Opiate addictions are powerful conditions that produce significant withdrawal symptoms. However, as we tell clients at our opiate detox in Sacramento. There are some simple and effective steps you can take to help manage the unpleasant side effects as you work with your counselor and medical team to free yourself from an opioid addiction.
Soothing the Symptoms of Opiate Detox
Here are some things you can do to help minimize your discomfort as you eliminate opioids from your system:
- Eat healthy. What you eat can affect how you feel as you go through detox. Opioid addiction may cause deficiencies in magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which can increase muscle pain, muscle spasms, and restless leg syndrome. Eating healthy meals with foods high in these minerals (bananas are full of potassium, for example) can be very helpful. You might also consider taking a multivitamin to help offset any vitamin deficiencies. Always talk with your counselor or healthcare provider before modifying your diet.
- Stay hydrated. Opiate withdrawal can cause sweating and diarrhea, both of which can lead to dehydration and associated discomfort. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can ensure your body has enough fluid. Sports drinks may be especially effective at replacing the electrolytes you may be lacking.
Take hot baths. Soaking in a tub is an easy way to reduce muscle aches and pains, and muscle tension. Adding epsom salts to the water can increase the soothing effect of the water. Note that if you are suffering through a fever episode, hot baths should be avoided.
- Use distractions. The more you think about your opiate withdrawal symptoms, the more intense they are likely to feel. Before starting detox, have a number of helpful distractions in mind. Watching a movie or TV show, reading a good book, playing games, and similar activities can be very helpful. Having a laugh is especially beneficial, as it not only takes your mind off your situation but also causes the release of endorphins that can ease withdrawal symptoms.
- Use over-the-counter treatments as directed. With your doctor’s approval, you can use non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), anti-nausea medications, topical analgesics, sleep supplements like melatonin, etc. to offset some of your symptoms.
You Can Make it Through Opioid Withdrawal!
Nobody who has been through opiate detox will describe it as a pleasant experience. That said, it is absolutely worth the temporary pain and discomfort you will experience. And, using the tips above, those side effects can be managed. Learn about our effective opiate detox in Sacramento by calling (800) 205-6107 today.
Content reviewed by Vicky Magobet, PMHNP-BC, on August 7th, 2017.
Vicky is a board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She began her nursing career in healthcare by working in the intensive care unit, and then an inpatient psychiatric hospital. After realizing the mental health needs of both the patients and the families she served, she became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Throughout her experience working with clients, she has developed a passion for those with dual diagnoses and specializes in helping individuals recognize the issues driving their substance use. This recognition has been crucial to the individual’s success in treatment. Vicky opened Diamond House Detox so that she can address these issues early on in a therapeutic environment to allow clients to transition to the next level in their recovery.
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