Did the pain get better?

Question

Hi. I have fibromyalgia, herniated discs in my back and neck. I have had this for the last eight years, I'm currently 33. I used hydrocodone in the beginning not so often just here and there. My pain got worse so I had to use it everyday but never went over my dosage. That was three years ago and this is today. I constantly take more then I'm suppose to and run out. I refuse to buy off the street so I endure withdraw until I see my doctor again. Yesterday I had it and decided to quit for good. I'm done using this stuff it breaks my heart that I even started taking it. My prescription was 7.5/325 and for the last 3 years I would take 6 one day or even up to 10. However, I have been taking these things for a total of eight years. How long do you think it was take to detox and get back to myself again. I'm on day 2 and my doctor gave me .5mg of ativan for anxiety. So far I feel sluggish and achey. I do still take mobic, flexeril and topamax for my fibromyalgia. Anything can give me would be great. Thank you!!

Klj_82 · Answer

Thank for getting back to me and definitely will be posting again.

jugglin · Answer

Welcome to MH!  Your story is similar to many...started with legit pain and rx and before you know it, running out early.  I also refused to buy off the street (only because I was worried I would get caught), but realized I was an addict to those pills.  Pill counting, stressing about running out, waiting for refill. 

We all react differently to WD (withdraw) depending on our health, age, amount we used, how long we used.  Typically, you can expect nasty flu-like symptoms for 4-5 days.  Then you may slowly start to feel better.  Sleep and energy take a bit longer to come back.  I would stock up on Imodium, Gatorade or make lemon-water to stay hydrated, Epsom salts for as many very hot Epsom salt baths a day that you can get, vitamins.  

Some folks feel physically "normal" after 2 weeks, others don't get to feeling normal til their sleep/energy stabilizes.  Please keep in mind that your brain will need time to heal as well.  You may find your emotions all over the board...totally normal.

While the WD's are scary....the truth is that the really tough part is the mental side.  The cravings...the crazy emotions.  Since you found yourself abusing your pills, now is a good time to start checking into aftercare.  NA/AA, Celebrate Recovery, SMART Recovery, church, counseling.  

So happy you made your way to MH.  Continue to post any questions or just when you need to vent...there is tons of wonderful support here.

Wishing you the very best!