Do you or a loved one suffer from an opioid addiction? Want to make sure the opioid user in your life is as safe as possible, even while using? At Clear Horizons Healthcare, a local drug rehabilitation clinic in Audubon, New Jersey we are proud to offer various addiction services, including those for opioid addicts. Today we’re discussing opioid overdoses and how you can help to prevent them. If you have questions or want to schedule a visit, feel free to contact Clear Horizons Healthcare.

About Opioids

Opioids are medications such as Vicodin, Morphine, Oxycontin along with illegal substances, heroin and opium. Addiction to opioids has grown rapidly in the United States, known as what we call the Opioid Epidemic. Since 2000, overdose deaths related to opioids has skyrocketed. In 2014 alone 14,000 people died due to prescription painkiller overdose. Alcohol mixed with opioids is another huge risk factor for overdosing.

When someone uses too much of an opioid, they experience a diminished level of consciousness, slowed breathing and a lack of oxygen to the brain. Due to this, death is a distinct possibility when it comes to overdosing on an opioid.

Signs Of An Opioid Overdose

There are numerous signs of an opioid overdose, which include:

• Confusion
• Inability to Wake Up
• Delirium
• Acting Drunk
• Vomiting
• Pinpoint Pupils
• Loss of Consciousness
• Irregular/Slow Breathing
• No Breathing
• Cold Skin
• Clammy Skin
• Bluish Skin

If you notice any of the above symptoms, we recommend you contact 911 immediately, it could save someone's life. It is also recommended to have Narcan on hand, this can reverse the effects of an overdose and save their life. Ask your doctor about Narcan and where you can get it for the addict in your life.

Start Opioid Addiction Treatment Nearby Today

Ready to live a more sober lifestyle? Contact Clear Horizons Healthcare today, we would be happy to get you on our schedule.