Heroin By: Dorothy Burciaga

Long Term Effects Repeated heroin use changes the physical structure and physiology of the brain. It creates long-term imbalances in neuronal and hormonal systems that are not easily reversed. Heroin also produces profound degrees of tolerance and physical dependence. The risks of health complications, diseases, infections, and overdose make long-term heroin use one of the most perilous drugs. Collapsed veins Infection of the heart lining and valves Abscesses Liver disease

Short term effects They usually appear immediately after the drug is used. Heroin users report an immediate feeling of euphoria, often describes as a “rush” and this can be accompanied by a warm flushing of the skin, a dry mouth, heavy limbs, and severe itching. The individual will alternate between wakefulness and feeling drowsy. Heroin depresses the central nervous system which can result in the function of the body becoming clouded; this can mean slurred speech, constricted pupils, droopy eyelids, impaired night vision, vomiting, and constipation.

Regional statistics The number of heroin and other opioid related overdose deaths, tracked by the Lucas County Coroner’s Office representing 19 counties in Ohio and two counties in Southeastern Michigan, has increased from 8 in 2010 to 215 in 2015.

National statistics Opiates, mainly heroin, account for 18% of the admissions for drug and alcohol treatment in the US.

Forms of addiction Physical Side effects Mental side effects Most heroin addicts don’t really notice the side effects until they run out of the drug and cannot get anymore. Their body then goes into withdrawal. It sends them into a nasty, flu-like state of misery that can be fixed by feeding more heroin into the body. It can also cause a number of changes in the physical AND physiological structure of the brain. If trying to stop they will experience withdrawal symptoms. Dysphoria (a combination of anxiety, depression, and feeling restless.) Insomnia

Legal issues for teens **#’s in percent's** Any juvenile who knowingly and without legal justification possesses a controlled or illegal substance can be charged with juvenile drug possession. Teens could have to do drug counseling, probation, diversion, or detention. Detention can involve home confinement, placement with a foster family or guardian, placement with a juvenile home, or in a juvenile detention center.

Addiction help Treatment usually begins with medically assisted detoxification and includes pharmacological treatments. Holistic heroin addiction treatment plans, also involve addiction counseling, cognitive- behavioral therapy, drug rehab and heroin support groups.

Street name H Dope Bags White Horse Dog Food Junk Big H Smack Skag Skunk Brown Sugar Horse China White Black tar

Heroin comes from the poppy plant. Other facts Heroin comes from the poppy plant. Heroin can be taken 3 ways… Snorting, injecting, and smoking.

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