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How long will a heroin addict live in the final stages of cirrhosis and hepatitis C?
Wiki User
∙ 14y ago
== == No one can answer this one and not even the doctors. Some patients have a lust for life and "mind over matter" is so true. The human body is certainly an amazing structure and one we often take lightly. I have not trying to be flippant here at all, but in ways being on heroin can help this person get through the nasty effects from cirrhosis and Hepatitis C. I think you know already that the life expectancy is on the low side as far as cirrhosis, but many people can live fairly long lives with Hepatitis C. With the heroin at least this person will not have to endure some of the painful side effects either of these diseases can create. It is so difficult to get off heroin so this person will not likely make any changes in this department at this point in time. I have been through many long years with three friends of mine with AIDS and each one is different. One had given up completely and hunkered into their home (until it was necessary to be hospitalized) before passing on. The 2nd friend worked between conventional medicine and Homeopathy medicine and although there is no known cure for AIDS it has lengthened this person's life. My 3rd friend has been taking a few medications here and there, but forces themselves to become active and (not in denial) tries to forget they have AIDS and still works and is productive. This person is still living to this day. I believe the mind is a beautiful thing and highly underestimated and if one puts their mind on a survival mode they will surely make it to a longer life than expected by any doctors or the medical profession as a whole. Good luck God Bless Marcy
Wiki User
∙ 14y ago
Wiki User
∙ 7y agoIt depends entirely on the environment in which they live. If a person is receiving clean, medical heroin, it will have no significant effect on their life span. In fact, there are many recorded cases of prominent people living long and productive lives while addicted to heroin. One such example was Dr. William Stewart Halsted, who is known as the "father of modern surgery". He invented most of the basic techniques of modern surgery during a period of forty years when he was a heroin addict.
Another famous heroin addict was Senator Joseph McCarthy of anti-communist fame. See Some Eminent Narcotics Addicts at http://www.druglibrary.org/schaffer/Library/studies/cu/cu5.HTML
Heroin is just another form of ordinary hospital morphine. It is diacetyl morphine. The only difference between it and regular morphine is that heroin is three times stronger by weight. That is, one grain of heroin equals three grains of morphine. There is no other difference and they are both converted to the same form of morphine in the body. The only reason that heroin is completely illegal while morphine is legal is because Congress went a little crazy in 1924 and outlawed it without really knowing what it was. This syndrome is typical with all US drug laws - Congress never really considered the evidence at any point. There is simply no medical justification for heroin being illegal.
There are millions of people who take ordinary hospital morphine for pain in the United States. It is considered to be a safe medicine and it is used routinely without problems. The addiction rate for the medical use of morphine is around one-third of one percent.
Heroin is prescribed in clinics in Europe to heroin addicts. The addicts who are on the program do not suffer any significant health problems associated with medical heroin.
The number of heroin "overdoses" in the US in a typical year is about 2,000. This is about the same number of people killed by Tylenol. By contrast, tobacco kills about 400,000 people per year, and alcohol kills about 100,000. More people die from overdoses of alcohol than overdoses of heroin.
The reason that "overdose" is in quotes above, is because no one is really sure if they are true heroin overdoses. The US Federal Government did some research in the 1950s and they were unable to find a dose of heroin that would put an addict in danger of overdose. Tolerance levels can be quite high, and most "overdoses" occur among addicts.
The real explanation for "overdoses" is probably contaminants in the street heroin. People who have "overdosed" usually show symptoms that are not consistent with a true heroin overdose -- such as dying while the needle is still in their arm, or pulmonary edema.
In addition, heroin addicts suffer a number of dangers which are primarily due to the fact that heroin is against the law. There are the dangers of injecting anything, the dangers of injecting impure substances, and the dangers of dirty needles, among others. In addition, addicts often do not take good care of their health in other ways. These problems are primarily due to the legal situation. Most of these problems were not signficant problems when heroin was completely legal and sold over the counter -- and was even included in some baby colic remedies. Prior to about 1906, we didn't have most of these problems, and there was no drug-related crime associated with heroin, either.
Those who want a good history of heroin and the problems surrounding it should read the Consumers Union Report on Licit and Illicit Drugs at http://druglibrary.org/schaffer/Library/studies/cu/cumenu.htm The first several chapters contain a primer on heroin, the history, and how we got into the current situation.
I am sure you can.In a year or so
It should be noted that heroin addicts will generally live much longer than alcoholics. Also to consider is the geographic oddities of doing H: You're more likely to OD if you do your dope in a strange or new place than usual.
