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Are Pain Medications Preventing You from Healing?

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We all know that pharmaceutical painkillers are much stronger than nearly anything you can find in nature. There’s no comparing cannabis, cloves, or magic mushrooms to powerful drugs like fentanyl and isotonitazene. So why are a growing number of people turning away from opioids in favor of milder treatment options? Aside from obvious safety issues with the former, the answer to that lies in part in how we, as a society, view pain in the first place.

Is pain something that should be immediately and completely masked, or are there some healing components to allowing our bodies to feel discomfort? Is our culture of hiding from anything that feels bad, keeping us in a perpetual state of illness?

Pain defined throughout history

Pain is not a condition in and of itself, but rather a symptom of many other diseases or disorders, indicating something is wrong with our bodies. Pain is incredibly complex and can vary significantly between people, even those who share similar illnesses or injuries. Pain can also range in severity, as well as in the way it’s felt. Some variations of pain can include pricking, tingling, stinging, burning, soreness, aching, and many other unpleasant sensations.

The entire spectrum of pain consists of hundreds of different types of disorders and syndromes. For instance, you can experience pain following an injury, or chronic pain related to aging. Pain can also be neurological, like migraines. Heart attacks, cancer, and childbirth all cause different forms of pain. When it comes to clinical diagnoses, healthcare providers typically group pain into one of two categories: acute or chronic. Acute pain comes on suddenly and intensely, and is usually the result of a traumatic injury or surgery.

Chronic pain persists over a longer period of time, and can be difficult to manage. Chronic pain affects very 50 million American adults, and it’s one of the most common reasons people seek medical care. Although some medical professionals consider chronic pain to be its own medical disease, there is always an underlying cause.

Again, pain is our natural warning sign that something is not right. The purpose of feeling pain is to change our course of actions – be it limiting certain activities, eating different foods, doing certain exercises, and so on. It’s remarkably specific in letting us know what activities will further aggravate an area, and in preventing us from doing said activities.


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What the research says

Pain is something that has long-confused physicians, so in an effort to better understand it, they started tracking their patients’ discomfort at all times. For a while, pain was even referred to as “the fifth vital sign”, officially declared so in 1999, but the move was met with great controversy and continues to be a point of contention in the healthcare industry to this day.

Regardless, the goal was for doctors to take more cognizance of pain because it can be an important factor in determining the overall health and mental state of a patient. The problem was that, the quest to gain a better understanding of pain eventually turned into a mission to mask pain entirely, not necessarily treat its root causes.

Some issues come along with masking pain, the most obvious being that if you don’t feel any pain, you may not take the correct actions to manage and heal your ailment, leading to further injury. Another problem that is rarely discussed, is the role of pain management medications in the actual treatment of pain. For a long time, it was commonly believed that pills helped, but recent studies show that many frequently used pharmaceuticals actually hinder the healing process.

It is well established in scientific literature that NSAIDs can impede the healing of broken bones, damaged ligaments, and other musculoskeletal tissues. Many surgeons many avoid suggesting or prescribing these medications because of the growing concern in how they negatively impact callus formation and decrease the activity of COX isoenzymes that decrease the synthesis of prostanoids.

Another drug of great controversy – opioids. How much are these incredibly dangerous drugs that have caused hundreds of thousands of overdose deaths over the last decade, even aiding in the healing process? Short answer, not very much at all – according to recent studies.

A study published in 2017 found that patients who were treating wounds with opioid doses over 10mg per day exhibited slower rates of healing than patients who took less than 10mg or none at all. Other studies have also suggested that opioid use may negatively impact wound healing by reducing immune activation, impacting tissue oxygenation and angiogenesis, and altering myofibroblast recruitment as well as impacting keratinocyte cytokine production, endothelial proliferation and angiogenesis.

Other drugs that can slow wound healing are cytotoxic antineoplastic and immunosuppressive agents, corticosteroids, and anticoagulants. Additionally, all drugs in the pain relief category can theoretically interfere with healing by masking pain and thus allowing you to continue to hurt yourself without immediately realizing it.

