Phoenix Recovery Center
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we believe in a maxim that we refer to as “The Phoenix Difference.” It states, “Empowering individuals and families suffering from addiction and mental health disorders to celebrate life through lasting solutions.”
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we also believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” This is why all of our recovery plans are both individualized and comprehensive, with a focus on the long term.
Recovery is about the journey, never the destination. That journey can start right here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, where we will ensure that success remains our top priority. Recovery is out there. The key is to go out and get it.
Many people don’t realize what opioid overdose symptoms look like. This is unfortunate because being able to recognize these symptoms can be life-saving. The good news is that there are many effective means, methods, and modalities that can help one recover from opioid use disorder (OUD). If you feel like you or a loved one are struggling with issues of mental illness, addiction, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the right road to long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information regarding opioid overdose symptoms and how best to recover, please reach out to The Phoenix Recovery Center today at (801) 438-3185.
