Opioid overdose deaths have been steadily increasing for years, and the opioid epidemic continues to grow.
In 2017, opioids including heroin, prescription painkillers, and fentanyl caused over 60,000 overdose deaths nationwide.1 Sadly, overdose deaths are continuing to rise, and the opioid epidemic statistics are frightening. The latest statistic shows that the US life expectancy rate has dropped due to several factors, including opioid overdoses as one of the main causes of this decrease in average life expectancy.2
Why Are Opioid Overdoses So Dangerous?
Any drug overdose is dangerous, but opioid overdoses are especially frightening. When an individual struggling with opioid addiction overdoses, there are life-threatening complications. Symptoms of opioid overdose include:
- Shallow breathing
- Slowed movement
- Confusion
- Small pupils
- Loss of consciousness
- Lack of alertness
- Blue skin or lips due to circulation issues
When an opioid overdose occurs, things can deteriorate quickly and can turn deadly within minutes. Drugs such as fentanyl have made overdoses even deadlier. In fact, between 2016 and 2017, opioid overdoses involving synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and tramadol increased by 45%.3
Treating Opioid Addiction
If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction, it is time to get help. At Banyan Detox Stuart, we offer medically monitored detox programs, including medical support for opioid detox. Medical support for the opioid detox process allows for management of opiate withdrawal symptoms, supporting optimal patient comfort.
Whether you are struggling with heroin, painkillers, or other opioid drugs, safe detox is the first step in successful sobriety. Call 888-280-4763 to learn how we can help.
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