Opiate Withdrawal

If you are currently suffering from an addiction to opiates, you understand the pain and emotional difficulties associated with withdrawal. For many people, the first few hours are too painful to handle, which forces them back into relapse. However, it is important to understand that opiate withdrawal is not an infinite problem. There is a timeline of opiate withdrawal and an end point. Although it may be difficult, reaching the finish line can help you live a life free of opiate addiction.

The Stages Of Acute Opiate Withdrawal

Acute opiate withdrawal is the period during which your body will suffer from severe to mild symptoms. There are three distinct stages of opiate withdrawal, with the most painful occurring over the first three to five

Opiates use causes extreme euphoria due to the production of excessive levels of endorphins. Once your body is clean of opiates, the opposing force kicks in. The excessive levels of endrophins will disappear. And you will suddenly start feeling the opposite effect of the one caused by opiates.

Thankfully, this unfortunate reaction will peak after about three days, with the whole first stage lasting no more than five to six days. Attending a professional detox service can help you work through this difficult process. For many people recovering from opiate addiction, getting help through the first stage may be the only help they need.

The Second Stage

After working your way through the first stage, your body will have regained much of its natural balance. It should start naturally creating endorphins again, which will help stabilize your mood. It will also help naturally kill much of the physical pain that you are likely feeling after the initial detoxification period.

However, your body still isn 't quite back to a stable state just yet. It will still occasionally crave opiates and will occasionally react in negative ways to their absence. Common second stage withdrawal symptoms include:

Continued depression

Less severe fever

Sudden chills

Cramps primarily focused in your legs

However, once you get through this stage, you are likely going to feel much more balanced and “normal.” Rehabilitation care during this stage often focuses on aftercare procedures, such as getting acclimated to a return to your every day activities. You may also receive advice on how to avoid relapses and tips on living a drug-free life.

The Potential Dangers Of Protracted Withdrawal

While opiate withdrawal is generally finished after about two weeks, there is still the chance that you may suffer from what addiction experts refer to as "protracted withdrawal." Protracted withdrawal is defined by SAMHSA as symptoms that mirror those felt during the early stages of acute withdrawal.

These symptoms may occur immediately after the early stages of withdrawal or may be delayed for months after your initial recovery. While your withdrawal symptoms during this phase aren 't likely to be as severe as the initial pain of withdrawal, they can still be troubling. Typical protracted withdrawal symptoms include:

Irritability

Sudden depression

Fatigue

Lack of energy

Poor sleep