Opioid addiction is a major problem throughout the nation and continues to claim people’s lives all too often. It has even been deemed an epidemic. Opioid misuse can lead to addiction and other very serious health consequences. It’s important to spread awareness about this type of addiction and how dangerous it is. Anyone can struggle with opioid addiction, regardless of race, age, gender, or nationality. 

It is also important to be able to recognize the signs that someone is struggling with an opioid addiction so that you can encourage them to seek treatment before it’s too late. 

Understanding How Opioid Addiction Happens 

Opioids are prescribed to people who are dealing with intense and often long-lasting pain. This can be the result of an injury or a recent surgery. They may also be prescribed to individuals struggling with pain related to cancer or those who experience chronic headaches or backaches. Opioids are strong drugs that should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor. 

The most commonly used opioids are codeine, hydrocodone, fentanyl, oxycodone, morphine, and oxymorphone. 

Some people can fall into opioid addiction completely unintentionally. They may have been prescribed the medication for a legitimate purpose and taken it as intended. However, as time went on, they could have discovered they could no longer stop taking the drug. 

Other people misuse opioids intentionally. They acquire them illegally and then use them for recreational purposes because they enjoy the high it gives them. Furthermore, they may tell themselves that they are in control of their opioid use, only to soon become dependent upon it and need to use more and more of the drug to experience the same effects. The longer that this goes on, the higher the chances are that the individual will struggle with severe health consequences. 

Common Side Effects of Opioids 

Opioids can affect people differently. Some people who take opioids as prescribed by their doctor might not experience any symptoms. The likelihood that one would experience certain side effects is, of course, heightened if they are taking them incorrectly or without a legitimate prescription. 

Some side effects that can be associated with opioid use include: 

• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness 
• Dry mouth 
• Itchy skin
• Respiratory problems
• Immune system problems 
• Heart problems 
• Rigid muscles 
• Sleep problems 
• Constipation 

Recognizing the Signs That Someone Is Struggling With an Opioid Addiction 

Some people can hide their opioid addiction well, while for others, it can be more obvious. There are both physical and behavioral signs to look for. 

Some possible signs of opioid addiction include: 

• Frequent changes in weight 
• Small pupils
• No appetite 
• Consistent flu-like symptoms 
• Changes in personality 
• Becoming secretive or deceptive
• Stealing money or asking to borrow money
• Decreased performance at work or school 
• Tending to withdraw from family or friends
• Being irritable one minute and happy/excited the next 

Recognizing the Signs of an Opioid Overdose 

Opioid overdose can progress quickly, which means that you need to act fast before it’s too late. Recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose is critical and could be the difference between life and death. An opioid overdose can more likely occur if the individual is using opioids along with alcohol or other drugs. 

Some signs of an opioid overdose include: 

• Pinpoint pupils
• Bluish lips or fingernails
• Cold, clammy skin
• Vomiting 
• Gurgling noises
• Slowed heartbeat
• Breathing that slows or stops
• Lack of responsiveness 

If you think someone may be experiencing an opioid overdose, it’s very important to act quickly instead of only waiting for their condition to progress before you call for help. Be sure to call 911 right away and stay by the individual’s side until help arrives. Do not leave the person alone. Try your best to keep them awake and talking. Be prepared to answer any questions that the paramedics may have when they arrive, as this can affect how they treat the person.

Some examples of questions they may ask include: 

• How old are they? 
• Did they use alcohol or other drugs besides opioids? 
• How much of the drug did the individual take?
• When was their last dosage?
• Do they have any known allergies?
• Are they on any prescription medications?
• Do they have any known health complications? 

How to Talk to Someone Struggling With an Opioid Addiction

If you suspect that someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, the best thing that you can do is confront them about it and have an honest conversation. Express to them how their substance misuse makes you feel and remind them of the severe health consequences they may face if they continue down this path. Encourage them to seek professional treatment and assure them that you will be there to support them along the way. 

Make sure that you stay calm and avoid getting angry or emotional. 

The opioid epidemic is becoming a bigger issue throughout the nation and is claiming countless lives. It is important to spread awareness about the dangers of opioids and to be able to recognize the signs of opioid addiction. This way, someone struggling can get the help that they need before it is too late. The longer that an opioid addiction goes on without being treated, the more the individual is at risk for experiencing severe health complications. Some signs that someone is struggling with an opioid addiction could include changes in appearance, such as pinpoint pupils, personality differences, or sneaking around. If you are struggling with substance use disorder, call our team at The Kimberly Center at (855) 452-3683.