Like all opioids, the prescription medication fentanyl is capable of triggering addiction. However, fentanyl is far more powerful than other opioids such as heroin and oxycodone. With such a dramatic increase in potency comes heightened addiction risks. It also means that abuse of the medication can easily lead to an overdose. If you’re affected by addiction, a fentanyl treatment program provides essential support for your recovery. People addicted to fentanyl typically experience some notable symptoms. They also tend to show certain outward signs of what’s happening to them.
The rate of fentanyl overdoses is running rampant across the country. If you or a loved one is struggling with a fentanyl addiction, it is critical to find help now. Northpoint Colorado can help break the cycle of addiction and be a guide toward a happier, healthier future. Call 888.231.1281 today to learn more.
Fentanyl Addiction Symptoms
Symptoms are the internal manifestations of physical and mental health problems. Their effects on you can range from mild to severe. However, these effects are detectable only by you. They don’t produce indicators that an outside observer can pick up on. A range of fentanyl addiction symptoms is possible. These symptoms include things such as:
- Having intense cravings for more fentanyl when you’re not actively using it
- Repeatedly using more of the medication than you intended to
- Keeping up a level of use that you know is causing you significant harm
- Not being able to quit using fentanyl after multiple attempts
You may also experience rising tolerance to fentanyl. Tolerance means you need to take more and more of it to feel the medication’s effects.
Fentanyl Addiction Signs
Signs of fentanyl addiction are detectable by other people. Potential signs of fentanyl addiction include:
- Abandoning once-favored activities so you can use more fentanyl
- Creating a routine focused on obtaining, using, and recovering from fentanyl
- Going into withdrawal if you stop taking fentanyl or quickly reduce your use
Fentanyl withdrawal can have mental effects that include anxiousness and agitation. It can also have a wide range of physical effects. Potential issues here include nausea and vomiting, achy muscles, diarrhea, and cramps in your abdomen. They also include insomnia, dilated pupils and increased output of tears, sweat, and mucus.
Signs of Fentanyl Addiction – Overdose
You can overdose on the medication whether or not you’re addicted to fentanyl. An overdose occurs when your system contains enough of a given substance to interfere with your normal function seriously. All opioids are capable of producing this level of disruption. Due to fentanyl’s extreme potency, the risk of overdose is exceptionally high.
Possible signs of a fentanyl overdose include breathing difficulties or a complete lack of breathing. An affected person may also go limp or lose consciousness. In addition, people overdosing on the medication may have unusually pale or clammy skin. They may also have bluish lips or fingernail beds.
Fentanyl Addiction Signs and Symptoms – Official Diagnosis
Doctors look for specific criteria when diagnosing fentanyl addiction. They also look for indicators of damaging, non-addicted fentanyl abuse. You only need to have two signs or symptoms to receive a diagnosis. That’s true whether you’re affected by addiction, abuse, or a combination.
Learn More About Fentanyl Addiction Symptoms and Signs at Northpoint Colorado
Concerned you or someone you know may be addicted to fentanyl? Talk to the specialists at Northpoint Colorado. We’ll provide you with more details on symptoms that you can spot. We also have the expertise required for an official diagnosis.
Need treatment for fentanyl-related problems? Northpoint Colorado offers comprehensive, customized recovery plans. These plans also support your recovery from other kinds of opioid issues. No matter your situation, you’ll find options that meet your needs. For more information, call us today at 888.231.1281. Or, if you prefer, you can fill out our online contact form.