As fentanyl misuse continues to be a growing concern across the nation, there remains a need for everyone to learn the warning signs of fentanyl addiction and the effects it can have on the body and mind. Real Recovery Solutions is an addiction treatment provider in the New Port Richey, Florida, area that specializes in fentanyl addiction treatment. They have released a comprehensive guide to help anyone who may be questioning a loved one’s fentanyl misuse learn the signs of addiction that may signal a need for change.
Real Recovery Solutions dives into the medical applications of fentanyl, drawing a distinct line between the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved substance and the substance sold in illegal circumstances. When fentanyl is found in hospitals, it is used effectively to relieve pain; however, Real Recovery Solutions specifies that most fentanyl found in illegal circumstances is unregulated and illegally manufactured. Fentanyl has become increasingly popular to combine with other substances, and it has resulted in some finding themselves with a fentanyl addiction without knowing that misuse is happening. Because fentanyl is an entirely man-made substance, its appearance, taste, and smell vary depending on where and who has produced it. This makes fentanyl difficult to identify and to detect when used in conjunction with other substances, and makes it ever more important to learn the signs of fentanyl addiction.
The effects that fentanyl has on the mind and body are more dangerous than those of other opioids, such as heroin. “Fentanyl use disorder causes a variety of behavioral, psychological, and physical changes.” Regarding when these signs may appear, Real Recovery Solutions states: “Sometimes, the signs of fentanyl use disorder appear very suddenly. In other cases, these warning signs develop over time.” It is important to note that some of these signs may never appear, but it is still helpful to know them in the long and short term.
When someone experiences fentanyl use disorder, their central nervous system slows down as the fentanyl binds to the brain's opioid receptors. Like many other substances, fentanyl can lead to prioritizing it over everything else in a person's life. Psychologically, they may experience mood swings, emotional shutdown, and difficulty thinking clearly and effectively. Those with fentanyl use disorder may also feel apathetic toward what is happening around them. This is because dependence and tolerance to fentanyl can develop quickly. As fentanyl replaces the brain's natural euphoria, more of the substance is needed to produce feelings of euphoria and pleasure.
Physically, anyone with fentanyl use disorder may experience a shutdown of bodily functions. Real Recovery informs that this affects many areas of the body, including the Heart, lungs, and other essential organs. These concerns can become increasingly severe over time, and signs can appear as chronic constipation, weight loss, lowered libido, and disrupted sleep schedules. The most concerning effect of fentanyl misuse is overdose, which can occur at any time if intake of fentanyl is more than the body can handle. Signs of fentanyl overdose include slowed or cessation of breathing, pinpointed pupils, and the continued loss of consciousness.
Besides the physical and psychological signs, the behavioral signs of fentanyl addiction can be concerning and noticeable with long-term misuse of fentanyl. Someone with fentanyl misuse disorder may exhibit drug-seeking behavior or look for different avenues to obtain other prescription opioids. This can include pretending to be in pain, doctor-shopping, and a lack of interest in professional substance use treatment. Even if these behavioral patterns occur, Real Recovery insists that these signs be taken seriously. Substance use disorder is a real medical condition, and encouragement of healing can be extremely effective in helping someone with fentanyl addiction find professional treatment.
Real Recovery Solutions is an addiction treatment provider with facilities across Florida's Suncoast. They offer effective treatment for substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions, promoting accountability and responsibility through individual treatment programs rooted in the 12-step principles. Real Recovery bridges the gap between addiction and lasting recovery, providing the kind of support that only those who have walked the path of recovery themselves can offer. For more information, call 813-373-6762.
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For more information about Real Recovery Solutions - New Port Richey, contact the company here:
Real Recovery Solutions - New Port Richey
Patrick Slattery
727-788-3088
patrick@realrecoveryfl.com
5548 La Salle Ct
New Port Richey, FL 34652
