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Drug Withdrawal


Sent to Health Experts July 27, 2006 9:20 a.m.

My 26 year old daughter became addicted to painkillers 2 years ago.   She went to a methadone treatment center for a year and a half and was down to 10 mg a day...then she abruptly quit going 2 months ago.   She got back on drugs, but says it's not as bad as 2 years ago.     Now she is trying to quit on her own - says she hasn't had anything for 5 days.    I am worried about her health during this withdrawal time.    What are the danger signals of withdrawal - shouldn't she see a doctor? She does not want to go into a clinic because she doesn't want to leave her 5 year old son, but she acknowledges that she isn't much good to him now while she's feeling ill.

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Female

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $15   
Answer
July 27, 2006 9:39 a.m. (18 minutes and 53 seconds later)
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Hi,

While it is advisable to quit with a doctor many abusers find they can do it on their own. One of the main reasons for using a clinic or a doctor is they can give her the support she needs to quit and she will be less likely to go back if she is with others.

Quitting pain killers doesn't offer to many health risks like alcohol, though there is a increased risk of heart complications. The main with draw symptoms are include restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes with goose bumps involuntary leg movements, watery eyes, runny nose, loss of appetite, irritability, panic, nausea, chills, and sweating. All which will significant decrease in 5-7 days.

But there are little things that you can do to ease the discomfort. The very best trick is to take a hot bath at the worst sign of symptoms it will help alleviate the pain and discomfort. I know the restless leg problems are a pain when trying to sleep so if She can get a hold of a heating pad to place her legs on at night it may help. (A good vibrating massager can help with leg cramps as well.


For the nausea saltine crackers and Ginger ale will work wonders also peppermints will ease the sick feelings. She can take some aleve to help with the cramping. Above all make sure she are getting plenty of fluids as it will help keep her body hydrated and make her feel a little better.


A natural trick for getting some sleep is to get plenty of fresh air and exercises. Maybe go to the local YMCA and ask for a visitors pass it is good or 3 days (and it is free) she can use the pool to swim and tire herself out. Also they have a wonderful water aerobics class that can help as well. They also have a hot tub which she can put her legs in to help ease the jumpiness.


Just keep telling her this is only 5 days at worst she can get though this. Make sure you give her as much support as you can and let her know she is doing the right thing for her and her son. This is a big undertaking but if she truly wants to kick the habit she can.

I wish you and her the best and will keep her in my thoughts, please let me know how she is doing and if you or she needs anything please let me know.

Walter



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Reply to Walter
Sent July 27, 2006 10:43 a.m. (1 hour and 4 minutes later)

Your comments are GREATLY appreciated - thanks so much for the positiveness attitude of your reply.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)

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