The term dope sick is often used when individuals are in withdrawal from opioid drugs. When opioid withdrawal symptoms occur, it usually indicates two things: that the person is addicted to opiates and not currently under the influence of opiates. It is critical to learn how to tell if someone you love is suffering from dope sickness, so you can encourage them to get help from an opioid detox center.
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, we offer a range of addiction detox services designed to ensure that you or your loved one can achieve the long-term recovery they need. Our wide array of services can significantly benefit individuals of all ages and genders with a combination of medication, support, and behavioral and holistic therapies. To learn more about how our opioid detox programs can help you or someone you care about overcome dope sickness, contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida today at 866.294.5306.
Dope Sickness Can Cause Tremors and Shaking
One of the most noticeable symptoms of dope sickness is shaking. This symptom is completely involuntary, and users will not be able to hide this symptom. It happens because the body is not accustomed to functioning without opioid drugs in the system.
Sometimes, individuals will not shake constantly. Instead, they may experience occasional tremors. If you notice this happening, and there is no explanation, it could be a sign that the person is struggling with opioid withdrawal.
Changes in Appetite May Indicate Opioid Withdrawal
Using opioid drugs can disrupt your digestive system and your appetite, so it makes sense that when you stop using opioids, your digestive system rebels. One of the common signs of dope sickness is having an insatiable desire to eat. Your body may be craving drugs, but without access to them, it is food that can feel like a temporary solution.
Individuals might also experience symptoms such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramping
- Constipation
While the exact combination of opioid withdrawal symptoms may vary, most people who are dope sick will struggle with some form of intestinal distress.
Severe Mood Swings
Many opiate withdrawal symptoms are physical. However, dope sickness can also involve behavioral or psychological symptoms. For instance, dope sickness can often cause severe mood swings.
You may suspect someone is struggling with dope sickness if:
- They appear to be overly emotional. Mood swings caused by opioid withdrawal might cause them to start crying about something insignificant seemingly out of the blue.
- They overreact to situations with anger or violence. The emotional ups and downs of opioid withdrawal might cause them to get upset and fly into a rage over something minor.
- They show signs of a mental health condition, such as suicidal thoughts, crippling fear, and apathy. Some people who are dope sick may suffer from anxiety, depression, or even paranoia.
Fortunately, all of these opioid withdrawal symptoms are temporary and will eventually pass. However, a person will likely need the assistance of an opioid detox program to get through it.
Temperature Fluctuations May Be a Sign of Opioid Withdrawal
Dope sickness impacts many parts of the body, and one way the body responds is by struggling to regulate temperature. Dope sick symptoms may start with hot flashes and then transition into chills and shivering. Extreme sweating is very common, and it can lead to dehydration in a short amount of time. Staff at an opioid detox center can help you stay hydrated during opioid withdrawal to prevent further complications.
Treating Someone Who is Dope Sick
One of the best ways to address opioid addiction is to attend a professional detox program. These programs can safely remove the substances from individuals bodies while simultaneously providing a range of therapeutic treatments, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Holistic therapies
These treatment modalities can help your loved one on the path to long-term sobriety.
Get Treatment for Opioid Withdrawal at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida Today
If dope sickness impacts someone you care about, seek professional help from an opioid detox center. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, clients can go through withdrawal in a safe, supportive environment. This is the first step to overcoming addiction, and it is not something that anyone should have to go through alone.
In a medically supervised detox program, clients can expect all of the following:
- Comprehensive intake evaluation
- Relapse prevention planning
- Dual diagnosis support
- Addiction counseling
- 24/7 medical monitoring and treatment
Being dope sick can be very uncomfortable, but there is no need for individuals to go through withdrawal alone. Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida offers locations in Fort Lauderdale and Jupiter, Florida, to give clients the support necessary for recovery. Begin the journey to sobriety by calling 866.294.5306 today or contact us online at your earliest convenience.
