How Can I Better Manage Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms?
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Detoxification is one of the most difficult steps in overcoming an opioid addiction, as it can often cause intense and uncomfortable symptoms. In many cases, patients are unable to tolerate the symptoms of opioid withdrawal on their own, resulting in a relapse. To give yourself or your loved one the best possible chance of beating their opioid addiction, consider professional detoxification and medical withdrawal management. At Revival Recovery Center in Brighton, MI, board-certified nurse practitioner and addiction specialist Lisa Perna provides a full range of addiction and recovery services, including medically assisted detox, withdrawal management, and more. Review the information here to better understand how opioid withdrawal symptoms can be managed with a medical professional.
What is opioid withdrawal?
When a person has been addicted to opioids for a long period of time – or has used large doses of opioids regularly – they can experience significantly disruptive and uncomfortable symptoms when the opioid use is discontinued, a period known as withdrawal. Some of the most common symptoms of withdrawal from opioids include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever or chills
- Headache
- Muscle ache
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Trembling or shaking
- Elevated heart rate
- Diarrhea
- Stomach ache
How long does opioid withdrawal last?
Opioid withdrawal symptoms can last for up to two weeks or longer, making it exceptionally difficult for patients to tolerate on their own. With medical withdrawal management, patients have a much greater chance of completing the opioid detox process and getting on the road to a full recovery from opioid addiction.
How does medical withdrawal management work?
Following a thorough consultation and evaluation, Lisa will recommend the most appropriate detoxification approach for you or your loved one. In more complex or severe cases, in-patient detox may be necessary, while other patients may qualify for outpatient detox with close monitoring. To mitigate the symptoms of withdrawal and increase a patient’s chances of a successful detox and subsequent recovery, one or more of the following may be included in an assisted detoxification program:
- Prescription medication
- Counseling
- Therapy
- Family support
- Monitoring
What is PAWS?
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is a secondary phase of withdrawal that can occur after the initial (acute) withdrawal. PAWS is particularly dangerous, as it can happen at any time and last for up to two years or longer, dramatically increasing a patient’s risk for relapse. In addition to offering assistance with detoxification and acute withdrawal, our caring team offers post-acute withdrawal treatment and support to help patients continue their recovery journey. Benefits of PAWS treatment include mitigating withdrawal symptoms, stabilizing the patient’s mood, and better the chances for a full recovery.
Does insurance cover withdrawal treatment?
In many cases, insurance benefits will cover treatments associated with addiction and recovery, including opioid detoxification and withdrawal assistance. If you have questions about your coverage, call your insurance provider or our team, and we will be happy to assist you.
Regain your life with opioid addiction treatment in Brighton, MI
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and needs help with recovery, call Revival Recovery Center in Brighton, MI to schedule your consultation with board-certified nurse practitioner Lisa Perna, and take the first step toward getting your life back today.