Anyone who’s ever suffered from severe back pain can understand how a person could become addicted to prescription painkillers. Narcotic pain medications work; the pain is reduced to a tolerable level. The pills make it possible to move around, go to work and have some semblance of a life.
The Problem of Illegal Use of Prescription Painkillers
Prescription painkillers are just as popular as marijuana with kids that are just beginning to experiment with illicit drugs. Painkillers are misused far too often, representing 75% of the problems connected to the abuse of prescription drugs. The drug most commonly misused is hydrocodone, synthesized from codeine, found in the opium poppy. Doctors and rehabilitation therapists who deal with those addicted to painkillers report that this is a very difficult addiction to treat.
The 7 Warning Signs of Addiction to Prescription Painkillers
1. When someone is preoccupied with worrying about when they can take the next dose and how large their supply of painkillers is, that’s the first sign of addiction.
2. Addicts often take more than was prescribed and take it oftener than was prescribed.
3. An addict will “doctor shop” to get additional prescriptions of the painkiller.
4. People find other ways to build their painkiller stash, such as buying online, stealing from relatives or buying on the street.
5. Continuing to take painkillers long after the problem should have been cured indicates addiction.
6. An addict won’t be willing to discuss their problem with friends or relatives.
7. An addict’s behavior will change. They may sleep a lot, be moody, angry and neglect responsibilities.
Withdrawal Isn’t Easy
The body becomes physically dependent on these painkillers. Pain medication affects the brain and the body. Endorphins, natural painkillers, are no longer produced because of the opiates being ingested. When someone stops taking these powerful drugs who has become dependent on them, they will experience painful withdrawal symptoms.
Chiropractic Offers Natural Pain Relief
Before getting hooked on powerful narcotics, consider chiropractic Back And Spinal Care in Philadelphia PA. A chiropractor’s goal is to enable someone to move comfortably. They use chiropractic services combined with state-of-the-art equipment to allow the body to ease pain naturally.
Bella Vista Family Chiropractic offers a full range of services for Back And Spinal Care in Philadelphia PA. Click here for more info on finding personal health solutions for your back problems.