Archive for the ‘Radicular Syndrome’ Category
Painkiller abuse and addiction
Prescription drug abuse is the use of a medication without a prescription, in a way other than as prescribed, or for the experience or feelings elicited. (www.drugabuse.gov) Many patients are hesitant to take opioid medications and many healthcare providers are hesitant to prescribe them, for fear of the patient becoming addicted. In order to reduce the risk of a patient becoming addicted to painkillers, doctors should screen patients for risk factors of addiction, including family history of drug abuse, abuse, neglect, past trauma or mental illness. Physicians should also monitor patients for signs of painkiller abuse and addiction.
Signs of painkiller abuse or addiction include:
- Frequent requests for refills
- Neglecting responsibilities and/or abandoning hobbies
- Drug use causing problems in relationship
- Built up tolerance to medication
- Taking medication to avoid or relieve withdrawal symptoms
- Loss of control over medication use
- Bloodshot eyes, pupils larger or smaller than usual
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Mood swings, irritability, lethargy
Preventing prescription painkiller abuse
If your doctor has prescribed painkillers to treat your chronic pain, take steps to ensure you are using the medication appropriately. Always follow the directions for use on the label of the medication, be aware of potential interactions with other drugs you may be taking, and never stop taking or change the dosage of a prescription painkiller without the direction of your physician.
Before you begin taking any medications, inform your doctor of any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary and herbal supplements you are currently taking.
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Radicular Syndrome, Radicular Syndrome syndrome results in pain and other symptoms such as numbness,
Description of Radicular Syndrome
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Radicular pain syndrome results in pain and other symptoms such as numbness, tingling and weakness in the arms or legs. It is caused by compressed or hurt irritated nerve roots. The nerve roots are branches of the spinal cord that carry signals out to the rest of the body at each level along the spine process. Radicular pain syndrome is often caused by direct pressure from a herniated disc or degenerative changes in the spine that cause irritation and inflammation of the nerve roots. Sensory symptoms are more common than motor symptoms, and muscle weakness is usually a sign that the nerve compression is more severe. The quality and type of pain resulting from radicular syndrome can vary, from dull, aching and difficult to localize, to sharp and burning.
Screening and Diagnosis of Radicular Syndrome
The proper pain related diagnosis for radicular syndrome begins with a complete physical examination from a https://www.becomepainfree.com/ doctor of the neck, back, arms and lower extremities. Your doctor will look for any problems with flexibility, muscle strength, sensation and reflexes. X-rays may be indicated to show the bony anatomy of the spine. An MRI study/scan or a CT scan may also be ordered. An MRI scan is useful in showing compression of nerve roots by giving a detailed picture of soft tissue structures. A CT scan is often used to evaluate the bony anatomy in the spine, which can show how much space is available for the nerve roots and spinal cord within the spinal canal. Early on, in mild situations, imaging studies may not be required.
Treatments for Radicular Syndrome
Physical therapy, chiropractic manipulation, patient education and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication are the most common non-invasive treatment options for most patients with no evidence of significant muscle weakness caused by radicular syndrome. Epidural steroid injections may also be considered for severe cases. As discussed earlier, muscle weakness is a concerning sign of nerve root compression or radicular syndrome. Nerve testing (electromyograpthy or EMG) may be indicated to objectively test the condition of the nerve-muscle connection, particularly if strength testing is limited by pain. If a patient suffers from actual nerve injury, surgery may be indicated to relieve the pressure on the nerves. In other situations, surgery may be offered if the non-surgical treatment options have failed to improve the symptoms of radicular syndrome. It is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor in deciding which treatment, if any, may be best for you.
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