Pain pill abuse is a serious problem that has been on the rise in recent years. Pain pills, specifically opioids, are prescription drugs that are commonly used to manage pain. While opioids can be effective in treating pain, they also have a high potential for abuse and addiction. Prolonged use of opioids can also have devastating effects on the body.
If you or a loved one struggles with opioid addiction, it is imperative you seek treatment from experienced professionals. MATClinics provides both therapy and medication treatments to help patients find the root cause of their addiction and fight it.
What are opioids and how do they work?
Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and body, reducing the perception of pain. They also activate the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, which creates a sense of pleasure and well-being. This is what makes opioids so addictive.
When opioids are abused, they can have serious negative effects on the body. One of the most dangerous effects is the risk of overdose. Opioid overdose can cause respiratory depression, leading to hypoxia (lack of oxygen) and brain damage, which can result in coma or death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were over 49,000 opioid overdose deaths in the United States in 2019.
Effects of pain pill abuse on your body:
In addition to the risk of overdose, opioid abuse can cause other harmful effects on the body. These include:
- Respiratory problems: Opioids can depress breathing, leading to respiratory failure, pneumonia, and other respiratory issues.
- Gastrointestinal problems: Constipation, nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal problems are common with opioid use disorder.
- Liver damage: Long-term opioid abuse can lead to liver damage and even liver failure.
- Kidney damage: Opioids can also cause kidney damage and failure.
- Hormonal problems: Opioids can disrupt the hormonal balance in the body, leading to infertility, decreased sex drive, and other issues.
- Infectious diseases: Opioid abuse can also increase the risk of infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C, especially when opioids are injected.
It is important to note that the effects of opioid abuse can vary depending on the individual and the amount and duration of use. However, even short-term opioid abuse can have serious negative effects on the body. This is why seeking opioid addiction treatment from a reliable treatment center, such as MATClinics, is so important.
Seek Opioid Addiction Treatment at MATClinics
Opioid addiction treatment is crucial for those struggling with opioid addiction. Treatment options include medication-assisted treatment (MAT), counseling, and behavioral therapies. MAT involves the use of medication, such as methadone or buprenorphine, to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Counseling and behavioral therapies address the psychological aspects of addiction and help individuals develop coping skills to manage cravings and prevent relapse.
Prolonged opioid use can have severe effects on various body systems, leading to lasting consequences even after an individual has stopped using the drug. It is essential to understand the risks associated with opioid use and seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction. With proper treatment and support, recovery is possible, and individuals can regain their health and wellbeing. Contact MATClinics today to learn how we can assist you.