Heroin addiction can feel overwhelming. For many people, one of the biggest roadblocks to recovery is withdrawal. The physical and emotional symptoms can be difficult to endure alone, and without support, relapse is common. But with professional care, it’s possible to navigate detox safely and build a strong foundation for healing.
At Woodland Recovery Center in Southaven, Mississippi, we provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment for heroin addiction. Our heroin detox programs are designed to support each individual through every phase of withdrawal and recovery, helping them reclaim their health and hope for the future.
What are the common withdrawal symptoms of heroin?
Everyone’s experience with withdrawal is different. Symptoms can depend on the length and intensity of heroin use, your overall health, and co-occurring conditions. However, there are several hallmark symptoms most people experience, along with a general timeline.
Top five hallmark symptoms and timelines
- Gastrointestinal distress (12 to 24 hours): Nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea are often among the first signs.
- Mood changes (12 to 48 hours): Irritability, anxiety, and agitation often appear early and can last for several days.
- Sleep problems (12 to 72 hours): Insomnia and restlessness, often paired with yawning, are common as the brain adjusts.
- Sweating and chills (one to three days): By day two, many people experience fever, shaking, and profuse sweating.
- Aches and pains (24 to 72 hours): Muscle and joint pain may intensify, especially in individuals who have used heroin long-term.
Additional symptoms may include:
- Dilated pupils
- Runny nose and tearing
- Goosebumps
- Excessive yawning
- Cravings that peak early and may continue during recovery
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) vs. acute withdrawal
While most symptoms fade within a week, some people experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome. Unlike acute withdrawal, which includes physical symptoms, PAWS consists of longer-lasting psychological effects like:
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Low motivation
- Difficulty concentrating
Because of these long-lasting symptoms, ongoing support is crucial for people in recovery. This includes therapy, support groups, and healthy coping mechanisms to manage cravings and mood swings.
Recognizing the differences: Home remedies vs. medical management
Although some attempt to detox at home, doing so can be risky. Over-the-counter medications may ease mild symptoms, but they can’t address the full range of withdrawal complications. In contrast, medical heroin detox provides:
- 24/7 monitoring
- Access to medications for pain, nausea, and sleep
- Immediate medical attention if complications arise
- A much lower risk of relapse
Safety risks requiring inpatient detox include:
- Pre-existing heart or respiratory issues
- Severe anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts
- History of seizures
- High levels of heroin use
Woodland Recovery Center evaluates each person’s medical and mental health to determine the most effective detox plan.
Our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) options
Medication-assisted treatment is a proven approach to reducing withdrawal symptoms and lowering relapse risk. Our MAT options may include:
- Buprenorphine (Subutex/Suboxone): Reduces cravings and withdrawal without producing a high.
- Methadone: A longer-acting opioid that helps stabilize individuals and gradually taper them off.
- Naltrexone: Used after detox to block the effects of opioids and prevent relapse.
These medications are used under close supervision as part of a broader, personalized treatment plan.
Why is it important to seek professional help with heroin withdrawal symptoms?
Trying to detox from heroin alone is not only painful but potentially dangerous. Professional treatment provides:
- Safety: Trained medical staff can manage symptoms and respond to emergencies.
- Medication management: Appropriate use of FDA-approved medications makes detox more comfortable.
- Emotional support: Therapists and counselors offer guidance through cravings, anxiety, and depression.
- Relapse prevention: Structured support dramatically lowers the risk of returning to use.
- A complete care plan: Detox is just the first step—our team helps you transition into long-term treatment.
The path to recovery begins with a safe and supportive detox process, which we strive to provide at Woodland Recovery Center.
Connecting heroin detox to lasting recovery
Detox alone is not enough. Once the physical symptoms subside, the emotional and behavioral aspects of addiction must be addressed. Our heroin addiction treatment programs offer:
- Individual and group therapy
- Trauma-informed care
- Family counseling
- Skills-building workshops
- Relapse prevention planning
- Step-down levels of care
Our team will work with you to create a recovery plan that meets your unique needs, so you not only stop using heroin but start living fully.
Call Woodland Recovery Center to start your recovery with our addiction treatment programs
Our addiction treatment programs help people get through withdrawal safely and transition into treatment with strength and support. Our experienced team offers medications to ease cravings and discomfort, emotional care to guide you through tough moments, and the structure to keep you focused on healing.
We offer all levels of care, from inpatient detox to outpatient treatment and aftercare planning. Whether you’re taking the first step or starting again, we’re here for you. Call us today at 662.222.2989 or contact us online to begin heroin detox and addiction treatment at our Southaven, Mississippi treatment center.
