As the opioid epidemic continues to cause damage to many communities around the country, rates of fentanyl abuse and overdoses also continue to climb. Many know about prescription opioid drugs and heroin but may be less aware of the new dangerous opioid drug. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is much stronger and highly addictive. It is an opioid similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent and can be used to treat patients with severe pain, especially after an operation. However, when misused, fentanyl causes severe physical, mental, and emotional side effects. The opioid is also extremely dangerous because it is commonly mixed with other street drugs, often without the user’s knowledge, which leads to tragic results.
Fentanyl is one of the most common drugs associated with overdose deaths in the United States. Because it is highly potent and addictive, fentanyl addiction treatment and recovery can be challenging. However, at Northpoint Nebraska, we take an integrated approach to treatment to help our patients heal fully. We provide a safe, supportive environment for those struggling with addiction. Our fentanyl addiction treatment can help you overcome addiction and get back the life you want.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction?
Fentanyl addiction is extremely dangerous and requires professional treatment. When an individual is misusing drugs, they can become good at hiding the extent of their problem. In some cases, they may be in denial of their addiction and its negative effects on them. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction can get someone the help they need and prevent their health and safety from worsening.
The common signs of fentanyl addiction are:
- Intense cravings
- Inability to fulfill responsibilities at home or perform at school or work
- Relationships are negatively impacted because of fentanyl
- Taking the drug more often or for longer than intended
- Building a tolerance to fentanyl and needing a higher dose to get the desired effect
- Trying to quit fentanyl use and being unsuccessful
Some of the symptoms of fentanyl addiction are:
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Slow breathing or trouble breathing
- Fainting
- Loss of coordination
- Chest pain
- Hallucinations
- Swelling in the face, mouth, or throat
Because fentanyl addiction causes such harmful physical and mental side effects, it is critical to go through recovery at an addiction facility. If you recognize these signs or symptoms in yourself or someone you know, do not wait to contact a professional.
Understanding Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
Participating in fentanyl addiction treatment is the safest and most effective option for successful recovery. Trying to quit on your own often fails and can be dangerous and potentially fatal. At our facility in Omaha, Nebraska, we provide a safe, healthy environment for patients to go through each stage of their recovery journey. We provide a medical detox program where our staff monitors patients during detox and provides care and medication to help patients manage their withdrawal symptoms. This is a physically and mentally taxing process, and we work to ensure all our patients have the care and support they need to make it through safely and successfully.
During fentanyl addiction treatment, patients also participate in our various treatment and therapy programs. Participating in programs like Vivitrol treatment, family therapy, and a relapse prevention program helps those in treatment repair their physical and mental health. We strive to help patients understand the root causes of their addiction and learn how they can manage their recovery for the rest of their lives.
Discover the Benefits of Substance Abuse Treatment at Northpoint Nebraska
If you are struggling with addiction, help is available. At Northpoint Nebraska, we provide substance abuse treatment for various addictions, including fentanyl addiction. Contact us today at 888.351.3834 to learn more about how we can help you or your loved one through treatment and recovery.