One of the most alarming trends in illegal drug use in the United States is the resurgence of the use of heroin. In all demographic groups, the rise in those using heroin has increased, but the increase is most dramatically noted in women, higher income groups and those using multiple substances at the same time.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention the number of overdose deaths from heroin increased by almost four times between 2002 and 2013 with 8200 deaths in 2013 alone. The American Society of Addiction Medicine reports that in 2014 the number of overdose deaths from heroin or heroin in combination with other opioids (oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, codeine, etc.) was 10,574 with this number expected to continue to increase.
What Families Need to Know
Heroin abuse can happen to any family. It can happen to teens or adults and across all socio-economic classes. Often the signs of heroin abuse may be hard to identify as any of those using the drug may choose to use only at specific times and when away from friends and family.
Common signs of heroin use include nodding off and times of extreme alertness that seem to cycle. Often people seem to have heavy legs and arms and may appear disoriented and confused about what is going on around them. Small pupils, dry mouth and shortness of breath can also be visible signs shortly after use.
Most commonly heroin is injected, so signs of needles, burned spoons, aluminum foil with burn marks, burnt straws or pipes are often found. However, heroin can also be snorted, mixed with tobacco or marijuana and smoked, or it can be burned and the smoke inhaled through a straw.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of heroin abuse can help a loved on to find the help they need. At The Drug and Alcohol Detox Clinic of South Mississippi we provide outpatient care, just give us a call at 601-261-9101 to learn more.
For compassionate, professional help with heroin abuse, talk to staff at The Drug and Alcohol Detox Clinic of South Mississippi. You can read more about our treatment program at www.thedrugandalcoholdetoxclinic.com.
