The first on the list of possible relapse warning signs is when one stops taking prescribed medications. If your doctor has prescribed you a medication there is a good chance you need it. If you are considering discontinuing your medication it is suggested that you consult your doctor first. You might be able to stop, but contacting him or her first is customary.
There are times of course when a patient might have recently gone through a prescription drug detox and they could be feeling better. They might have been given a medication to help alleviate withdrawal pains associated with drug or alcohol cessation. Withdrawal symptoms like:
- Emotional Symptoms; anxiety, restlessness, irritability, insomnia, headaches, poor concentration, depression, and social isolation;
- Physical Symptoms; sweating, racing heart, palpitations, muscle tension, tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing, tremors, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea;
- Dangerous Symptoms; grand mal seizures, heart attacks, strokes, hallucinations, and delirium tremens.
Withdrawal medications help us go through this experience almost pain free. One of the key reasons addicts continue to use, besides being addicts of course, is because the withdrawal symptoms are so painful.
So, what’s the problem? Well, sometimes people feel great, they feel strong, and they feel clear headed. The patient sets the medications aside before the withdrawal symptoms have run their course, and suddenly they find themselves in a full blown withdrawal and not understanding what’s happening. It is a familiar pain and many reach for what is most familiar to them….drugs or alcohol.
If you find yourself in a relapse and need help, contact Pat Moore Foundation. We have counselors on staff that can help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.