Migraines are a very real condition, and can be problematic to those who suffer them. They can cause intense pain, nausea, and vomiting. They can make you sensitive to light or noise, and they can affect your life and work. June is recognized as National Migraines and Headaches Awareness Month. According to the Migraine Research Association, 12% of the population suffers from migraines. For certain groups of patients with migraines, like the elderly and pregnant women who often avoid triptans or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioid medications could potentially be used for occasional pain management. Opioids can be an effective treatment for those who are experiencing migraines. However, it can be important to be very careful when using opioids to manage or treat migraines. Oxycodone is one such prescription medication that can be used to treat moderate to severe pain. Health problems, addiction, and overdose relating to opioids such as Oxycodone have been one the rise in the US for more than a decade, coinciding with the increased number of prescriptions for these kinds of drugs. In 2017, more than 47,000 Americans died as a result of an opioid overdose. In 2018, about 128 people a day died after overdosing on opioids. But how exactly had things gotten to that point? Pharmaceutical companies assured healthcare providers in the late 1990s that opioids would not be addictive to those prescribing the medications, which lead to increased prescriptions of narcotics. Aside from the potential to become addicted to these substances, there are also a few things to consider when it comes to taking narcotics to treat migraines. Even at low dances, opioids may worsen headaches, may not be as effective as other migraine drugs, and there are other risks with taking opioids, like nausea, feeling dizzy, or depression. What alternatives are there for migraines, aside from opioids?
- Painkillers for tooth extraction and oral surgery, which tend to be anti-inflammatory
- Treatments for lower back pain, like physical therapy or acupuncture
- Easing pain from neuropathy with the use of massage, or dietary supplements
If you or a loved one may be experiencing a dependence on opioids, it can be imperative to seek out help to prevent overdosing or greater consequences. Tishanna Dillard, Marketing Operations Specialist
If you or someone you know is suffering from addiction, give us a call at the Top of the World Ranch in Milan, Illinois. Come join us at our beautiful ranch. We can be reached at (844) 814-8885, or you can email [email protected]