ReVIDA® Investigates Dangers of Snorting Heroin

Wytheville, VA - ReVIDA® Recovery just released their latest installment on their blog page investigating the dangers of snorting heroin. They serve the Appalachian area and help those living with substance use disorders reclaim their lives. Their blogs serve as a free tool for those wanting to learn more about topics surrounding substance use.

“Heroin is a semi-synthetic opioid derived from morphine. Most commonly, heroin use is associated with injection, as this is one of the fastest ways to feel its effects. Those who are trying heroin for the first time tend to either snort or smoke it to avoid the stigmas attached to injecting substances. Snorting heroin also delays its effects by a few minutes. The misconception is that because the heroin has been snorted, dependency will not develop. It does not matter how heroin is used, dependence can always occur.

The half-life of heroin is not affected by the route of administration. This means that it will still be present in the body for the same amount of time after snorting or injecting. However, the effects may peak at different times,” the article states.

Heroin binds to opioid receptors in the brain, and when snorted, it can have adverse effects on the body. Drowsiness, dry mouth, flushing of the skin, and itchiness are common symptoms after snorting heroin. Depending on how much heroin was snorted, nodding in and out of consciousness can also happen. The arms and legs will feel heavy and it can be hard to move around.

People may begin snorting heroin because it carries less stigma than injecting it, making heroin a more appealing option to those starting to use it. Snorting is less invasive as there is no wound left behind. However, the dangers of snorting heroin are just as high as those who inject it. As damage occurs to the nose, blood can transfer to the straw being used. If sharing, this still poses a risk of contracting HIV/AIDS or hepatitis.

“As snorting heroin continues, breathing difficulties will get worse. In the long term, damage to the nasal cavity and septum can cause infection, leading to tissue death. The integrity of the nose can become compromised, leading to loss of smell and even possible surgery to fix the structure. Chronic lung infections such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can also occur. Heroin also decreases blood flow, especially in the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause damage to the bowels,” the article continues.

For anyone who uses heroin, an overdose is always a risk. An overdose occurs when too much heroin is in the body and slows the central nervous system. This can cause breathing to stop altogether, risking coma or death. In those who snort heroin, the nasal passageways may already be inflamed, making breathing even more difficult and putting the person at a higher risk for a life-threatening overdose.

ReVIDA® Recovery has locations throughout Virginia and Tennessee, and has been helping those living with substance use disorders. Their program highlights medication-assisted treatment for those with an opioid use disorder such as heroin, and has same-day appointments available. The program at ReVIDA® Recovery is flexible, and can fit many different work and home schedules. The staff can help with housing services, court letters, finding a job, and much more.

To learn more about ReVIDA® Recovery, call 276-859-4251 or visit their website.