for about 10 years, I took daily painkillers under a doctors supervision because I had severe migraines. the headaches were caused by undiagnosed nasal polyps.
1 year ago, I had sinus surgery which removed the polyps. for about 8 weeks, I went off all painkillers excluding high doses of ibuprofen.
when those 8 weeks were over I continued to have (and still have) headaches that won't go away with over the counter medication. Every other day I take 2 fiorinal for pain. In between those days I take BC aspirin.
every doctor I have seen (I.e. My ENT and my neurologist) tell me there is no medical reason for me to have daily headaches.
i am trying for in vain to find a competent therapist who can help me. But until I do find such a therapist, what Can I do to make life easier for myself in the long run? And am I an addict? prior to this series of events, I never usEd drugs recreationally nor did I ever have an addiction problem.
....Hi Writter,,welcome to the NA board.
In NA, many would say that if you wonder if you're an addict, you likely are.
Overall, it wouldn't heart to attend some meetings to explore the question some more.
Personally,,I'd suggest you attend a pain management workshop, likely available at a local hospital.
Pain is recognized to be a very personal thing,,people experience it quite differently to one another, and there are a
number of ways to mitigate it's effects, and reduce the need for stronger medications.
From these,,two significant ones that stand out for me, are....
.....1.... plain tylenols or anti-inflams have differing effects on individuals,,,and try using softer forms earlier to avoid 'runaway pain'.
....2...meditation has been found to be useful. Personally, I've found this extremely helpful to overcome pain. There's usually Buddhist and Sufi groups in most urban centres,,which can lead to some interesting experiences, and a great exploration of the difference between religion and spirituality. Otherwise,,you can look online for 'mindfulness meditation' for some useful information. Just like in #1 above, I wouldn't try doing these practices once you're in the depth of pain,,it's best to develop a regular practice, then be able to call on the benefit of deep relaxation as you need it.
.....all th'best!
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...gawd,,,please don't let me -ever- forget why I came here in the first place!!(my 'senility' prayer)
We do suggest making a meeting and sharing your concerns if you are in doubt.Here is also some Literature to look at as you decide whether to attend the Program..I'll keep you in thought and prayer.Living in Pain without any sign of getting relief takes our lives to new ends...Let us know how you are doing
Guess what?? ONLY YOU can tell if you are an addict. We are not going to diagnosis nor judge anyone but ourselves!
For me, it was the overwhelming desire to use, each and every day. I couldn't live without them.
We used to live, and lived to use.
While there may be other ways to get over your use of fiorinal, we know of one way that does work. It's a 12 step program in the rooms of NA.
Give yourself a break and find one today!
Thank you all for your comments.
I will look into finding a pain management workshop at the local hospital.
Prior to that I will attending a meeting.
Thanks again and I will check in with you all from time to time.
Thank you all for your comments. I will look into finding a pain management workshop at the local hospital. Prior to that I will attending a meeting. Thanks again and I will check in with you all from time to time.
...good onya mate.....in the meantime, just remember to stop and breathe DEEEEP a few times a day.
.......me's looking forward to hearing back from you.....mike
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...gawd,,,please don't let me -ever- forget why I came here in the first place!!(my 'senility' prayer)
