Symptoms of drug withdrawal may mimic those of other medical conditions. You may not recognize that your loved one is having detox symptoms, but the individual who is using drugs can often self-diagnose withdrawal. If you’re experiencing some of these signs, you may be dealing with dependency or addiction.
Physical Symptoms of Drug Withdrawal
Symptoms of drug withdrawal can affect your entire body. Your muscles may ache, you may have a fever and chills, and you may experience spasms and tremors.
As the toxic substances leave your system, you may feel nauseated or have gastrointestinal distress. This is especially common in the first few days after you stop abusing a drug.
Depending on the substance that you were using, drug withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous. Seizures, changes in heartbeat and breathing issues can develop. That’s why it’s important to be monitored by a medical professional as you detox.
Psychological Drug Withdrawal Symptoms
Although physical symptoms can leave you feeling sick, the psychological effects of drug detox can be even more intense. Some of these include:
- Powerful cravings for the drug
- Depression
- Irritability and anger
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Difficulty focusing
- Memory problems
It can be hard to manage these symptoms alone. Working with a therapist who has experience with drug addiction can help you feel supported and understand what you need to do to cope.
How Long Do Symptoms of Drug Withdrawal Last?
Drug withdrawal symptoms and timelines are different for every person and substance. Your history with the drug and general health affect the detox time frame.
You may be wondering why you feel so horrible if quitting drugs is a good thing. When you use certain substances, your body adapts to having the chemicals in the bloodstream. It develops a “new normal” to allow you to survive even though you’re harming yourself.
When you stop taking the substances, your body has to readjust. This type of change is often distressing and can vary in length. If you have only been able to experience happiness or euphoria while under the influence, you might feel especially uncomfortable or upset without the chemicals manipulating your pleasure centers. It helps to know that you have the potential to find bliss and fulfillment without turning to drugs.
A reputable addiction treatment center can help you do this. At Ardu Recovery Center, a drug and cocaine detox center in Utah, we offer detox programs for a variety of substances. We focus on easing your symptoms and supporting your physical and psychological health during and after withdrawal with approaches such as:
- Mindfulness based interventions
- Integrative medicine
- Comprehensive pain management
- IV amino acid therapy
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
As the name “Ardu” suggests, our excellent treatment methods help you rise above addiction. Contact Ardu Recovery Center at 801-810-1234 to stop the cycle for good.