Opiates are used in pain medication, and generally, a medical doctor prescribes them for people who have some type of physical problem that is causing intense pain. Opiates come from the poppy plant and are an intense painkiller. When the human body can’t produce enough opioids to manage pain, artificial stimulants can be introduced for a short time to help the recovery process.
Back injuries, surgeries, injuries related to industrial accidents and car accidents are situations where a patient can receive the intense pain medication until their condition improves. However, there are times when that practical use escalates and becomes a full-fledged addiction in need of drug treatment. Here are some factors that can exacerbate the issue.
Genetics and Addiction
Genetics can play a role in addiction, and people with a first-degree relative who has an addiction are more likely to become addicted to substances like opiates.
Biological Factors and Addiction
Biological factors come into play when we talk about opiate abuse. In the medical community, it has been suggested that some people are born lacking the neurotransmitter endorphins. When an addiction to opiates becomes real, people will seek to self-medicate by obtaining pain-killing drugs on the streets or turn to illegal drugs to satisfy their need for pain medication.
Environmental Factors
Environmental causes can be attributed to addiction due to the chaotic environment that an individual grows up in and sees first-hand the abuse opiates can cause.
Psychological Issues
Psychological problems can cause opiate abuse and addiction because there are mental health issues that are afflicting the addict and opiate abuse can help suppress the mental health problems.
Opiate addiction is very powerful and will cause people to behave in unusual ways to get what they need to get high. Many times, theft is common among opiate addicts and addicts in general because they need money to buy the drugs and don’t have it.
Deception and lying are other common traits of an opiate addict; they will engage in any activity that will get them the drugs they need and they will hurt anybody or anything to achieve the end goal and that is to get high. Many addicts will forge prescriptions to obtain drugs illegally.
Signs of Opioid Addiction
- Physical symptoms include but aren’t limited to elation or euphoria, drowsiness, confusion, constricted pupils, slowed breathing or loss of consciousness.
- Social symptoms include doctor shopping (seeing many different Dr.’s to fill the same prescription), dramatic mood swings, social withdrawal and sudden financial problems.
If you notice any or all of these symptoms are present in a friend or loved one, counsel them to get help at an inpatient rehab program right away. Opiate addiction can create lasting health problems that can be fatal if they aren’t treated immediately. Call Beachside today at 866-349-1770 to learn more about our rehab programs.