**edit** Heroin overdoses are only rarely called true heroin overdoses because there are generally a multitude of other substances in the person's system at the same time. It's not because heroin is less dangerous (as the above answer implies). It usually happens when a recovering addict is on a methadone prescription, and heroin (and very usually Valium) are mixed. Because the recovering addict no longer has such a high tolerance, doses he/she used to take in the past can now be life threatening.
Wiki User
∙ 14y agoi know someone that did heroine for 3 months, and spent the next 8 months in the hospital and rehab
it lasts until the person finally believes that being clean and sober is more important than being a junkie, and begins to do something about it
Wiki User
∙ 14y agoThere is no "average person" when it comes to addiction, but we can make some generalizations. Recovery from addiction is contingent upon a wide range of conditions: the degree and length of the addiction, the protocols used, the emotional and psychosocial factors affecting the addict, the quality of treatment, aftercare and support (including treatment of codependency issues in close family members, either therapeutically or by attendance at self-help meetings), and the desire of the addict to become and remain clean and sober. We could guess that an individual who is successful at staying clean and free of ALL drugs ( including Methadone and Suboxone, after initial detox), would be able to handle most routine activities, jobs, etc. at between 9 months and two years, if they have good supports.* If the person continues with their program of recovery, support groups, and any necessary treatment for psychological problems not directly related to the addiction, they could in many cases be back in mainstream society in two to three years. Continued recovery is contingent upon cleaning up the chaos in our lives caused by the addiction and any preexisting conditions, maintaining a healthy, relatively stress-free life, and avoiding circumstances that might tempt us to use. Recovery is not for sissies. *Methadone and Suboxone maintenance, by keeping the changes in the brain caused by addiction active, and preventing the brain from recovering completely, are not consistent with the physical and mental conditions that lead to long-term recovery.
Wiki User
∙ 14y agoIt will always totally depend on the individual taking it, there are genes in your body that determine the likelihood of addiction to certain chemical substances, some people may be able to take heroin multiple times and remain totally fine others may take it only once and crave it, really the best way to go is to never bother trying it and if anyone is still interested in doing so look at "ben the diary of a heroin addict" it really shows the horrific consequences of substance abuse on the individual but more importantly on the ones who love said individual.
Wiki User
∙ 14y agoi used 4 a long time and found it funny u said live. where is an h addict ever living we r the living dead. u r numb emotionless and as soon as u dont have it it all hits u everything u have lost all u have done an who u have become where is there room to live when ur dying 4 ur next fix
Wiki User
∙ 14y agodepends on how much they do. i know alot of people that have done it everyday for 10+ years
Wiki User
∙ 13y agoJust once.
Wiki User
∙ 10y agoThey don't
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What causes postnecrotic cirrhosis?
1. Alcohol is a very common cause of cirrhosis2. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) refers to a wide spectrum of liver diseases that, like alcoholic liver disease, ranges from simple steatosis, to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), to cirrhosis. All stages of NAFLD have in common the accumulation of fat in liver cells. The term nonalcoholic is used because NAFLD occurs in individuals who do not consume excessive amounts of alcohol, yet.3. Chronic viral hepatitis is a condition where hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus infects the liver for years. Most patients with viral hepatitis will not develop chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis.4. Autoimmune hepatitis is a liver disease caused by an abnormality of the immune system that is found more commonly in women. The abnormal immune activity in autoimmune hepatitis causes progressive inflammation and destruction of liver cells (hepatocytes), leading ultimately to cirrhosis.5. Infants can be born without bile ducts (biliary atresia) and ultimately develop cirrhosis. Other infants are born lacking vital enzymes for controlling sugars that leads to the accumulation of sugars and cirrhosis.
What are the stages of liver disease?
