Painkillers such as opioids are dangerous in the long term for most people. These drugs can cause addiction and dependence. They can also cause physical changes and health complications when taken over a long time. Because of these complications, it’s often best for a person not to use these drugs for extended periods. If you’re facing addiction to painkillers, it’s also essential to seek treatment from Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston by calling 866.516.8356 for immediate help with the effects of painkillers.
What Are the Effects of Painkillers on the Brain?
Continued use of painkillers over an extended period can change the way the brain functions, which can often lead to a decline in cognitive function. Mood swings emotional trauma can occur. Furthermore, drug addiction can form. Addiction occurs when a person recognizes the risks of using the drug but continues to do so in a compulsive manner. Dependence can also occur. When this happens, a person cannot stop taking the medication without feeling intense pain, discomfort, and cravings.
Painkillers can impact the brain in various ways:
- They limit the feelings of pain by controlling the pain receptors in the brain.
- These drugs can also influence happiness, sometimes leading to a loss of pleasure in any other facet of life outside of drug use.
- Over time, cognitive function declines lead to memory loss and mood swings.
- Decision-making abilities fade, often leading to depression and anxiety.
- Judgment changes leading to potentially risky behaviors such as engaging in unprotected sex.
If you’re experiencing the effects of painkillers on your overall health, it’s time to find painkiller treatment.
What Are the Effects of Painkillers on Overall Health?
There is always the risk of overdose from opioids. An overdose occurs because these drugs slow down the function of the brain, which leads to a depressed level of breathing and heart rate. As a result, the brain does not get enough oxygen, and a person’s heart may stop beating, which may lead to a coma. In all situations, this is a life-threatening condition requiring emergency medical help.
In addition to this, painkillers can impact the function of the heart, digestive system, liver, and kidneys. Over time, it can lead to malnutrition. Many people who use these drugs long term do not maintain overall health in terms of eating well, sleeping enough, and getting good fitness.
How Do You Know You Need Help for Prescription Drug Abuse?
Drug addiction can worsen over time. Yet, a person with chronic pain may not recognize the symptoms of addiction because they need the medication for the expected pain. It’s a fine line to know when you need help. However, if you are pulling away from friends and family or struggling to maintain responsibilities, that could be why.
Also, look for signs of withdrawal such as insomnia, anxiety, and intense pain. You may also have strong cravings for the drugs when you don’t use them.
Contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
Treatment is available at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston. It’s not likely a person will be able to stop using these medications on their own. However, with a wide range of treatment options, we can help your body get back to health and to eliminate the risk of pain in doing so. To learn more about our programs, call us or check out these services:
- Women’s detox program
- Men’s detox program
- Residential treatment programs
- Dual diagnosis treatment programs
- Medical detox programs
The effects of painkillers can impact many facets of life. With treatment, it may be possible to control all or most of them. Our team at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston can provide the help necessary to do so. To learn more about drug addiction treatment, call us at 866.516.8356 or reach out to us online today.