My personal experience with pain

To not sound completely tone-deaf here, I do understand that certain levels of pain can make life unbearable. I’ve been blessed in not having to experience chronic, debilitating pain personally, but I have had a handful of injuries and surgeries in my life that left me in pain or discomfort for a few weeks to a few months at a time.

I also suffer from frequent migraines and cluster headaches, which come on strong and fast. Normally, I try to take it easy, drink a lot of water, eat food, and avoid smoking until it goes away. Admittedly, I’ll pop an Excedrin occasionally if I don’t have time to tend to naturally, but I try to avoid that as the regular use of any acetaminophen-based drug can cause significant damage to the body, particularly the liver.

Right now, I’m drawing from my experience of giving birth, comparing how it went when I received epidural versus a natural birth. First, it’s important to note that babies whose mothers receive an epidural are more likely to develop respiratory distress syndrome once the child is born. Epidural anesthetic is sometimes combined with opioid drugs as well, which can cross the placenta and add to the risk of developing respiratory depression.

Babies who have are exhibiting such problems likely end up going to the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). While staying in the NICU may not seem harmful on the surface, it means that mother and baby are separated immediately after birth. And when you use epidural, you can’t move your legs for a couple of hours after giving birth, so if the baby is not in the same room with you, that’s even longer spent away from them during their first moments on this earth, and this can have profound effects on the emotional and physical well-being of both baby and mom.

This is what happened to me when I gave birth to my first son with epidural. The labor was about 10 hours, I had to be put on oxygen at numerous points during the process, and my baby was born with some breathing issues that made it difficult for him to breathe through his nose while eating. He was taken to NICU right away, but even while there he had issues for a couple of weeks. At one point during a feeding, he stopped breathing completely for a few seconds and turned blue, it was the most terrifying thing I’ve ever experienced.

Were these issues causes by the epidural? It’s hard to say, but very possible. Especially when comparing that ordeal to the birth of my second son, which was done completely naturally. No problems during the labor which last less than one hour from start to finish, baby had absolutely no issues, and we were discharged in about 1 day.

In my opinion, that’s very telling of the types of complications that can arise when unnecessary medical intervention is at play.

Final thoughts

Pain management is a complicated and sensitive subject for many people, patients and medical professionals alike. Pharmaceuticals have their place in modern medicine, but it’s important to take a closer look at their overall role in treating pain over the long term. These recent discoveries place greater importance on treating the root causes of pain, in order to get patients off their medications as quickly as possible.

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All The Ways To Consume Cannabis

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Unlike alcohol – cannabis can be consumed in a ton of different ways – here is a quick overview

Marijuana has become mainstream and popular with over 85% of population believing it should be legal in some form. One of the things as weed “comes out the closet” is a the entry of a bunch of new users and former “closet smokers”. These new consumers  are being more open and curious.  The legal market is also opening a variety of way for more people to try different ways to imbibe.  It is all a journey, some ways are for more experienced veterans, others are ok for you very first time.

Here is all the ways to consume cannabis and the basics around the method.

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Smoking And Vaping

The most popular form of consumption is smoking, vaping, or otherwise inhaling marijuana via the lungs. It is one of the quickest way to feel its effects. Users feel euphoria envelop them within minutes of consumption.  You can do old school with joints or store bought pre-rolls.  Bongs and bowls are options. Vaping is almost rivaling smoking and is just as quick in effects but much more discreet. You can purchase vapes for a one time use or invest in system you can reload time and time again.

RELATED: Differences In Marijuana Highs: Flowers, Edibles and Concentrates

Edibles

Edibles include baked goods, candies, mints, oils, cannabutter, and  some random things like soups, sauces and other. The second most popular edible is chocolate as its fatty content allows it to be absorbed better. Edibles take from 30 to 90 minutes from the time you consume. The reason is the way it is processed by the body. It is advised to wait until you can actually feel the effects before deciding to add more.

While the effects of consuming edibles takes longer to kick in, the feeling also lasts hours longer than smoking cannabis. Like vapes, they have a no smell which is a nice, discreet benefit. And they are easy to transport and store.

