Breaking free from addiction is a monumental achievement, but it can also come with unexpected health implications.
Whether you’re overcoming substance use, behavioral dependencies, or other forms of addiction, understanding these potential health issues is crucial for a successful recovery.
As per American Addiction Centers, when someone dependent on a substance suddenly stops taking it, withdrawal symptoms are a common response. This happens because the body is trying to adjust to the sudden drop in the substance’s presence, leading to temporary imbalances in brain chemistry. As the body works to regain its normal state, it can cause noticeable mental and physical health issues.
In this article, we will explore how quitting different types of addiction can impact your health, offering insights into the challenges that might arise.
Health Effects of Quitting Alcohol Addiction
NCSolutions states that in 2024, more Americans are choosing to cut back on drinking, with 41% saying they’re trying to reduce their alcohol consumption. This marks a 7% increase from 2023, showing a growing trend toward mindful drinking.
Gen Z is leading the way, with 61% planning to drink less this year, up from just 40% in 2023. Millennials are also following suit, with nearly half (49%) aiming to cut back, a 26% jump from the year before.
Quitting alcohol addiction often leads to a range of health effects, both positive and challenging. In the short term, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, nausea, and anxiety. These symptoms can be intense but are typically managed with medical supervision.
Over the long term, recovering alcoholics might face issues like nutritional deficiencies and liver damage as the body adjusts to sobriety. The liver, which often bears the brunt of excessive drinking, may start to heal, but it can take time. Additionally, individuals may encounter psychological challenges, including mood swings and sleep disturbances, as their brain chemistry stabilizes.
Health Implications of Quitting Opioid Addiction
CDC notes that in 2022, nearly 9 million Americans reported misusing prescription opioids. Between 1999 and 2022, prescription opioid overdoses claimed nearly 310,000 lives in the United States. These numbers highlight the ongoing crisis of opioid misuse and its devastating impact on communities across the country.
Opioid addiction, involving drugs like heroin and prescription painkillers, presents unique health challenges when quitting. The withdrawal process can be particularly severe, with symptoms ranging from intense cravings and muscle pain to gastrointestinal issues and insomnia. During withdrawal, the body’s dependency on opioids creates a painful and challenging transition period.
Long-term recovery might involve dealing with post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which includes symptoms like anxiety, depression, and persistent cravings. Additionally, former opioid users might face issues related to chronic pain management and mental health stabilization as they navigate their recovery journey.
Moreover, many individuals transitioning off opioids are prescribed Suboxone, a medication designed to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. While Suboxone can be effective, it also has its drawbacks. One issue is that it may lead to dental problems, such as dry mouth and tooth decay, due to its effects on saliva production.
Legal Action Against Suboxone
According to TorHoerman Law, the use of Suboxone has prompted legal discussions in addition to these health concerns. Some patients have experienced severe dental issues as a side effect, leading to lawsuits against manufacturers. These legal actions argue that the risks associated with Suboxone, particularly the impact on dental health, were not adequately communicated to users.
Drugwatch highlights that as of August 2024, over 670 lawsuits related to Suboxone-induced tooth decay are currently consolidated in multidistrict litigation in Ohio. No court-approved settlements or trial dates have been announced yet for these dental-related cases. Additionally, there’s a separate antitrust MDL for the Suboxone lawsuit that is still pending.
Health Challenges After Stopping Nicotine Use
Quitting nicotine, whether from smoking or other tobacco products, leads to various health effects. People may initially experience signs of withdrawal, including headaches, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Many people have an increase in hunger while their bodies adjust, which may result in weight gain.
Over time, the respiratory system begins to heal, improving lung function and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like COPD. However, managing the psychological dependence on nicotine can be challenging, requiring support and coping strategies. Adopting healthier habits and seeking professional guidance can help mitigate these effects and support a successful transition to a nicotine-free life.
FAQs
What problems can alcohol addiction cause?
Alcohol addiction can lead to liver damage, heart disease, and weakened immune function. It also increases the risk of mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Over time, alcohol use can strain relationships and impact daily functioning, making it a serious issue that affects both physical and emotional well-being.
What is the basic concept of opioid withdrawal?
When someone dependent on opioids abruptly cuts back or quits using them, it is known as opioid withdrawal. The body, accustomed to the drug, struggles to maintain balance, leading to physical and psychological symptoms. These symptoms might range from minor discomfort to severe agony, depending on the degree of dependence.
Does nicotine use cause cancer?
Yes, nicotine use, particularly through smoking, is strongly linked to cancer, especially lung cancer. While nicotine itself isn’t the primary carcinogen, it promotes addiction to tobacco products, which contain harmful chemicals that cause cancer. Long-term use of nicotine products can significantly increase cancer risk, including other forms like throat and mouth cancer.
Quitting addiction is a challenging journey that comes with various health implications. While the challenges might be difficult, they are often manageable with the correct assistance and treatment.
Knowing what to expect can help those considering quitting make informed decisions and get the guidance they need. Individuals can move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life by focusing on both the physical and mental aspects of recovery.