Don’t try to kick the addiction on your own. We are here for you.
Opioids are a prescription medication often used to manage severe and chronic pain. It numbs the pain and creates feelings of euphoria. 
As you can imagine, this leads to a high potential for opioid abuse and addiction. In fact, according to the NIH, over 2.5 million Americans suffer from opioid use disorder. If you are dealing with opioid misuse or know someone who is our Silver Spring, MD, doctors have helped patients overcome their addiction and can help you, too.
Common types of opioids include oxycodone, fentanyl, buprenorphine, hydrocodone, codeine and morphine. Heroin is also an illegal form of opioids. If you are misusing opioids this simply means that you are taking the medication without following your doctor’s instructions. You may be using them more often than prescribed or taking them from someone who has been prescribed this medication.
The signs and symptoms of opioid addiction include:
- Taking the drug in larger doses or for a longer period than intended
- Having difficulty cutting back or controlling your usage
- Strong cravings for the drug
- Not meeting duties and obligations at work, school or home
- Continual usage despite warnings and awareness of risks
A family history of substance abuse can also increase your risk for dependence.
The problem with opioid abuse is that when a person tries to quit they can experience serious and unpleasant withdrawal symptoms including:
- Rapid heart rate
- Sweating
- Flu-like symptoms
- Fever
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Cold sweats
- Muscles aches and spasms
This is why it’s important to turn to a doctor who will be able to guide you through the recovery process to reduce the likelihood of serious side effects. Of course, trying to treat the addiction yourself isn’t the best approach, as there is a high probability of relapse with opioid addiction. Our medical team can help you or a loved one by creating the proper and customized treatment plan they need. Common treatment options include:
- Medications to ease withdrawal symptoms during the detox phase
- Injections to reduce cravings and to reduce the risk for relapse
- Long-term maintenance medications to help kick the addiction
- Counseling to provide support and guidance
Are you or someone you love dealing with opioid addiction in Silver Spring, MD? If so, Exceptional Primary & Preventive Healthcare can help. Call our office today at (301) 587-6464 to schedule an appointment that could get you on step closer to leading an addiction-free life.