Portugal eased its opioid epidemic, while U.S. drug deaths skyrocketed

Re:Portugal eased its opioid epidemic, while U.S. drug death... by bloopernova on Saturday February 24, 2024 @04:38PM (#39495357)

I was in a serious road accident decades ago. I have been in pain ever since. This pain is not lessened by over the counter painkillers. Plus over the counter painkillers are harmful to take in large doses over a long term.

My nerves are damaged by something in my back. (it hasn't been determined what, just that the damage occurs) I am in a debilitating amount of pain.

So I take an opioid several times a day. Before the opioid crisis I was taking 10mg morphine twice a day. Now I take Suboxone, I'm in more pain but not a paralyzing amount.

To your question about what it's like: strong opioids bring a euphoric numb lightness. If you're in a vulnerable place in your life where you are not well supported and don't experience much joy, then that euphoria can be overwhelming. You might want to feel that again ASAP because compared to being in pain, depressed, anxious, you felt pretty good for a while.

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Re:Portugal eased its opioid epidemic, while U.S. drug death... by undersuit on Saturday February 24, 2024 @06:23PM (#39496070)

I hope you're doing well as you can. I injured my back many years ago and I was worried about developing a habit. Surgery and PT have got me back to 95% though I occasionally use medical marijuana as a crutch for bad days. I count myself lucky, not everyone can deal with their symptoms with exercise and light medication.

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Re:Portugal eased its opioid epidemic, while U.S. drug death... by bloopernova on Saturday February 24, 2024 @07:04PM (#39496280)

I am doing OK, thank you. I have some useful exercises, like the piriformis stretch, that help me manage the pain level. Plus I am thankful to be able to walk my dog for 2 to 4 miles in one go, several times a week, so my physical fitness isn't completely in the toilet :)

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Re:Portugal eased its opioid epidemic, while U.S. drug death... by baxtr on Sunday February 25, 2024 @03:25PM (#39504388)

Thanks so much for sharing. I’m sorry to hear about your injury.

The “euphoric numb lightness” was what I was looking for.

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