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Person suffering addiction to post-surgery pain medications

The Risk of Addiction to Post-Surgery Pain Medications

After going through the ordeal of surgery, you face another tough battle. Pain is inevitable after most surgeries, and the more extensive the surgery, the more severe and long-lasting the pain typically is. You and your doctor will likely devise a plan for managing your pain post-surgery. When pain is minimized, your body can focus on the healing process, and you can recover more quickly. Unfortunately, many of the painkillers used to treat post-surgery pain put you at risk of developing an addiction.

If you worry about developing a painkiller addiction after surgery, consider Promises Behavioral Health’s painkiller addiction treatment. Our world-renowned addiction specialists will help you detox safely and prepare you for long-term recovery. We offer a variety of treatment modalities, including individual and group therapy, experiential therapies, and more. Our luxurious amenities and holistic approach to care will help you heal your mind, body, and spirit. Contact us today at 844.875.5609 to learn more about our programs and how we can help you get your life back on track.

Addiction to Post-Surgery Pain Medications

Addiction to post-surgery pain medications can happen more easily than you may think. The problem is that, while painkillers are meant to help you feel better, they can also cause feelings of euphoria. As your body becomes used to the drugs, you may start to feel that you need them in order to feel “normal.” Before you know it, you may find yourself taking more and more of the drug just to feel “OK.”

Signs that you may be addicted to post-surgery pain medication include:

  • You take the medication more often or in higher doses than prescribed
  • You feel like you need the medication to function normally
  • You experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop taking the medication
  • You continue to use the medication even though it’s causing problems in your life

Planning Ahead to Avoid Painkiller Addiction After Surgery

There is no shame in being addicted to prescription painkillers. After all, you were prescribed the medication for a reason. However, if you are concerned about developing an addiction, there are some steps you can take to minimize your risk.

Before you undergo surgery, talk extensively with your doctor about how much pain you can expect to have and how long it will last. Knowing what to expect can go a long way toward making you feel more comfortable. You should also discuss the medications you can expect to use after surgery to control your pain. Ask your doctor how they work, how long you should take them, and the risks of developing a painkiller addiction. If you have addiction issues, you can be given a medication that is less likely to create dependence.

 

Risky Medications

Many of the most effective painkillers available are opioids. Unfortunately, they also give the user a euphoric feeling and the desire to keep using it. Over time, the user develops a tolerance to the drug and needs to use it more and more to achieve the same euphoria. This often leads to addiction. Addictive prescription opioids include:

  • Morphine
  • Codeine
  • Fentanyl
  • Oxycodone
  • HydrocodoneI

Treatment at Promises Behavior Health

Promises offers a range of treatment modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. We offer evidence-based therapy, experiential therapies, and more. Our expert clinical team will create a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and helps you achieve your recovery goals.

Treating Your Post-Surgery Pain Medications Addiction At Promises

If you’re struggling with a painkiller addiction, Promises Behavior Health can help. Contact us today at 844.875.5609 to learn more about our programs and how we can help you get your life back on track.

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