An opiate is a drug used for pain relief. Opiates, such as heroin, opium, morphine and codeine, are found in nature in the Asian poppy's seed pod. Opiate use often leads to dependence and addiction. Numerous symptoms follow opiate addiction. A parent or doctor who is familiar with the symptoms of heroin or other opiate addiction can easily spot signs that someone is abusing opiates. Opiate addiction is a serious problem. It may sometimes lead to sudden death.
Cognitive Changes
Disjointed cognitive abilities are a sign of opiate addiction, according to the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services (USDHHS). An opiate addict may have disturbed thought processes and an inability to think logically.
Changes in Breathing Patterns
Breathing at a slow rate is often found with opiate abuse and addiction, according to USDHHS. A change in respiration rate is common with dependence on opiates.
Physical Changes to the Body
Opiate addiction causes easily visible changes to the body, according to Heroin Detox. One change is noticeable track marks from injecting drugs. An opiate addict may wear long sleeves all the time to hide the track marks, even in warm weather. Heavy sweating may also occur with the abuse of opiate drugs.
Decreased Pupil Size
Very small pupils of the eye are a sign of opiate use and addiction, according to USDHHS. This sign is one of the easiest to notice and may be the first clue that someone is addicted to opiates.
Exhaustion and Loss of Consciousness
A person who is displaying enormous exhaustion and sliding in and out of consciousness may be an opiate addict. This symptom may be sporadic or ongoing. It is a serious symptom that may indicate that an overdose due to use of opiates may be imminent.
Distraction
A symptom of addiction to opiates may be a high level of distraction during daily life. A person who is unable to concentrate on tasks and duties may have a problem with drugs. Also, he may show an excessive focus on thinking about or talking about how to obtain drugs.
