Heroin and prescription opioid painkillers are some of the most commonly abused drugs in Texas and are responsible for a large proportion of overdose deaths in the state. But even if you don’t experience an overdose, you aren’t in the clear when it comes to the consequences of opioids. When you misuse opioids over a long period, whether for recreational use or by prescription, you’re susceptible to a wide range of physical and mental health issues. Learn more about opioids and the brain and how opioid addiction develops, then commit to getting support to quit if needed.
Get the help you need to recover from the long-term effects of opioids by reaching out to Promises Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086. We offer a range of inpatient and outpatient opioid addiction treatment programs, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), to help you feel more comfortable as you go through withdrawal. Call us today to enroll in our opioid rehab in College Station.
What You Should Know About Opioids and the Brain
Doctors most often prescribe opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone to treat moderate to severe pain from chronic health conditions, injuries, or surgeries. The euphoria and relaxation caused by opioids can tempt some people to take them more frequently or access them illicitly, such as through heroin or other street drugs.
Although the effects of opioids are most notable in your body, the action of the drug starts in the brain:
- People consume opioids.
- The drug binds partially or fully to opioid receptors in the brain, depending on the type of opioid.
- Excess dopamine disrupts normal communication between brain cells.
- Pleasurable feelings rush in, along with a reduction in pain.
While this process can be critical for helping people manage temporary or chronic pain, there’s also a darker side to taking opioid medications.
The brain neurotransmitter dopamine is responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward. Opioids reinforce you to take the drug again each time you experience these desirable feelings. Over time, your brain becomes less reliable at releasing dopamine on its own and requires opioids to achieve the dopamine rush.
Not only that, but the brain will adapt to the dose and require higher doses of opioids for the same level of pleasure. This is how the cycle of addiction begins.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Opioids?
In addition to addiction and overdose, there are other concerning factors to consider regarding the long-term effects of opioids.
Physical Health Problems
Opioids are well known for impairing healthy digestive function and causing chronic constipation. As a central nervous system depressant, opioids can lead to respiratory depression or trouble breathing. Additionally, long-term use of opioids can weaken your immune system, and you may find yourself getting sick more often.
Worsened Mental Health
Prolonged opioid use can impair your cognitive function, resulting in mood swings and memory loss. It can also instigate or worsen anxiety and depression.
Difficulties in Your Work and Personal Life
Chronic opioid use affects not just you but also those around you. When you become dependent on opioids, you’re more likely to neglect your responsibilities at work and home, which can deteriorate your relationships and lead to possible job loss.
Enroll in Opioid Rehab at Promises Brazos Valley Today
If you’re struggling to quit opioids despite negative consequences on your health and well-being, Promises Brazos Valley is here to help you get your life back on track. We offer a range of addiction treatment programs to cover all your recovery needs, from detox to inpatient and outpatient programs to aftercare and alumni groups. Call 979.426.0086 or complete our online form to get started on your journey to an opioid-free lifestyle today.