HEROIN -- The photo above show some of the evidence collected by local law enforcement officers in connection with the use and sale of heroin, an area which has seen a dramatic increase over the past year. The top photo shows cash and various drug paraphernalia including syringes and a burned spoon which was seized in an arrest. The bottom picture is that of a look-a-like battery which features a screw-off top concealing a bag of heroin. |
Watching for heroin signs Nov. 13, 2009 Just as in other forms of drug abuse, there are various symptoms or signs which combined may suggest heroin use or addiction.
“Withdrawal symptoms usually occur within 48 to 72 hours of use,” Antigo Police Chief Eric Roller said, advising that among the most common are shaking, vomiting or diarrhea.
He stressed that simple awareness followed by education was the best precaution, particularly for parents worried about their children.
“Many of the symptoms are similar to flu-like illnesses but if parents see their child getting sick the Monday after every weekend followed by a change in personality and behavior, there may be some greater issue at work,” Roller said.
“People need to know that the drug is here and it is a problem,” he added.
According to the Heroin Abuse Foundation, potential warning signs of heroin use include:
—Runny nose, shaking, vomiting and diarrhea.
—Eyes appear “lost” or have a far-away look.
—Change in performance, whether academic, employment or otherwise.
—Unkempt appearance or changes in hygiene.
—Apathy and/or lethargy.
—Excessive sleep.
—Change in friends or withdrawal from usual friends, activities or interests.
—Increased lying and deception.
—Tendency toward reckless behavior.
—Missing cash or valuables or problems involving stealing or incessant borrowing of money.
—Possession of unexplained valuables.
—Possession of drug paraphernalia including syringes.
—Needle marks on arms or legs.
—Hostility toward others.
—Difficulty in maintaining employment.
An actual overdose is far more dangerous and at times, can lead to death.
Call 911 immediately if seeing these warning signs:
—Slow, shallow or difficult breathing.
—Narrowing of pupils, which are sometimes called “pinpoint pupils.”
—Discoloring of tongue and dry mouth.
—Weakening pulse and a drop in blood pressure.
—Lips or fingernails tinged with blue.
—Stomach or muscle spasms.
—Disorientation, even to the point of delirium.
—Loss of consciousness.
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