Causes and risk factors
Prolonged consumption of opiate drugs and then stopping or reducing the intake of these drugs produces withdrawal symptoms. The drugs include heroin, morphine, oxycontin, methadone, etc.
Clinical presentation
The symptoms start within 12 hours of last use of opiate drugs and continues till 30 to 40 hours. Some of the symptoms are intense craving for opium, headaches, feeling tense, restless, or frustrated, agitation, irritability, uncomfortable feeling, and anxiety. Goose bumps may occur. Insomnia occurs. Difficulty in concentrating is experienced. There is inability to cope. There is increased weeping. Muscle aches, abdominal cramping can occur. Sweating can occur. There can be diarrhea, nausea, vomiting. Pupils are dilated.
Investigations
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Lab tests like blood test or urine test to confirm the use of opiate drugs.
Treatment
Treatment involves more of supporting care and medications. Detoxification of the body may be required. Eventual decrease in the dose of opiate drugs by opium replacement therapy includes low doses of nicotine in the form of chewing gum, lozenges, skin patches, inhalers, etc. which are prescribed to ease the withdrawal symptoms. Symptomatic treatment is helpful. Several institutions and hospital help in deaddiction to provide the necessary support and methodology to quit opium.
Complications
Complications such as breathing vomited material into the lungs, called aspiration; pneumonia; dehydration can occur. Depression may occur.
When to Contact a Doctor
One must consult a doctor if one wishes to get rid of the drug addiction. A doctor should be contacted when the symptoms of withdrawal are more intense.
Prevention
Counseling for non-usage of opiate drugs, joining support groups for addiction-free life prevents the intensity of withdrawal symptoms. Opium replacement therapy and other medications recommended by the doctor will help to minimize the withdrawal symptoms.
Systems involved
CNS, circulatory system, GIT, respiratory system,
Organs involved
Brain, stomach, lungs, muscles, eyes
