Whether it is an injury or a chronic condition, pain is difficult to live with. Even mild pain can make everyday life more difficult.
While opioids can be a useful tool for some types of pain, long-term use can lead to addiction and other problems. Before starting an opioid regimen, it is essential to learn about your other options, so you do not have a new issue after you recover from your injury.
Here’s what you should think about if your doctor recommends opioids for your recovery plan.
Know your options
Opioids are beneficial when it comes to pain relief, so they can be a simple solution. The problem they create, however, could be quite complex.
If your doctor suggests opioids for your treatment plan, talk about alternative medicines that may be less habit-forming. You may also want to try a non-opioid medication to see if it will manage your pain before starting on opioids.
Have a plan
If you and your doctor decide that opioids are the best course of action, talk about the plan for your recovery, including stopping the opioid medication. Opioids are incredibly addictive, so you should make a plan with your doctor for when you will stop taking opioids.
Stopping opioid medication can be challenging. You could experience withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Insomnia
It is essential to talk to your doctor about managing any opioid withdrawal symptoms you have so that your transition off your medication is as smooth as possible.
Opioid medication can be dangerous and addictive. You may want to consult another physician before starting opioids to see if there are alternatives.