ReVIDA® Recovery Educates on Heroin Use and Risks

ReVIDA® Recovery of Morristown, Tennessee recently released a blog post going into detail about how heroin is used and the side effects that come from it. The use of medications similar to heroin, such as painkillers, is common among the people of Tennessee. Within the past year, over 4 million painkiller prescriptions were written in the state alone. The goal of the blog is to provide educational information so the community and people of Tennessee can make informed decisions about their health.

The blog describes the many forms of heroin, from a white or brown powder to a sticky black substance known as “black tar heroin.” Unlike other forms of opioids, which normally come in a tablet or pill form, heroin is processed into a powder more often than not. “It is extracted from the poppy plant and usually looks like a white or brown powder after processing,” the blog explains. “Depending on the type of heroin someone obtains, they can either smoke, snort, sniff, or inject it.”

“A common misconception is that it’s possible to avoid heroin dependence based on the method by which you consume it.” The blog continues. “Some believe that smoking heroin makes it easier to stop, but this is a myth. It doesn’t matter how heroin is taken. Each method of use comes with its own set of risks.”

Each form of heroin consumption comes with its own level of risk. There is no level of substance use that is inherently safe, and the same is true with heroin. “When smoked, heroin impacts both the respiratory system and lungs, causing breathing complications, central nervous system damage, and reduced lung function.” Smoking is one of the three most common methods of heroin consumption.

Next, there’s injection. The blog reminds readers that needles can often carry their own set of risks alongside putting a substance into the bloodstream that shouldn’t be there in the first place. Finally, snorting heroin is also a common choice. “Snorting heroin is damaging to the nasal passages – particularly the mucus membranes,” the blog reminds readers. “Inflammation in this area can cause chronic sinus issues. It can also create a hole in the nasal septum .”

Heroin use also comes with its own level of risks regarding dependence. The longer a person participates in substance use, the harder it might seem to stop. Opioid use in particular is known for the higher risk of overdosing, especially when dealers cut or lace their products with unknown substances. This can save dealers money but puts the consumer at a higher risk than usual. Withdrawal from heroin can occur within a few days of last use, and the side effects of withdrawal can make a person want to return to heroin, often increasing their risk of overdosing. This is where a recovery center can help.

No matter what stage of substance use or recovery a person is at and no matter how long they’ve been participating in substance use, ReVIDA® Recovery is here and willing to help. Their goal is to help people reclaim their lives from substance use.

ReVIDA® Recovery offers outpatient rehab services in a safe and supportive environment. They have specialists and licensed therapists ready to help those with a substance use disorder reclaim their lives. They can do this by providing services that help with finding a job, applying for aid, CPS, and housing services. They also have several locations in Tennessee and Virginia so that people can get help nearby.

For more information about ReVIDA® Recovery and their services, visit their website or call them at 423-631-0432.