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5 Signs of a Fentanyl Overdose

Man experiencing signs of fentanyl overdose

While many people think the opioid crisis centers on illegal drugs like heroin or prescription opioids like OxyContin, fentanyl is a current leader in opioid overdose and death across the United States. Both illicit and prescription fentanyl contribute to daily abuse and overdose. Do you recognize the signs of fentanyl overdose? You need to. Like other opioids, fentanyl is incredibly difficult to quit taking without professional help. A fentanyl addiction treatment program is the safest, most effective way to quit fentanyl.

If you or someone you love is struggling with fentanyl abuse, don’t wait. Call Northpoint Nebraska today. Our Omaha treatment center provides comprehensive fentanyl addiction treatment. Call us now at 888.351.3834 to learn more about spotting signs of fentanyl use and how to prevent overdose with treatment.

What Is Fentanyl?

Opioids, belonging to the opiate drug family, were originally derived from the opium poppy and have been utilized for centuries for pain relief and inducing euphoric experiences. However, synthetic opioids, created in medical labs, pose a significantly greater risk. These synthetic opioids are far more potent than traditional opiates or opium.

One such example is fentanyl, which is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine. Fentanyl, known for its ability to block pain receptors in the brain and produce intense feelings of euphoria, has gained popularity in recent years and is unfortunately highly addictive. The alarming potency of fentanyl also raises concerns about the risk of unintentional overdose.

Dangers of Fentanyl Abuse and Addiction

Like other prescription drugs, it can be easy to abuse fentanyl even with a prescription. The body builds a tolerance to fentanyl very quickly, meaning someone may need higher doses to achieve the same effect. For those with chronic pain, this can easily lead to abuse. Signs and dangers of fentanyl include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Changes in vision
  • Depression
  • Dry mouth
  • Uncontrollable shaking
  • Chest pain
  • Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
  • Anxiety
  • Changes in heartbeat
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dizziness
  • Seizure
  • Hives
  • Hallucinations
  • Confusion
  • Severe muscle stiffness
  • Loss of coordination

Spotting Signs of Fentanyl Overdose

When someone becomes dependent on prescription opioids or heroin, they may turn to fentanyl because it’s increasingly easy to access on the street. While the FDA regulates prescription fentanyl, it’s hard to know what street fentanyl is cut with and how strong it is. Unfortunately, this leads to overdose and death.

5 Signs of a fentanyl overdose to watch for include:

  1. Slow pulse, dangerously low blood pressure, and heart rate
  2. Nausea and vomiting, foaming at the mouth
  3. Limp body, poor response time
  4. Cold and clammy skin
  5. Slowed, shallow, or stopped breathing

As the opioid slows down the body’s processing speed, it can affect organ systems and cause the heart to stop completely. Unfortunately, this can lead to comas and death. Those experiencing overdose cannot help themselves, so it’s important to spot signs of overdose to help others right away. If you see the signs of a fentanyl overdose, call 911 immediately.

Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Programs in Omaha, Nebraska

Unfortunately, fentanyl use is on the rise across the country and here in Omaha. The best way to overcome fentanyl use is with addiction treatment. If you or someone you love is struggling with fentanyl, Northpoint Nebraska can help. Our programs focus on dual diagnosis and behavioral therapy for accessible outpatient recovery. Programs include:

  • Drug detox and rehab
  • Alcohol detox and rehab
  • Co-occurring disorder treatment
  • Medical intervention
  • Relapse Prevention
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Onsite gym
  • One-on-one counseling

Get the support you and your loved ones need with our accessible, state-of-the-art clinic in central Omaha.

Benefits of Fentanyl Addiction Treatment

Fentanyl addiction treatment is crucial for individuals on the path to recovery, and Northpoint Nebraska in Omaha provides a comprehensive inpatient fentanyl addiction treatment program. At Northpoint Nebraska, clients receive exceptional care and support through a range of specialized services.

One of the key benefits of the program is round-the-clock medical and therapeutic supervision, ensuring that clients have constant access to professional guidance and care. The structured detoxification methods employed at Northpoint Nebraska help individuals safely and comfortably navigate the initial stages of their recovery journey.

Moreover, each client at Northpoint Nebraska receives personalized care plans and counseling, tailored to address their specific needs and challenges. This individualized approach ensures that clients have the support they need to overcome their addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms. From personal coping skills techniques to relapse prevention strategies, Northpoint Nebraska equips clients with the tools necessary for long-term success.

Holistic Approaches

In addition to these core components, we also offer a range of holistic approaches to complement the treatment program. Activities such as yoga therapy, art therapy, and recreational activities provide clients with creative outlets for self-expression and stress relief. Nutrition guidance is also provided to support overall wellness and promote physical recovery.

With a comprehensive range of services and attention to individualized care, Northpoint Nebraska ensures that clients receive expert help throughout their fentanyl addiction treatment journey. The goal is to provide the necessary support and resources for clients to achieve lasting recovery and lead fulfilling lives.

Learn More About Fentanyl Treatment at Northpoint Nebraska Now

If you or someone in your life is using fentanyl, don’t quit cold turkey. Call us now and receive the treatment you need and deserve. Reach the staff at Northpoint Nebraska today at 888.351.3834 or use our online contact form to enroll in our addiction recovery programs.