Tampa, FL – Real Recovery Solutions is a local addiction treatment center that recently posted an article warning the public about the dangers of heroin overdose. Real Recovery is one of the largest addiction recovery communities in the state. The rehab center provides treatment options for people at all stages of recovery from heroin use disorder (HUD) as well as other substance use disorders, and co-occurring mental health conditions. They also have sober living facilities, where clients can live for up to a year.

A heroin overdose occurs any time someone consumes more heroin than their body can handle. While an overdose is not always fatal, it often is if someone who is experiencing one does not receive medical attention.

“Death from heroin overdose is most common an hour to three hours after administering it, so if you’re concerned about someone who just took heroin, it’s best to stay with them for a few hours.

There are no real ‘early warning signs’ of a heroin overdose. If you see any signs of a heroin overdose, it’s a good idea to get the person help as soon as possible. Breathing is typically one of the first things heroin impacts during an overdose, so keep an especially close eye on anyone having any trouble breathing,” the article states.

There are three common signs of an opioid overdose, sometimes referred to by professionals as the “opioid overdose triad.” These three symptoms are slowed or stopped breathing, coming in and out of consciousness, and extremely small pupils.

Additional symptoms include blue or ashy skin, confusion, stomach spasms, clammy skin, low pulse or body temperature, and convulsions.

“The first thing to do if you think someone is overdosing on heroin is call 911. Don’t hesitate. Florida has Good Samaritan Laws in place to protect you from legal repercussions for possessing heroin or being with someone who possesses heroin. You won’t get in trouble for seeking help.

Tell the dispatcher that you think someone may have overdosed on heroin. Be prepared to let them know the person’s symptoms, age, and weight if you know it. Tell them how much heroin they took and when they took it, if you know that too. Provide any information they ask for and follow their instructions. Remember, this is a matter of life or death, and saving the person’s life is more important than anything else,” the article continues.

Death is the biggest threat posed by a heroin overdose. This can be prevented with naloxone. The widespread use of this medication has helped to drastically reduce the number of deaths due to opioid overdose.

Even when someone survives an opioid overdose there are several other potential long-term effects. Lack of oxygen is a major concern. This can cause health problems including brain damage, injuries, and infections of the lungs like pneumonia, as well as damage to other organs.

“Anyone is at risk of a heroin overdose, including people taking it for the first time. Heroin overdose doesn’t discriminate. That means it’s never worth trying, whether it’s just once or you develop a heroin use disorder,” the article concludes.

Real Recovery Solutions offers heroin use disorder treatment in the Tampa, FL, area. They also provide their clients with access to additional tools like food stamps, transitional housing, gym memberships, and education opportunities to ensure they’re ready for life in recovery. To learn more, contact them at 813-373-6762.

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