Vicodin, Lorcet, Lortab and Percocet are some of the most commonly-prescribed painkillers. While painkillers are effective for getting rid of pain, they can be addictive. There are a number of signs that you may notice if you are addicted to painkillers.
Drowsiness
Painkillers act as depressants. This means that they slow down all of the functions in the body. That is why people who are addicted to painkillers may find themselves falling asleep during a conversation or while watching a movie. In some cases, painkillers can cause a person’s breathing to slow down too much, which can be deadly.
Increasing Usage
The effects of painkillers may diminish over time. That is why many people find themselves increasing their dosage. Adjusting your dosage without consulting with your healthcare provider can be dangerous. The higher your dosage is, the more likely you are to get addicted to the drug.
Flu-Like Withdrawal Symptoms
People who attempt to stop using painkillers will likely develop flu-like symptoms. This includes headaches, nausea and fever. These symptoms occur because the body has gotten adjusted to the medication and cannot function without it.
Doctor Shopping
Doctors today are becoming more reluctant to prescribe painkillers because of the addictive nature of them. That is why many people doctor shop. This is the process of going from doctor to doctor in order to obtain a prescription.
Defensiveness
It is likely that the person’s family will notice that something is wrong. They will likely confront the person about it. However, most people are in denial about any type of addiction that they have. They will get angry and upset when they are confronted. They may also get aggressive.
Social Isolation
People may desperately try to hide their addiction from their family members and friends. That is why they may withdraw from everyone. They stay away from the people they love so that they can continue to feed their addiction.
A Lack of Hygiene
A painkiller addiction will eventually affect the way a person looks. People who have a painkiller addiction may have trouble maintaining their hygiene. A person may not only have poor hygiene, but they may also have an unkempt appearance.
Weight Loss
Painkillers can cause metabolic changes in the body. It can also decrease a person’s appetite. That is why it is common for people who have a painkiller addiction to lose weight.
Neglect Responsibilities
When a person has an addiction, their main focus is on feeding their addiction. That is why they may ignore all of their other responsibilities. They may neglect their chores and bills. They may also miss work and school. Additionally, they may neglect their family members and friends.
Decreased Libido
Painkillers can lower estrogen and testosterone levels in the body. Both of these hormones are required to maintain a healthy libido level. These hormones also help maintain bone density and muscle mass. These problems occur as the result of the natural aging process. That is why many people do not attribute these symptoms to a painkiller addiction.
Ongoing Usage
Painkillers are typically only prescribed for a short amount of time. However, a person with an addiction may continue to use the medication despite the fact that their condition has improved.
Overspending
A painkiller addiction can be expensive. Many people with a painkiller addiction have several unexplained charges on their credit card statement. Because a painkiller addiction can be expensive, people may go to the extreme to get money to feed their addiction. They may pawn items in order to get money. They may also steal from their family members and friends. Additionally, some people rob will rob a store.
Alice Munday is a freelance writer from Virginia Beach, Virginia. In recovery herself, she is dedicated to helping those who struggle with addiction.