I had sustained two spinal fusions, L 3,4,5,S1, Failed Back Syndrom. I have been on morphine every day for the last five years lately my perscriptions have not arrived on time from my treating physician and I have become so angry with his staff that he said he would not see me as a patient any more. I asked for a referal to another Pain Management Clinic, from one hospital to another. The new pain management clinic had said that before they could schedual an appointment they requested that I see their staff Psychiatrist , why do you think that is? I am a graduate student in the field of Psychology and I feel I am educated and aware of my anger but what are they thinking when their are interruptions in morphine meds, dosent't the body crave this med and when not given it on a regular basis dosen't pain manifest itself as anger? Isn't this a normal Flight or Fight response? ESL
Dear Don,
Morphine is an opiod, which is used to treat pain. When used as an analgesic it rarely becomes addictive. When the user is not in pain, they feel euphoric with a heighten sense of self. After frequent use it may become an addiction.
The symptoms of Morphine withdrawl may start with anxiety, restlessness, than muscle pain, chills, headache, later insomnia, loss of energy and appetite.
I am unsure of what you should do, but showing suppport and care may be helpful for her.
Best Wishes to you and your girlfriend.
HFHS M.D.-SW