When you think of opioid addictions, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the potential for abuse and the negative consequences that follow.
However, what you may not know is there are also a number of side effects associated with opioid addiction on both your brain and body. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common side effects of opioid addiction as well as how they can impact your life.
Constipation
One of the most common side effects of opioid addiction is constipation. This is because opioids slow down the movement of the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to hard stools and difficulty passing them. In some cases, constipation can also lead to bowel obstruction, which can be a serious medical condition.
Drowsiness
Another common side effect of opioid addiction is drowsiness. This is because opioids work to decrease the activity of the nervous system, which can make you feel tired and sleepy. Drowsiness can also impair your ability to concentrate and make decisions, which can impact your work or school performance.
Nausea and Vomiting
Opioid addiction can also cause nausea and vomiting. This is because opioids stimulate the release of stomach acids, which can irritate the lining of the stomach and cause nausea. Vomiting can also occur as a result of the stomach acids irritating the throat.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is another common side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids decrease the production of saliva, which can lead to a feeling of dryness in the mouth. Dry mouth can also increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Itching
Itching is another common side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can cause histamine release, which can lead to itching and irritation. Itching can be especially bothersome if it leads to skin infections.
Sweating
Sweating is another potential side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can affect the thermoregulatory center in the brain, which can lead to sweating. Sweating can be especially bothersome if it leads to dehydration.
Anxiety
Anxiety is another common side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can cause changes in the brain that can lead to anxiety and panic attacks. Anxiety can also be a side effect of withdrawal from opioids, as people may feel anxious about the prospect of going without them.
Depression
Depression is another potential side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can change the way the brain processes neurotransmitters, which can lead to feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Depression can also be a side effect of withdrawal from opioids, as people may feel down and discouraged without them.
Mood Swings
Mood swings are another common side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can cause changes in the brain that can lead to drastic shifts in mood. Mood swings can be especially bothersome if they interfere with work or school performance.
Fatigue
Fatigue is another common side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can cause drowsiness and make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. Fatigue can also lead to further impairments in work or school performance.
Impaired Judgment
Impaired judgment is another potential side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can affect the part of the brain that controls decision-making and impulse control. As a result, people who are addicted to opioids may make poor decisions regarding their use, which can lead to dangerous consequences.
Memory Problems
Memory problems are another common side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can interfere with the brain’s ability to process and store information. As a result, people who are addicted to opioids may have difficulty recalling things that happened recently or even long ago.
Weight Gain
Weight gain is another potential side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can increase appetite and lead to cravings for high-calorie foods. Weight gain can also be a side effect of withdrawal from opioids, as people may overeat to compensate for the loss of the drug’s appetite-suppressing effects.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances are another potential side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can interfere with the production of hormones by the pituitary gland. Hormonal imbalances can lead to a number of problems, such as irregular periods, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction.
Liver Damage
Liver damage is another potential side effect of opioid addiction. This is because opioids can cause changes in the liver that can lead to inflammation and scarring. Liver damage can be especially serious if it leads to liver failure.
Opioid addiction can cause a number of serious side effects, both in the short term and the long term. If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. With treatment, it is possible to overcome addiction and live a healthy, happy life.
If you are struggling with opioid addiction, the Grand Falls Center for Recovery can help. We offer a variety of treatment options, including detoxification, medication-assisted treatment, and individual and group counseling. We also provide support for families and loved ones of those struggling with addiction. For more information, please contact us today.