Prescription drugs are a common treatment plan for those suffering from an array of diseases. Although opioids may relieve the pain, these drugs come with a list of risks such as addictive behaviors which leads to drug abusing. When pain killers are abused, they can affect almost every part of the body. Consider educating yourself on the long term effects of taking pain killers.
Long Term Effects of Pain Killers
- Lungs: Opiates suppress the bodyโs ability to breathe, which over time impacts the way your lungs function. This leads to an increased risk of pneumonia or a build up of fluid in the lungs.
- Liver: Perhaps the most well-know, the liver can be severely damaged from abusing prescription drugs due to acetaminophen. Consuming pain killers daily puts you at high risk for liver damage.
- Stomach and Intestines: Opioids are known for causing constipation which often leads to narcotic bowel syndrome. Abusing painkillers slows down the bowels, causing constipation, nausea, bloating, vomiting, and abdominal distention.
- Heart: Those who regularly take painkillers are at greater risk for cardiovascular disease. Studies show that consuming prescription drugs, even with no intent to abuse, can easily influence this.
Alternative Treatment Options
Although prescription drugs help those who suffer from debilitating illnesses, many are turning to medical marijuana as a alternative treatment option. Using cannabis to relieve pain and ease symptoms allows individuals to maintain their daily tasks with no worries of long term effects. Consider researching if your state offers medical marijuana as a legal treatment plan. If you live in the state of Maryland, head over to the Mary and Main website to learn more on registering for your Maryland medical card!
Mary and Main is a fully licensed and certified medical marijuana dispensary located in Capitol Heights, Maryland. Founded by doctors and experienced caregivers, Mary and Main provides safe, premium quality medical cannabis products with exemplary and compassionate service to all certified patients who are suffering from a number of chronic debilitating illnesses.
Consult with our staff professionals to determine the best opiate-free, addiction-free treatment plan for your needs.