What Happens if You Overdose?

A drug overdose, particularly an opioid overdose, can lead to life-threatening conditions. This is why it’s important to recognize what happens if you overdose on drugs. But what exactly happens if you overdose? This article explores the signs and symptoms of a drug overdose, its long-term effects, and what to do during such circumstances.

NUMA Recovery Centers is a detox and rehab center based in Los Angeles that provides comprehensive treatment to individuals struggling with substance use or opioid addiction. Our dedicated team of professionals offers various therapy modalities designed to help individuals overcome addiction and prevent relapse. Contact NUMA Recovery Center today and begin your journey toward recovery.

Quick Points

• Opioid overdose affects the brain and can cause long-term brain damage.

• Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a drug overdose and acting quickly can reduce the risk of death and other fatal consequences.

• If someone is experiencing an overdose, act immediately: call 911, provide life-saving measures, and administer naloxone if it’s available.

Understanding Opioid Overdose: What Happens in the Body?

When an opioid overdose occurs, the body's natural functions start to shut down due to the opioid's effects. During an opioid overdose, a person’s body is overwhelmed by the effects of the opioids, which can lead to a series of life-threatening symptoms, such as hypoxia and pulmonary edema.

Whether from prescription medication or street drugs, opioid overdoses require immediate medical attention. For this reason, it is necessary to recognize the signs and symptoms early, as this can save lives and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Signs and Symptoms of a Drug Overdose

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a drug overdose can be the difference between life and death. The common symptoms of a drug overdose include:

• Slowed Breathing

A person experiencing a drug overdose, especially with opioids, will experience slowed breathing, which can lead to oxygen deprivation if not addressed promptly.

• Loss of Consciousness

  Unresponsiveness and loss of consciousness are serious signs of drug or opioid overdose and require immediate medical attention.

• Seizures

  Seizures are occurrence during opioid overdoses, and this indicates severe brain distress.

• Vomiting and Nausea

  Vomiting is a common symptom of a drug overdose and poses a severe risk if the person is unconscious, as it can lead to aspiration, where vomit is inhaled into the lungs.

• Pulmonary Edema

  Characterized as a fluid leak into the lungs, pulmonary edema is a dangerous condition that can occur during an opioid overdose, which can make it difficult for the person to breathe.

• Blue Lips or Fingernails (Cyanosis)

  When oxygen levels drop due to slowed breathing, the skin, lips, or fingernails may turn blue, a clear sign that the body is not getting enough oxygen and immediate action is needed.

• Irregular Heart Rate

  A drug overdose can result in a slow or irregular heart rate, which increases the risk of fatal outcomes if left untreated.

Immediate Actions to Take During an Opioid Overdose

After recognizing the signs and symptoms that a person has overdosed on drugs or opioids, follow these steps to help prevent potential brain damage or death:

Call Emergency Services Immediately

If you suspect an opioid overdose, call 911 or your local emergency number.

Administer Naloxone (Narcan) If Available

Naloxone works by temporarily reversing the effects of opioids. If you have access to this medication, administer naloxone right away.

Provide Rescue Breathing If Necessary

If the person’s breathing slows or stops, provide rescue breathing to reduce the risk of permanent brain damage.

Place the Person in the Recovery Position

If the individual is unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position—on their side with their mouth open—to reduce the risk of pulmonary edema.

Stay with the Person Until Help Arrives

Never leave someone alone during an opioid overdose.

Can Opioid Overdoses Cause Permanent Brain Damage?

Yes, opioid overdoses primarily affect the brain, causing permanent brain damage due to oxygen deprivation when breathing slows or stops altogether. During an opioid overdose, the body struggles to get enough oxygen, which can lead to severe brain damage or even death if not treated immediately.

Long-Term Consequences of a Drug Overdose

• Cognitive impairment (reduced problem-solving and reasoning skills)

• Memory problems (difficulty recalling information)

• Mental health issues (depression, anxiety, and even PTSD)

• Behavioral issues (impulsiveness, lapses in judgment)

• Heart damage

• Seizures

• Liver and kidney damage

How Can NUMA Help?

NUMA Recovery Centers provide specialized support for individuals seeking treatment for substance or opioid use disorder to prevent the likelihood of an overdose. We make sure our services are accessible to people experiencing difficulty seeking treatment from privately owned rehab centers. Reach out to NUMA Recovery Centers today and explore the opportunity to live a drug-free life.