Signs Of Heroin Use

● Physical Symptoms Of Heroin Use

● Behavioral Signs Of Heroin Use

● Heroin Paraphernalia

● Treatment For Heroin Abuse

Many physical and behavioral changes in an individual can indicate heroin use, as well as the presence of certain types of paraphernalia used to consume the drug. A better understanding of these signs can help you identify heroin addiction, and hopefully, find a way to help.

Physical Symptoms

The most common physical sign of heroin use is thought to be “track marks,” or small puncture wounds on the skin. The injection site may become infected from multiple pokes, leading to scars. Track marks are most commonly observed on the arms and inside of the elbows. Long sleeves are often worn (even in warm weather) to hide heroin use. Here are a few additional signs of heroin use, both during and after consumption:

Constricted pupils

Labored breathing or movements

Dry mouth

Weakened immune system

Constipation, dehydration, itching, and vomiting

Kidney and bladder inflammation

Heroin can be smoked, or snorted, as well. As with most smoked and snorted substances, respiratory troubles can become more apparent when the user is abusing heroin. You may notice chronic coughing, wheezing, or a bloody nose. The user may become easily winded, or experience more frequent respiratory infections as a result of heroin use.

Behavioral Indicators Of Heroin Use

Sudden financial struggle can indicate heroin use early on. Heroin addiction can cost as much as $200 per day to maintain. The user may borrow money from friends and family, or sell belongings to support the addiction. Other behavioral issues are common in heroin abuse, most frequently:

Hyper alertness, followed by sudden drowsiness or “nodding off”

Confusion, delirium, or hallucinations

Defensive when asked of whereabouts

Impulsive behavior

Poor hygiene

Loss of job, trouble with authorities, or lacking grades

Overall distraction

Heroin use can also lead to distance with family and friends, or an unexplained disappearance for days or weeks at a time. This is often due to heavier consumption, or guilt in the user. If a loved one is missing, it may be important to intervene to ensure the safety of the user.

Heroin Paraphernalia

Heroin can be purchased as an off-white to dark brown powder, or in a sticky, tar-like form. It is often distributed in a small plastic bag. When heated, heroin may let off a faint vinegar smell. Some physical items that indicate heroin consumption include:

Burnt spoons or aluminum foil

Needles and syringes

Belts, bands, or rope to use as a tourniquet for injection

Tubing, rolled aluminum foil, or glass bulb with glass tube is used for smoking heroin

Razor blades, rolled paper, and straws are used to prepare heroin for snorting

Users may refer to heroin as “Horse,” “Dragon,” “H,” “White (White Lady, China White),” “Chiba (or Chiva),” or “Scag.” A few other nicknames for the substance may be mentioned, so pay attention to conversations that seem to refer to code words.

Treatment For Heroin Addiction

Heroin is a highly addictive drug. Many users tend to relapse, even after achieving sobriety for a long time. Often, the addict will encounter a difficult life change, and turn to heroin for relief. Continuing therapy and treatment can aid in coping with the temptation, and offer alternative methods to cope. Many addicts fear treatment, because withdrawal symptoms are so intense. Treatment facilities are available to ease the transition into sobriety with the use of Methadone and Suboxone/Subutex. These substances are used to aid in recovery, and lessen the effects of withdrawal.