There are many myths regarding the stages of cirrhosis of the liver. Many people believe that cirrhosis only occurs in heavy drinkers, while others think they are safe from the disease simply because they avoid alcohol. The reality, however, is that liver cirrhosis can afflict any person for a number of reasons. Knowing the stages of liver cirrhosis can help you understand the disease and take preventative measures to protect yourself from it.What is Cirrhosis?Cirrhosis is a disease in which the liver loses the ability to function due to fibrous scar tissue and nodules replacing the healthy tissue within the organ. It is a chronic illness that can afflict anyone. Heavy drinkers are at a higher risk of developing liver cirrhosis, but anyone with hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease or cystic fibrosis is also at risk.Educating yourself about the stages and symptoms of liver cirrhosis can help you protect yourself from the disease. Early stagesIn the early stages of liver cirrhosis, severe symptoms are not always present. A patient sometimes complains of itching, fatigue, jaundice and changes in the shape of their fingernails. During these early stages, many doctors are simply forced to treat the symptoms as they arise. If the disease is caught during these early stages, there is a more positive prognosis. If the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may occur. The size of the liver may increase, the spleen may enlarge and the body can sometimes form ascites. This happens when fluid accumulates in body cavities (such as the stomach) and causes a bloated appearance.Late stagesThe late stages of liver cirrhosis have a much more negative prognosis than the early stages. In these stages, the liver is most likely beyond repair and is not curable through medication alone. Often, patients who are in the late stages of liver cirrhosis suffer from complications such as hepatic encephalopathy, in which the liver cannot filter ammonia out of the bloodstream. An excess of ammonia in the bloodstream can affect a person's cerebral functioning and cause him or her to suffer from forgetfulness, unresponsiveness and changes in sleeping habits. The final stage of cirrhosis, sometimes called end-stage cirrhosis, requires a liver transplant. If the transplant is not performed, there is usually not much more the doctors can do for the patient.Cirrhosis of the liver is a severe disease; understanding the stages and realizing that anyone is at risk, not just heavy drinkers, can help you watch out for the symptoms in yourself or those close to you. While the prognosis is not always positive, it is much easier to spot the symptoms of this disease if you understand it, and know what to look for.
What are the disease of the liver?
the four stages of liver disease are: 1.) Inflammation 2.) Fibrosis 3.) Cirrhosis 4.) and well cancer...
What is the difference between liver cancer and liver cihrossis?
Liver cancer and liver cirrhosis are distinct medical conditions, but they can be interconnected. Here's an overview of each: Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma - HCC): Definition: Liver cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the liver. The most common form of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Causes: Chronic conditions like hepatitis B or C, liver cirrhosis, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain genetic disorders can increase the risk of liver cancer. Symptoms: Symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, jaundice, and changes in appetite. Liver Cirrhosis: Definition: Liver cirrhosis is an advanced scarring of the liver tissue. It is often a result of long-term liver damage and inflammation. Causes: Chronic alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis (B or C), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and autoimmune liver diseases are common causes of cirrhosis. Symptoms: Early stages may be asymptomatic, but as cirrhosis progresses, symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, easy bruising, swelling in the legs (edema), and confusion. Interconnection: Liver Cirrhosis as a Risk Factor for Liver Cancer: Cirrhosis increases the risk of developing liver cancer. Chronic liver damage and inflammation, often caused by conditions like hepatitis or excessive alcohol consumption, can lead to cirrhosis. In cirrhotic liver tissue, the risk of developing cancerous cells increases. Monitoring and Surveillance: Individuals with cirrhosis are often closely monitored for the development of liver cancer through routine imaging and screening tests.
When a doctor tells you are at the end stages of cirrhosis and you don't have much longer to live what does that mean?
Cirrhosis is a scarred liver, normally caused by alcoholism, long-time liver disease. Since the liver is a very important organ, when it fails, you don't have much longer to live unless you get a transplant.
The Stages and Effects of Liver Disease?
In the human body, the liver acts as a filter for the bloodstream, and it's primary role is to remove toxins. The liver also removes fats from blood and then transfers them for storage. When the liver becomes overwhelmed by toxins or fats, it can then lead to liver disease. The term "liver disease" actually encompasses a variety of illnesses and disorders that effect the liver, although people primarily associate liver disease with hepatitis, cirrhosis and fatty liver. Most liver disease builds in stages, starting with fatty liver. From there, a progression occurs to hepatitis, and finally, cirrhosis. Fatty liver disease occurs when too many fat cells have accumulated in the liver, but the condition is typically reversible. Hepatitis, however, is much more serious and is typically brought on by a build up of toxins, although there are a number of viruses which can also cause hepatitis. Symptoms of hepatitis usually include jaundice, muscle pain, dark urine and abdominal pain and pressure. If liver disease progresses to cirrhosis, the chances for survival begin to drop. Cirrhosis occurs when the liver has been accumulated to many scars, and these scars ultimately choke off the bile ducts which help to transfer toxins out of the bloodstream. Once the process of cirrhosis begins, treatment possibilities become limited, and often, the only option for combating cirrhosis is a liver transplant. While the human liver has an amazing regenerative quality, if too much scarring has occurred and too many liver cells have died, it loses its ability to regenerate. One of the primary causes of liver disease is the over-consumption of alcohol over a long period of time. Many people who suffer from alcoholism go on to develop liver disease, and in some cases, this can lead to fatalities. Certain medications, such as acetaminophen, can also lead to liver disease if taken in too large a quantity in a short period of time, or when taken in smaller amounts over long periods of time. If you're concerned about the health of your liver, it's important to have blood tests performed to determine if any damage has occurred. In many cases, liver disease and damage can be reversed if caught early enough.
