Prescription Pain Killer Addiction: The Problem

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, in 2009 there were 7 million abusers of prescription drugs. The majority of this abuse was from prescriptions. Teens typically obtain these prescriptions from family or friends. The number of fatal prescription drug poisonings has more than tripled since 1999. In 2003, 10% of 12th graders reported using Vicodin. (National Institute on Drug Abuse’s 2003 Monitoring the Future survey of 8th, 10th, and 12th graders.)

I’ve seen many adults who began using prescription medications for a medical problem such as back pain, only later to become addicted to the medication. Others began experimenting in high school only to find they could not stop using. Finally, I see many patients wondering if they have an addiction. They can’t stop their medication, but they have never been addicts in the past nor are they experiencing addictive behavior.

Top 10 Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction

1. You doctor shop-almost a sure sign of addiction.
2. You are using more medication than prescribed by your doctor. This can sometimes be a sign of inadequate pain relief. However, if you have been previously stable on a dose of narcotics for pain and are increasing the dose over time, this is cause for concern.
3. You miss or are late to school/work/family responsibilities to use of obtain drugs. » Read more: Pain Killer Addiction: Top 10 Signs You May Have It

Summertime is a time of outdoor activities: walking, hiking, swimming, biking; family trips; going to the beach or lake; getting together with family and friends. It is a time of slowing down the fast pace of life and getting outside to enjoy the warmer weather. While summer is a time of re-creation and fun activities, it also has its hazards: sunburn, bug bites, injuries from physical activities, etc.

Fortunately, there are some important natural remedies to have on hand to manage the potential hazards of the summer season so that your fun is not derailed by some of summer’s potential hazards. The following is a list of five natural remedies that can offer some protection and piece of mind for this outdoor season.

1) Calendula Ointment (lotion or gel)

Wonderful ointment for minor cuts, scrapes and shallow wounds. Calendula is an antibacterial and an astringent. It prevents and heals infections. Good for first-degree sunburn as well.

2) Arnica Montana

Top remedy for physical injuries that results in bruising, or strenuous activities that produce muscle soreness. Any “bruised” sensation in the body will be helped with this remedy. Also aids in the emotional shock associated with injury or overexertion. » Read more: Five Natural Remedies for Summertime