Recognizing Drug Overdose Symptoms: Save a Life

Overdoses of drugs are more common than you might realize. Whether it’s unintentional or intentional, recognizing the signs of drug overdose early can be a lifesaver. If you or someone you care about has a drug problem, it’s good to know these signs.

What Is a Drug Overdose?

Drug overdose is when an individual consumes more of a drug than the body can process. It can be prescription medication that people consume to relieve pain, over-the-counter medicines, or illicit drugs. Overdoses are dangerous and need to be treated very quickly to save a life.

Common Causes of Overdose

1. Taking too much medication, like prescription opioids including oxycodone
2. Mixing alcohol or drugs
3. Using drugs again after going without them
4. Mental health emergencies

Drug Overdose Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms and signs of overdose depend on the drug. The following are typical signs and symptoms of an overdose:

1. Loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness
2. Shallow or slow breathing
3. Seizures
4. Vomiting or gurgling sounds
5. Irregular or slow pulse
6. Blue or bluish discoloration of lips and fingers
7. Extremely small or large pupils
8. Chest pain or tightness

Specific Overdose Symptoms by Drug Type

Opioids (Heroin, Prescription Painkillers)

1. No or very slow breathing
2. Pinpoint pupils
3. Cold, clammy extremities

Stimulants (Cocaine, Methamphetamines)

1. Increased heart rate
2. High blood pressure
3. Overheating (high body temperature)
4. Seizures

Depressants (Benzodiazepines, Alcohol)

1. Excessive somnolence
2. Confusion
3. Slurred speech

What to Do if You Suspect a Drug Overdose

If you experience any of the following signs of an overdose:

1. Call 911 immediately.
2. Keep the person overdosing company.
3. Try to keep them breathing and conscious.
4. Roll them onto their side to prevent them from choking.
5. Use mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing if you are trained in doing so.
6. Administer naloxone if it’s an opioid overdose and you have it available. Naloxone is a medication that reverses the effects of opioids.

Why Immediate Action is So Important

Overdose on drugs symptoms can worsen quickly. Every minute counts. Seeking help immediately can mean the difference between life and death.

Long-Term Risks of Overdose

Even if someone survives an overdose, there are long-term consequences, which include the following.

1. Brain injury due to a lack of oxygen
2. Heart or lung trauma
3. Development of substance use disorder

Treatment Options for Drug Overdose Symptoms

After emergency treatment, follow-up care is required to prevent a repeated overdose.

Medical Detox

Medical detox allows the body to get rid of the drugs in a safe and comfortable setting. The medical professionals monitor your vital signs and control withdrawal symptoms.

Behavioral Therapies

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
2. Group therapy
3. Family therapy
4. Stress relief techniques

Medication-Assisted Treatment

For alcohol dependence or opioid use disorder, medications like buprenorphine or methadone can reduce withdrawals and also cravings.

Support Systems

1. Peer support groups
2. Outpatient programs
3. Relapse prevention planning

Where in Spokane Valley, Washington Can You Find Treatment for Drug Overdose Symptoms?

We Level Up Washington offers treatment to those with symptoms of drug overdose in Spokane Valley. To be clear, if you or a loved one is currently experiencing a drug overdose, call 911 for immediate medical attention. An overdose is a medical emergency. Afterwards, our treatment can help with:

1. Medical detox
2. Behavioral therapies
3. Long-term recovery programs

Treatment Options Near Spokane Valley, WA

We Level Up Washington also offers services to nearby areas including:

1. Liberty Lake, WA
2. Spokane, WA
3. Coeur d’Alene, ID

We support with personalized care plans that treat both substance use disorder and mental illness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts: Help Is Available

Assistance is at hand. Identifying drug overdose signs and responding quickly can be life-saving. If you or your loved one uses drugs, you can be sure help is closer than you think.

We Level Up Washington provides expert, caring treatment to lead you or your loved one to a safer, healthier life. Don’t delay—call us today and begin the journey to recovery.

Summary

Call today to speak with our team and learn more about our programs. We Level Up Washington: (509) 348-4077. Your next step starts here.