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Symptoms of Opiate Withdrawals

Some people use opiates to cope with personal problems. The opiate provides a quick sense of well being, euphoria and calm, but some people become addicted to narcotics such as morphine, heroin and codeine. The symptoms of opiate withdrawal occur six to 24 hours after the person stops taking the drug or when opiate intake is drastically reduced. Withdrawal symptoms from opiates are often severe.

  1. Flu-Like Symptoms

    • Withdrawal can feel as though you have come down with a severe case of the flu. You might feel chilled and have goose bumps. It can seem as though you can't warm up. Or you might feel too hot and sweat continuously. You might have body aches and weakness. Your eyes and nose might water constantly. Bouts of sneezing can also occur. These symptoms can be so uncomfortable that some addicts relapse and resume using drugs.

    Withdrawal and Restless Legs

    • Your legs might ache as you go through withdrawal stages. This pain has been described as bone deep and intense. Your legs might feel restless. You might have the urge to constantly kick or move your legs. Walking short distances can make your legs feel heavy and worsen pain. You can also have pain in the shoulders, other joints and hips as you abstain from opiates. Restless legs make sleeping difficult.

    Withdrawal and the Digestive System

    • During withdrawal, you might not eat at all because of an upset stomach. It is common to have a poor appetite. The thought of food might make you nauseous. Vomiting is common. It's important to stay hydrated and nourished as your body heals. You might have been constantly constipated during your addiction because opiates make your intestinal tract sluggish. The opposite occurs when you are going through withdrawal. You might have bouts of abdominal cramping and severe diarrhea.

    Sleeping Problems

    • Your sleeping patterns are affected during withdrawal. You might have problems falling asleep or staying asleep. It's common to wake up as often as eight times during the night. Deep sleep might be impossible. Some recovering addicts sleep excessively. You might also have vivid nightmares that are very disturbing. Sleeping problems usually lessen in severity within a week. Some people find that it can help to establish a sleeping routine that includes a relaxing bubble bath, a cup of hot tea and meditation before bed.

    Mental Health

    • Going through withdrawal can make you anxious and depressed. When you abuse opiates, your body stops producing endorphins. Endorphins are neurotransmitters in the brain that induce pleasurable feelings and euphoria. It can take time for your body to create endorphins. Depending on the severity of addiction, depression can last for months or years . You might also have repetitive thoughts that are intrusive and disturbing. There is an increased risk for self-destructive behavior during withdrawal.

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