Am I hooked?

This has been bothering me for a while.

For the last few years not one day has gone by when I have not taken a pretty hefty dose of pain killers. I take Paracetamol, Di-Hydrocodeine and sometimes Morphine Sulphate solution.

When moving down to Huddersfield recently, I noted that my first thought was how to guarantee a fresh supply of these pain killers. The thought of being without was the thing that most scared me. I simply could not bear to think that I might be without the drugs which have literally kept me going.

Then it hit me that I was thinking and acting just like a drug addict.

Sure, I still suffer from pain from my legs which is quite disabling at times, particularly at night. Sure, I still have the condition that I am being 'treated' for - but could it be that I am also addicted to the pain killers which have enabled me to have a more normal existence?

I resent the constantly upset stomach that I have. I hate that I have to eat something each time I take pills in order to prevent heartburn and I simply do not like being at the beck and call of these tablets.

Can I survive without them? I have to find out. It is now 13 hours since my last dose.

I'll let you know.

Comments

[Ian]

most people wash them down with water...
:-)
GOOD LUCK

[Rebecca]

Not going to be flippent on this one.

I think the fact that you have questioned it, indicates that there may be some truth, but at the same time no-one should be in any unnecessary pain.

Long-term pain is hard to manage and the fact you have started swimming is a wonderful sign that you are already seeking alternatives.

Set yourself markers for levels of pain and the relief needed. I am sure this will give you some surity that you are back in control.

:)

[christine]

I was told to come off even 'over the counter' painkillers slowly. Please be carefull!!! Mind you I still take up to 4 panadol extras each day for headaches etc - just taking two is a good day. My goodness - what does that mean?

[lesley m]

I was on painkillers for 9 years and never thought that I would manage without them, have you tried anything else?, one of the big tips I got was to give up diet coke and other diet drinks and foods which contain aspartame as this chemical turns to formeldahyde when it reaches body temp and if you get overheated it then changes to formic acid which attacks the bones especially at the joints.(I am not sure if this is actual fact but someone gave me the info from internet source) I am not cured but my pain is much easier to manage,(the painkillers were easier than the diet coke to give up)maybe its worth a try, whatever you do when thinking of changing any course of treatment or you are worried about it talk to your doctor

[Rebecca]

Sorry flippant, even...