Drug addiction is a very serious issue that affects millions of American families every year. Addiction is much more widespread than most people could believe, which is why most do not understand it. The idea that addiction is the problem of a weak individual is archaic and false. New studies and research has proven that addiction is very complicated and difficult to understand. Why one person can use drugs and quit while others become hooked is still a mystery today. Treatment for addiction is a complex process that is being perfected every day. The more research and treatment options have created more efficient drug addiction recovery systems. Regardless of the type of program it all begins with detox. Detoxification is the process where the body completely rids itself of all chemicals, toxins and drugs. Depending on the patient and their situation this could be an all-natural detox or a chemically assisted program. In some cases it is safer to use prescription medications to wean patients off drugs. In most cases, it is best to detox naturally in a medical facility through exercise and proper nutrition. Detox is characterized by the drug withdrawal symptoms, which can be uncomfortable. For many, the withdrawal from drugs is quite painful and a reason why they continued to abuse drugs.
Why Does Withdrawal Make You Sick
Withdrawal is a natural process in which the body reacts to not having a certain drug or chemical in their system. It is a way of the body saying that it needs something. When a person takes drugs they alter the way the body and brain function. Long term use of a drug can completely shut down a part of the bodies functioning as it has adjusted to having that chemical in the system. When a person stops taking that drug it craves the chemical that the drug supplies, which it has substituted for naturally produced chemicals. Some withdrawal effects are minor, but some a very severe. These side effects can include nausea, vomiting, cold sweats, tremors, hallucinations among other issues. The body and brain are no longer functioning normally when addiction takes place. Some of the withdrawal side effects can be life threatening and must be monitored by medical professionals.
How Drug Abuse Affects the Body: Withdrawal
Drug abuse negatively affects many aspects of the body. In particular, it damages the way the central nervous system works and hormones. When a person suddenly stops using drugs they will experience pain. Drugs have worked to silence the central nervous system, now it is finally awake and returning to normalcy. This is similar to hormones. When a person is in withdrawal their emotions will vary greatly. Drug dependency and tolerance could be the culprit if you or someone you know suddenly has elevated blood pressure, profusely sweating, nausea, vomiting, pain and drastic mood swings. If this is the case get help immediately.
Getting Help
When dealing with drug addiction it is imperative to get help immediately. The longer addiction is allowed to continue the direr and desperate the situation can become. Rock bottom is a sad myth that does not make any sense. Unfortunately, too many addicts have found that rock bottom is drug overdose and fatality. Do not wait until it is too late. Withdrawal from drug abuse and addiction can be uncomfortable, but it is the first important step towards a healthy and happy life. If you or someone you love is abusing or addicted to drugs seek professional help immediately. There are thousands of helpful hotlines that can answer any questions for friends and family of addicts.