If you or someone you care about is wrestling with heroin addiction, you are far from alone. This struggle is a human one, shared by countless others across the globe. It is undeniably complex, painful, and fraught with uncertainties. But there is hope, and there is help. BRC Healthcare seeks to shed some light on what heroin withdrawal does feel like—and what experiencing some signs of heroin withdrawal entails—and to point you towards resources that can assist in the journey toward recovery.
Our heroin detox center at BRC Healthcare employs evidence-based treatments to manage heroin withdrawal symptoms, minimize discomfort, and support our clients’ recovery. We understand the complexity of addiction and design personalized therapies to address each person’s unique needs and strengths. Contact us at to learn more.
What Is Heroin?
Heroin is an opioid drug made from morphine, a natural substance extracted from the seed pod of certain varieties of poppy plants. It is known for producing intense euphoria and a sense of relaxation. However, it is also highly addictive, and regular users quickly develop a tolerance, needing increasingly larger doses to achieve the same effect. This leads to a vicious cycle of dependency, and when the process is broken, withdrawal sets in.
What Does Heroin Withdrawal Feel Like?
Heroin withdrawal can be intensely uncomfortable and feel like a severe flu. It is accompanied by an overwhelming craving for the drug, making it a daunting hurdle on the path to sobriety. Imagine the worst flu you have ever had, then multiply the discomfort several times. That is the physical side of heroin withdrawal.
But it is more than just physical discomfort. Emotional and psychological symptoms also take a toll. Anxiety, restlessness, and an extreme sense of dissatisfaction often accompany withdrawal, making it difficult for the person to focus on anything other than their craving for the drug.
Signs of Heroin Withdrawal
Understanding the signs of heroin withdrawal can be the first step in getting help for oneself or assisting a loved one in their journey to sobriety. Here is a timeline of what typically happens during heroin withdrawal:
- 6-12 hours after the last dose – This is the onset of withdrawal symptoms. These may include agitation, anxiety, muscle aches, excessive yawning, insomnia, and sweating.
- 24-48 hours – Symptoms increase in intensity, and new symptoms, including abdominal cramping, diarrhea, dilated pupils, nausea, and vomiting, can appear.
- After 48 hours – Symptoms peak, including intense drug cravings, unpredictable mood swings, depression, and hopelessness.
These symptoms highlight the importance of seeking professional medical help during withdrawal. The complexities of withdrawal underscore the need for an experienced, compassionate, and comprehensive support network.
Understanding Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
While the experience can vary between individuals, it is essential to know the full range of symptoms one might expect during heroin withdrawal. They fall into two categories: physical and emotional.
Physical symptoms may include:
- Severe muscle and bone aches
- Insomnia
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Cold flashes with goosebumps
- Uncontrollable leg movements
- Emotional symptoms can involve:
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Intense craving for the drug
- Depression
- Irritability
While these symptoms are typically not life-threatening, they can lead to complications that require immediate medical attention, like dehydration or aspiration during bouts of vomiting. The psychological symptoms are significant, too, and the risk of self-harm or suicide underscores the need for professional support throughout the withdrawal process.
Find a Heroin Detox Center in Texas at BRC Healthcare
If you or a loved one is facing the challenge of heroin withdrawal, BRC Healthcare is here to help. Our facility has state-of-the-art resources, and our staff is deeply committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care. Contact BRC Healthcare at and let us help you navigate the journey from withdrawal to wellness.