A drug addiction occurs when an individual becomes dependent on a drug to the extent that they feel it is impossible to manage without it. Conditioning the body to rely less on the addictive drug after consistent use is extremely difficult and can be fatal if not treated. Although a patient may have the desire to abstain from taking the drug, their body will often negative reactions based on its chemical dependence. Knowing what to expect and being able to recognize symptoms allows the patient to seek timely treatment to avoid such a severe reaction.
Irritability
Irritability is one of the primary symptoms of withdrawal. Emotional fluctuations are not uncommon as a patient attempts to deal with the cravings he might be experiencing. As a result, the patient may experience extreme anxiety about obtaining the addictive drug, being able to manage without it or feeling ill as a result of abstaining from it. It can be difficult to maintain concentration and focus on other things outside of their symptoms and impulses. Feelings of irritability and anxiety can occur at any time; however, it is not uncommon for feelings of restlessness to occur at night, thereby causing insomnia. Some patients’ pupils may appear dilated.
Flu-like Symptoms
Adjusting to a decreasing dependency on the drug is not easy, physically or mentally. As the body responds to this adjustment, the patient may exhibit flu-like symptoms. The patient may experience muscle aches or headaches. Treating this symptom should be supervised by a physician to monitor the proper administration of pain medication. A patient shouldn’t attempt to treat his pain symptoms independently as it can pose the temptation to abuse pain medications. Some patients experience a fever or elevated temperature. Some patients report cold sweats where they feel cold, have goose bumps and may be sweating simultaneously.
Allergy-like Symptoms
Some patients experience symptoms that resemble those of allergies. Spontaneous tearing or increased tearing is a common symptom. Some patients report mild itching, believed to be the result of the body ridding itself of the toxins from the drugs. A patient may also experience an itchy or runny nose. Similarly, a patient should report these symptoms to a physician and refrain from self-medicating.
Disruption to Digestive System
Many patients experience a number of symptoms that disrupt their ability to properly digest food. Some patients experience a loss of appetite. Some patients feel nauseous often and may vomit or experience diarrhea. In severe cases, patients may suffer from abdominal cramps. Patients should report these symptoms to a physician to ensure proper nutrition to avoid dehydration and malnutrition.
