Heroin addiction can be challenging to identify. If you are concerned that a loved one is struggling with heroin addiction, then knowing the physical signs can help you determine that it is time to do something about it. Signs of heroin use can be hard to identify individually. When multiple symptoms start appearing all at once, you may suspect that something is wrong.
If you are unsure whether someone is using heroin, you can also contact the heroin detox center at Pillars Recovery. We can go over the physical signs of heroin use so that you have a better understanding of what to look for. If you have any further questions, feel free to call us at 866.782.0247. We are here to help.
The physical signs of heroin use can be broken up into three categories:
1. Health Conditions
A loved may exhibit health conditions when taking heroin, such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Dry mouth
- Constricted (small) pupils
- Sudden changes in behavior or actions
- Disorientation
- Cycles of hyper-alertness followed by nodding off suddenly
- Droopy appearance, as if extremities are heavy
Keep in mind that these signs could indicate a need for any drug addiction treatment or alcohol addiction treatment – not just heroin use. However, they are reliable indicators that your loved one is using some kind of substance.
2. Evidence
The most iron-clad sign that a loved one is using heroin is physical evidence. If you see any of these items lying around (usually stored together in a secret place), then it is possible that your loved one is using heroin:
- Needles or syringes not used for other medical purposes
- Burned silver spoons
- Aluminum foil or gum wrappers with burn marks
- Missing shoelaces (used as a tie off for injection sites)
- Straws with burn marks
- Small plastic bags, with white powdery residue
- Water pipes
3. Behavior
Behavior is similar to someone’s physical appearance. You may not know that they are using heroin, but you know that something is not quite right. When it comes to behavior, there are plenty of indicators that someone is using heroin or needs prescription drug addiction treatment such as:
- Lying about the problem or avoiding eye contact when confronted
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Slurred or incoherent speech
- Loss of motivation to go to school, work, or anywhere else
- Poor hygiene and physical appearance
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Stealing or borrowing money from loved ones
- Wearing long pants or long sleeves to hide needle marks
What You Can Do for Your Loved One Showing Signs of Heroin Use
If you suspect that a loved one is using heroin, then contact Pillars Recovery today. We can give you recommendations, resources, and other information on ways that you can intervene and get your loved one some help. To find out more about the substance abuse treatment we offer, call us today at 866.782.0247. We are here to help you with drug and alcohol addiction.
