| Heroin is a very harmful and extremely addictive substance, and there are many people who struggle with an addiction to this drug. Heroin addicts may hide their addiction from friends and family members, either out of shame or in an effort to avoid interference with their drug abuse. Sometimes, it takes investigative work on the part of a caring loved one to find out if someone is addicted so that they can persuade them to attend heroin rehab in St. Louis. If you fear that someone you care about may be addicted to heroin, look for the following signs of addiction. Drug ParaphernaliaHeroin can be ingested by smoking, snorting, or injecting it directly into the veins. Depending on which form of the drug your loved one is using, you may find various drug paraphernalia or drug remnants in their place of residence. Paraphernalia may include burnt spoons, baggies containing some drug residue, glass pipes, syringes, and/or rubber tubing. You may also find drug residue on table surfaces or other flat surfaces throughout their place of residence. Depending on the form of heroin they use, the residue can be powdery with a tan or white coloring, or it can be a dark, sticky residue; either one is cause for concern. If your loved one is hiding their addiction, this paraphernalia may not be easily found. You may feel like you are invading their privacy, but if it is in the best interests of their health, then you should search through dresser drawers, in nightstands, under mattresses, and in other hiding places throughout their place of residence. Unusual AppearanceA heroin addiction will often show itself in the addict's physical appearance as well. Look for the following physical signs of an addiction:  Small pupilsEyes that look bloodshot or "tired"A strong tendency to nodding off throughout the dayVery slow breathingFlushed skinRunny nose Some of these physical signs will vary depending on the form of heroine that the person is using. For example, a runny nose is most often associated with heroin addicts who are snorting a powdered form of heroin to get high. If you notice many of these physical symptoms consistently, it is worth investigating the situation further. Strange BehaviorsAddicts often exhibit similar behaviors that can act as a sign of their heroin addiction. As their addiction progresses, they'll become more likely to neglect personal hygiene and grooming. They may also forget to eat or seem disinterested in eating. This can lead to rapid weight loss, so if you notice your loved one losing weight quickly and without reason, start looking for other signs of addiction. You may also notice slightly slurred speech. If they inject heroin, they may wear long sleeves to cover track marks in their arms. They will also scratch at their arms more frequently than is normal, as the injection sites on their skin can often cause irritation. Health ComplaintsHeroin has a serious impact on the human body and will lead to major health issues. In the long run, your loved one can suffer lung damage, kidney failure, heart problems, and limited brain function. However, there are some health problems that will appear more quickly, which may allow you to recognize the signs of addiction and seek help for your loved one. These common health complaints include vomiting, nausea, and constipation. Your loved one may not even know that heroin is the cause of their nausea and constipation, so if they complain to you about these health issues frequently, or if you notice frequent vomiting, you may want to seek help. The sooner you can get your loved one into heroin rehab in St. Louis, the better off they will be, so keep an eye out for these signs and intervene as soon as you can.   
		
	
			 
		
			
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