myOpioidRecoveryTeam

Can opioids cause brain lesions?

The search results provided don't specifically mention brain lesions as a direct effect of opioid use. However, opioids do cause significant changes to brain… read more

Can opioids cause brain lesions?

The search results provided don't specifically mention brain lesions as a direct effect of opioid use. However, opioids do cause significant changes to brain structure and function over time.

Long-term opioid use reshapes how the brain works, particularly affecting the prefrontal cortex (the part responsible for decision-making, judgment, and self-control). This area becomes less active with repeated opioid exposure, weakening its ability to regulate other brain regions like the reward system.

The most serious brain-related danger from opioids is respiratory depression during overdose. When breathing becomes too shallow, oxygen levels can drop dangerously low, potentially causing the heart and brain to shut down. This lack of oxygen could lead to brain damage.

While the brain changes from opioid use are real, they're not necessarily permanent. With treatment, support, and time, the brain can begin to heal and form healthier connections again.

If you're concerned about specific brain changes or lesions, it's important to discuss this with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your individual situation and order appropriate testing if needed.

myOpioidRecoveryTeam

How can someone with severe cancer-related pain begin thinking about opioid recovery when they're not in remission?

Living with severe chronic pain while managing opioid use disorder is incredibly… read more

How can someone with severe cancer-related pain begin thinking about opioid recovery when they're not in remission?

Living with severe chronic pain while managing opioid use disorder is incredibly challenging. Many people with OUD also experience chronic pain, and these conditions can feed into each other, making both harder to manage.

The good news is that recovery doesn't require you to be pain-free first. It starts with small, achievable steps that work for your current situation.

Here are some ways to begin:

* Start with self-reflection about what concerns you want to address first
* Work with your healthcare team on non-opioid pain management strategies like physical therapy, NSAIDs, or heat/ice therapy
* Consider medications like methadone or buprenorphine that can help reduce opioid cravings while also controlling pain
* Set small, practical goals that bring a sense of progress without overwhelming you
* Connect with supportive relationships or support groups who understand your journey

Recovery goals can change over time as your needs change. What matters most is finding what feels possible right now, even if it's just one small step.

Talk to your doctor about managing both your pain and opioid use together. They can help create a treatment plan that addresses both challenges without requiring you to choose between pain relief and recovery.

myOpioidRecoveryTeam

Are opioids okay for managing chronic pain when you have no current treatment?

Opioids can be prescribed for pain management, but they come with significant risks that are especially important to… read more

Are opioids okay for managing chronic pain when you have no current treatment?

Opioids can be prescribed for pain management, but they come with significant risks that are especially important to understand when dealing with long-term chronic pain.

When used short-term and exactly as prescribed under medical supervision, opioids can be safe. However, using them for more than a few days significantly raises the risk of long-term use and developing opioid use disorder (OUD). Research shows that starting with the third day of use, the risk of chronic opioid use increases with each additional day.

Here's what happens with long-term opioid use for chronic pain:

- Opioids reduce your body's natural production of endorphins (your body's "feel-good" chemicals that help relieve pain)
- This leads to tolerance, where the same dose no longer provides relief
- Regular use changes how your body processes pain, which can actually make pain worse over time (called opioid-induced hyperalgesia)
- You may develop cravings and need higher doses
- Stopping can cause withdrawal symptoms like muscle aches, anxiety, sweating, and diarrhea

Before considering opioids, it's worth exploring non-opioid options with your healthcare provider:

- Physical therapy, massage, or exercise
- Rest, ice, or heat therapy
- NSAIDs or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Lidocaine patches

The best approach is having an honest conversation with a healthcare provider who can assess your specific situation and help you weigh the benefits against the risks for your chronic pain management.