Treatment Options for those Suffering from Chronic Pain and Opioid Addiction

Image Source: breakingthecycles.wordpress.com

Those suffering from chronic pain are more at risk for an opioid addiction. The correlation can easily be seen: those in pain usually depend on various types of opioids for their pain treatment or management. These two conditions are distinct and are expressed in different ways for every individual. This is why many medical professionals take a multi-dimensional approach to the management chronic pain, and address the high possibility of an opioid addiction.

Similar to other chronic conditions such as asthma or diabetes, both pain and addictive conditions typically have psycho-behavioral and biological factors that shape how the conditions are expressed. It is therefore important that physicians thoroughly comb and analyze patients’ complete medical history. Treatment options are designed based on consistent dialogue. Patients are also fully encouraged to engage in self-care and constant introspection. It must be noted that both conditions require long-term clinical care so it is essential that the patient feels comfortable with his or her clinician so that an effective treatment plan can be designed and implemented.

Image Source: rapidmedicaldetox.wordpress.com

The patient should also understand that pain and addiction share a number of similar clinical features such as mood and sleep disturbances, functional losses, and high levels of stress. Usually, one condition reinforces the other. Treatment plans will generally involve biopsychosocial components to improve recovery.

Lastly, it must be noted that while addiction can be fully treated, chronic pain can only be properly managed. Medical research is still tracking down a cure for chronic pain.

Live a full and productive life despite any pain condition with the help of Dr. Melanie Novak, a specialist for all types of pain including headaches, neck and lower back pain, shoulder, hip and knee discomfort, and various types of joint pain. For more information on her practice, follow this Twitter account.

A Home Care Plan for Shingles

Although the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) that causes chickenpox, or what is commonly known as shingles, is not a life-threatening condition, it can have some painful symptoms and if left untreated for long, may cause some complications. Also, shingles can be particularly contagious to those who haven't had chicken pox. As such, looking into a home care plan for shingles is important. Here are some things to keep in mind when one has or is caring for someone with shingles.

Shingles is characterized by itchy and painful water-filled blisters. It may be tempting to scratch these but try not to do so. These blisters are actually contagious, so those who haven't had the chickenpox shouldn't be exposed to these. Instead, keep the rashes dry and clean so they aren't infected further – cornstarch and baking soda are recommended to decrease the moisture. One can also ask a doctor about antihistamines or other anti-allergy medications to lessen the itching.

Image source: wikipedia.org

Any towels, blankets, or clothing that have had contact with the sores should be washed thoroughly with hot water or discarded. Additionally, to make sure clothing doesn't rub on the rash so much, it's also best to wear loose garments.

Those whose shingles are expressed on the face, nose, or eyes may need to consult a doctor at once. In the eyes, shingles can cause corneal damage, inflammation, cataracts, and even some loss of vision so seeking medical care is of the utmost imperative.

Image source: wikipedia.org

Shingles patients may also experience postherpetic neuralgia even when the shingles has subsided. This condition, characterized by either excruciating pain or diminished sensation in the area where the rashes were, may last from anywhere between a few months to much longer. Because the pain can be unbearable, those who suffer from this are typically referred to pain management specialists who can help them through the pain.

 Dr. Melanie Novak, M.D., pain management specialist, creates individualized treatment plan to address her patients' specific pain needs . Visit this website to learn more about chronic pain symptoms and treatments