Opioid use disorder is a health problem. It happens when someone keeps using opioids even when they cause harm. Opioids are drugs that can ease pain. Some are medicine from a doctor. Others are illegal drugs. Opioid use disorder can be mild or very serious.

What Is an Opioid?

An opioid is a kind of drug. It may be a medicine tablet prescribed to you by a doctor. It may be fentanyl or heroin, too. Opioids can reduce pain. They are also capable of altering the function of your body and brain. When you use them frequently, your body may crave them to feel normal. Understanding how do opioids affect the brain is a key part of understanding why they are so habit-forming.

Common Signs of Opioid Use Disorder

You might have a problem if you notice these opioid addiction symptoms or signs of pain killer addiction:

• You want to use it even when you try not to.
• You take more than you planned.
• You try and fail to stop.
• You frequently get or use opioids.
• You miss work, school, or home duties.
• You keep using even when it causes trouble with friends or family.
• You feel sick when you stop using.
• You experience opioids and hallucinations or severe confusion.
• You require a higher dosage of the drug to achieve the same effect, indicating the development of opioid resistance.

If two or more of these happen in a year, a doctor may say you have opioid use disorder. The higher the number of signs, the more intense it might be.

Why Does This Happen?

Opioids change the brain. They will make you feel really good initially. Gradually, your brain becomes conditioned to require the drug. This makes it hard to stop. The risk can be increased by pain, stress, past trauma, the easy accessibility of pills or street drugs. They can become addicted even when they begin with a prescription from a doctor.

How Do Doctors Diagnose It?

A doctor will ask about your drug use and health. They may use a checklist to look for the symptoms opioid addiction. The doctor will also check your medical history. They will ask about your life, work, and family. Tests may be used to check for opioids in the body. Diagnosis helps find the right care.

What Treatments Work?

There are proven treatments that help people get better. Medicines can calm cravings and ease withdrawal. Some medicines help the brain feel balanced again. Counseling and therapy help people learn new skills. Both medicine and counseling together give the best results for many people. In emergencies, a medicine called naloxone can save a life if someone experiences a dangerous adverse effect of opioids.

Can Treatment Happen Online?

Yes. Many people can start care by telehealth. That means visits by video or phone. Telehealth can help people who live far away or who cannot travel. It can make care private and easier to fit into your life.

How We Can Help at Pure Psychiatry & Wellness Center

We make a warm and safe space for you. You can meet with us from home. We offer:

• Psychiatric Evaluation. We listen to you. We check your health and your use of medicines.
• Medication Management. If medicine can help, we explain options. We watch how medicine works for you.
• Telehealth Visits. You can meet us by video or phone. This makes care easier and more private.

We focus on mental health care. We help with concerns like anxiety and depression. We offer personalized care and support to help you feel better and stay well.

What If I Think I Have It?

If you think you have a problem, please reach out. You can call us for a first talk. You can ask for a psychiatric evaluation. If you feel unsafe or worry about an overdose, reach out for medical help right away. You do not have to do this alone.

Tips To Keep Yourself Safe Right Now

• Do not mix opioids with alcohol or other calming drugs.
• Inform a reliable friend or family member about the situation.
• Get medical help if you feel very sleepy or have trouble breathing.
• Ask a provider about safety planning and treatment options.

Final Words

Opioid use disorder is a recognized medical issue. It can start slowly. Not treating it will make it worse. Most people recover with proper treatment. There is a way to get assistance, and support can make a difference. We have come to listen and assist you in taking the next step forward.

FAQs

Q. Can it start from the medicine a doctor gives?

Yes. It can start from a prescription medicine. That is why we watch medicine use closely.

Q. Can I get help by telehealth?

Yes. You can meet with a doctor by video or phone. It can be private and easy to do from home.