Grasslands News
With opioids like Vicodin becoming more widely available in the U.S., it’s possible some of your loved ones and friends may fall victim to addiction and abuse of the drug. Vicodin contains the opioids hydrocodone and acetaminophen, potent opioids that have certain effects on the brain that make addiction possible. And the problem is so serious in the country with surveys showing 2.3% of the U.S. population abusing the drug in 2017. To know if your loved one is at risk for Vicodin Addiction, there are certain warning signs and symptoms you should look out for. The Vicodin side effects are usually physical, behavioral, and psychological.
Breathing Difficulties
One common physical sign with many addicts is frequent breathing problems, which also slows the heart rate and poses a risk for inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain and vital organs in the body. This can lead to drowsiness and, lethargy, and weakness.
Episodes of Unconsciousness
If you have a loved one who has been prescribed Vicodin as pain medication and you start to notice him/her experiencing occasional episodes of unconsciousness, you should be alarmed. Most people who are addicted to opiates like Vicodin experience these episodes due to breathing difficulties that prevent adequate oxygen from reaching the brain.
Changes in Behavioral Patterns
Some of the strong behavioral signs you should look out for in someone you suspect could be addicted to Vicodin are secretive behavior, financial problems, and poor performance at work. Addiction to opiates like Vicodin and other drugs usually takes a toll on the person’s physical and mental wellness, resulting in changes in a person’s normal behavior.
Determined Efforts to Obtain Vicodin
In case you notice that someone close to you has started going extra lengths to obtain Vicodin, it should be a red flag. Check out if the person you’re concerned about has started lying, manipulating or stealing just to obtain the prescription. And check out for tricks like attempting to purchase Vicodin from the dark web or doctor shopping for prescriptions.
Social Warning Signs
The same way addiction to Vicodin manifests itself in behavioral symptoms is the same way the addiction manifests itself in social signs. For instance, you may have noticed that your loved one probably has a problem and tried to raise the issue about Vicodin use. If you notice the person becoming too defensive, you should be alarmed.
Troubles in Family Relationships
The other social sign that should warn you that someone you care about might be having a problem with Vicodin addiction is problems with family relationships. If you start to realize that the person is getting into frequent conflicts and quarrels with people who are close to him/her, it’s a good sign that there might be a problem.
Frequent Anxiety or Depression
People who are addicted to Vicodin and other opiates often experience anxiety. The anxiety can gradually worsen into depression. Some early signs of anxiety include unpredictable mood swings, episodes of paranoia, and social isolation.
Vicodin addiction can manifest itself in various physical, behavioral, and emotional or social symptoms. If you’re concerned about someone close to you, check out for any changes or problems in the person’s physical activities, emotional status, and behavioral responses. If you notice drastic anomalies, the high chances are that your loved one needs help.
