Short Term Effects
Opioids, such as heroin, make fast changes in the brain and body. These changes begin within seconds of use. Short term effects associated with heroin use may include:- Slowed bodily functions, including heart rate and breathing. Heroin slows the part of the brain responsible for automatic body processes.
- Altered emotions, which can cause fast addiction, even if the user only meant to try the drug one time
- Elimination of pain due to the blockage of pain signals from the brain
- A feeling of euphoria that fades quickly
Long Term Effects
While the short term effects of heroin can be life-altering, things tend to get worse over time. Long term effects of heroin abuse differ from person to person and can depend on several different factors. A person who started using heroin in good health, with adequate access to medical care may have a different range of long term effects than a person who struggled with health conditions before they ever tried the drug. Long term effects of heroin abuse may include:- Changes in the physical and chemical structure of the brain that create emotional and hormonal issues that may never fully resolve
- Deterioration of the brain’s ability to manage stress, make decisions, and regulate behaviors
- Increased dependence on and tolerance of heroin, requiring more and more of the drug to achieve the desired effect
- Heroin use disorder, a chronic condition that makes it nearly impossible to get off of heroin
Worried About The Long Term Effects of Heroin? We Can Help.
At Recovery Ranch, we’re here to help you get your life back. We offer many treatment programs, including:- Drug and alcohol detox
- Inpatient and outpatient rehab
- Aftercare program
- Family recovery
