Heroin in Detroit Reaches New Heights
According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, deaths from drug overdoses have reached record levels. Heroin overdoses in Michigan have increased by almost five times from 46 in 2002 to 225 in 2013, and Wayne County accounted for 183 of the latter deaths. This growth correlates with a national trend of increasing heroin use and overdoses, and this is common among higher-income groups, people with private insurance and women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Why is it so Addictive?
Heroin is one of the most addictive drugs in existence. In addition, people who are dependent on opioid painkillers like OxyContin and Vicodin are 40 times more likely to become addicted to it. Contrary to common belief, addiction isn't simply a voluntary hankering after the rush that drugs bring. When you try to quit heroin, you are bombarded with deep, inescapable cravings.
Heroin acts on a specific part of the brain called the limbic system, an area is that is also known as the brain's reward center. The drug forces it to release massive quantities of the neurotransmitter dopamine to produce the desired rush. Unfortunately, dopamine is also capable of reprogramming the brain to create deep obsessions.
Health Effects of Use
Heroin can be ingested in a number of ways: orally, snorting or injecting.
In the short term, users experience a rush of euphoria accompanied by depressed cardiac and respiratory function, overall numbness and a clouded thought process. Specific effects tend to show up with specific types of administration, as well. Snorting can result in damage to nasal tissue or the nasal passage.
The consequences of heroin use can be horrific in the long-term. From addiction and constant cravings to cardiovascular damage, abscesses, dental damage, liver disease and kidney disease, heroin use can destroy the user's health.
Drug rehabilitation is available to all addicts who need help.If you find yourself addicted to this and other harmful opiates, Detroit drug rehab centers can help you find one of many facilities available. Call today at (877) 804-1531, or attend a Metro Detroit Region Narcotics Anonymous meeting (http://www.michigan-na.org/metro_detroit_region/). You don't have to struggle any longer wit dependency.