What is cirrhosis of the liver?
CirrhosisCirrhosis of the liver is a consequence of chronic liver disease characterized by replacement of liver tissue by fibrotic scar tissue as well as regenerative nodules, leading to progressive loss of liver function. Cirrhosis is most commonly caused by alcoholism and hepatitis C, but has many other possible causes. Cirrhosis is generally irreversible once it occurs, and treatment generally focuses on preventing progression and complications. In advanced stages of cirrhosis the only option is a liver transplant.1Sulphasalazine, an inexpensive drug used for arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, can reverse the scarring associated with cirrhosis of the liver, according to scientists at the University of Newcastle in the UK.Previously thought to be irreversible, new research on animals has found that the scarring damage can be reversed with the drug. If research with humans conforms these findings, it may mean that use of the drug could eliminate the need for liver transplants.The scientists will start clinical trials with previously heavy drinkers who no longer drink and whose livers are heavily scarred.
What are the six stages of the heroin trail?
Not sure what you mean by the 6 stages but the Heroin trail goes like this:The Opium farmer harvests the poppies,They are then converted into heroin (10kg of opium = 1kg of Heroin)The heroin is given to the Local & area dealers who take it to the Afghan Drugs boss.The Drugs boss won't touch the heroin so it won't be tracked back to them, it is then given to the Afghan smugglers.The afghan smugglers take it on camels across the border to the UK smugglers who take it back in trucks (Gun fights at the border are common)The smugglers take it to the UK drugs boss, who doesn't touch it either.It is the given to the area & street dealers who are addicts themselves, so they fulfil their needs and sell to the addicts. They use the profits to buy more for themselves.
What is vivitrol?
Vivitrol is used to treat opioid dependence. It cannot cure addiction but works by binding to opioid receptors and blocks them from being activated by opioid use. In the early stages of getting sober, it can prevent an addict from getting high. It can only be useful when the addict has a free strong will to get sober.
What is the treatment for hepatitis ABC?
Hepatitis C is a viral disease where the liver is affected. The treatment depends usually on the state of the affected organ and the symptoms of the disease. The treatment usually involves use of anti viral medications and for worst cases, liver transplant may be needed.
An Introduction to Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is disease that results in an inflamed liver. Most cases of hepatitis are caused by a group of viruses, but the disease can also be caused by toxins such as alcohol or medications, infection or other diseases that affect the autoimmune system.Hepatitis A VirusThe hepatitis A virus causes an infection in the liver that is highly contagious. The virus is most often contracted through contact with contaminated food or water or by having contact with someone who has already been diagnosed with the virus. Symptoms of hepatitis A may include lack of appetite, fever, pain in the muscles, yellowing of the eyes and skin, vomiting, exhaustion and pain in the liver.Hepatitis B VirusThe hepatitis B virus also causes a severe infection in the liver. This hepatitis virus can cause liver cancer, failure or cirrhosis. Symptoms of hepatitis B usually manifest three months after infection. Patients may experience vomiting, yellowing of the eyes and skin, nausea, exhaustion, dark urine, pain in the joints or abdominal pain. Hepatitis B can be contracted through sexual contact with an infected individual, sharing needles or from mother to child during birth. Today, most people receive a vaccine for this virus during childhood.Hepatitis C VirusLike the other hepatitis viruses, hepatitis C causes inflammation of the liver. This type of the virus is more serious than either hepatitis A or B because it generally causes no noticeable symptoms until the liver is severely damaged. During the early stages of the virus, patients may feel tired, nauseous or experience mild joint pain or tenderness in the abdomen. These symptoms often simply feel like the flu during early stages. Hepatitis C is transmitted when contact is made with contaminated blood. Most commonly, the virus is spread through sexual contact, sharing needles and childbirth. Before 1992, many patients contracted the virus through unsafe blood transfusions. The risk of contracting the virus through a blood transfusion has greatly diminished since then.
Does cirrhosis cause the liver to grow?
The liver is the part of your body which is your life saving device. The liver grows before you are born. If this answers your question, I'm glad I helped.
