There is a link between Chronic Pain and Alcohol Abuse.
Chronic pain and alcohol abuse are often linked. People who abuse alcohol are more likely to experience chronic pain, and people who experience chronic pain are more likely to abuse alcohol.
Alcohol is a depressant.
It is no secret that alcohol is a depressant. It numbs the senses and can provide temporary relief from physical and emotional pain. It is no wonder that people self-medicate with alcohol when they are in pain.
Why People in Pain Turn to Alcohol
There are many reasons why people might turn to alcohol to ease their pain. Some people may try to avoid taking prescription medications, while others may simply find alcohol more accessible than other forms of relief.
Alcohol is a toxin that can cause serious damage to the body in the short and long term. It can lead to liver damage, heart disease, and cancer when consumed in large quantities. It can also interact dangerously with other medications. And, of course, alcohol abuse can lead to addiction, which is its own form of pain.
There are several possible explanations for this link. One is that people who abuse alcohol are more likely to engage in risky behaviors that can lead to chronic pain. For example, they may be more likely to have accidents or engage in violence.
Another explanation is that chronic pain can lead to alcohol abuse. People who are in pain may turn to alcohol to try to self-medicate. They may also find that alcohol helps them to cope with the pain. Whatever the reason, self-medicating with alcohol can be a dangerous proposition.
The dangers of combining pain medications and alcohol are well-documented. Chronic drinking ultimately makes the pain worse. But what can be done to effectively and safely address chronic pain?
For example, mixing gabapentinoids (a class of medications available to treat nerve pain) with alcohol or other drugs is also known to worsen the risk of self-harm. In addition, taking other medications with gabapentin may increase the risk of physical and behavioral side effects.
There are other, more effective ways to manage your pain, and various non-opioid pain treatments are available. These include over-the-counter pain medications, physical therapy, acupuncture, and massage. Some people may also find relief with meditation or relaxation techniques.
A comprehensive approach to the treatment of alcohol addiction, which considers chronic conditions like chronic pain, is necessary to treat both to improve quality of life effectively.
Author: Jullietthe Santamaria
Published by: International Pain Foundation, iPain Blog, TeamiPain
