withdrawal from fentanyl, after surgery

[cat9841]

I was given the fentanyl patch for extream pain last summer. I had spinal fusion surgery on Dec 20th, almost 2 months ago. I took off the patch and went through what I call a week from hell. I was shaking and going through the withdrawl for 8 days. I am now on day 15 still am having a few panic attacks like I think the withdrawals will come back, I know in my head they can't. I so much want my normal life back. anyone there had this spinal fusion?? how long will it take till I am normal??

[GoingToMakeIt]

Fentanyl is a tough one. you are doing good. Keep hanging on.

[toxictome]

Haven't had the surgery or the patch....but you are doing an awesome job!!!
It takes awhile to get back to normal...hang in there..it will come!!!
CONGRATS on DAY 15!!!!

[FLaddict]

What you are going through is very normal. When opiates are used for pain (or recreation) our brain chemistry is heavily affected. Neurotransmitters that control our mood, sleep, appetite, energy, ect are decreased while we are taking the pain meds. when we stop using them these things have to go back to working normally again. That takes time to heal. The best thing you can do right now is eat right, exercise however you can, even 15 min walks will help your endorphins start pumping again. And keeping doing what you are doing. 15 days is a great start to getting your life back.

[cat9841]

thanks so much, you just don't know how much having a reply helps in the healing process. I think the dr should have warned me or helped me more with this drug thing. the first thing he wanted to do was put me on the patch again, no way.
thanks again
CAT

[worried878]

Yes...have had a spinal fusion but they did not give me a fentanyl patch...just a scrip foor lortabs but that was back when I did not have a problem...the weaknessand spasms were worse for me than any actual pain...have you tried nuscle relaxers and anti-inflammatories....where was your fusion   mine was c-5,6,7

[watermom]

Oh yes...do try and walk.  I am on day 5 and have walked for 2 days....it has really helped.  GOODLUCK to you and keep posting.  This is a great place.  

[cat9841]

what about me still on viocoden, will I become addiced to that now, I am taking 6-8 a day for the surgery pain, o, and to worried, since you have had the surgery, did you have this butt and tail bone pain, its so uncomfortable.