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Gummies

According to BDSA, an analytical company which covers cannabis, 49% of people who consume cannabis have done a gummy.  Easy to carry and having no smell, they are good for a quick take. Usually in a 5 mg, you can microdose or manage a low level high.  Like most edibles, they take between 20-60 minutes to kick in. Although Wana Brands have premiered Calm which is suppose to hit in under 15 minutes.

RELATED: Marijuana Dabs 101: A Guide to Your First Time

Sublingual

This refers a cannabis-based substance consumed by the placement under the tongue and includes tinctures, sprays, tablets and strips. It has rapid absorption rate with consumers feeling it within 15 minutes.

Beverages

With beer and liquor companies in the marijuana industry, there is a whole slew of cannabis beverages on the market.  Beer like, juices and other flavors are all available. Like other edibles, this can take between 15-60 minutes to take effect.  This is one area were hemp beverages have rivaled marijuana in potency.

Concentrates

Also known as wax, shatter, dabs and more, this form is not for the beginner. It normally contain extraordinarily high THC levels ranging from 40 to 80 percent THC amounts. This can be up to four times stronger in THC content than high grade or top shelf marijuana, which normally measures around 20 percent THC levels.  When consumed through this method,the user can feel the effects immediately.

And

Cannabis suppositories are mainly used by medical patients. Cannabis has been found to be effective at reducing pain, and cannabis suppositories can provide fast-acting relief for menstrual cramps and other types of pelvic pain.

Finding a preferable method to consume cannabis is always a personal choice.



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5 Best Ways to Break The Doomscrolling Habit

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It is hard to avoid some of the negative news lately, but too much can be rough for you…here is some help to not get trapped with Doomscrolling

In the past, it was fairly easy to avoid constant bad news.  But in today’s tech  media world, it is difficult. Not only do you have legit news companies, you have clickbait and it seems tons of people feel to share their every thought on everything on social media.  What happened to sharing happy cat photos? Getting trapped in the rabbit hole of doomscrolling can truly mess with your mind.

Doomscrolling is getting trapped in scrolling bad news and not able to break away. Constant or frequent doomscrolling can wreck havoc on your mental health and/or your mood.  It reinforces negative thoughts and feelings. If you already trend toward depression or anxiety or are working through a mental health issue, it can exacerbate the issue.  Doomscrolling can increase these issue far beyond expectations. Often it lead to irritability, lack of productivity, poor concentration and mental fatigue.

Here are the 5 best ways to break the dommscrolling habit.

Photo by Helena via rawpixel.com

Set boundaries

Some people want to see the news, what’s happening and just browse online. The issue is when the boundaries are ignored and you spend large amounts of time in a negative space.  In addition, with algorithms, you are fed more pieces around your focus. Thus, the more bad news you read, the more you will receive. It can make it seem there is nothing doom news.  It is important to set boundaries. Set a limit to scroll news for 20 minutes and look at at least X articles on positive/interesting news during the period.  At first it may seem hard, but it will help with perspective and change up your feed.

Seek good news

If you’re having a tough time staying away from social media, make sure you engage in positive things whenever you’re scrolling. Follow happy, interesting, enlightening accounts which lift you up and puts you in touch with things you enjoy. Start following your hobby or passion.  There seems to be an endless supply on Lego, cooking, pets and more online.

RELATED: 5 Tips That Can Help You Start Meditating Successfully

Limit triggers

If politics are making you anxious, try blocking these topics for a time, at least until you’re in a better headspace to consume them. Use all of the tools at your disposal – block push notifications, mute people who get intense on social media and avoid topics which rile you. One effective method of filtering out news is to subscribe to a newsletter and use it as your main source of information.

RELATED: 8 Ways to Enjoy Marijuana Without Smoking It

Socialize

Live interaction can totally change your mood. Even a 5 minute call or a short walk can lift your spirits and improve your mental health. The interaction engages parts of your mind which can calm your anxiety.  Talking with a live friend promotes a sense of belong and security and helps balance your

Meditate

If you’re feeling too caught up in negative feelings and need something to recenter yourself, try meditating. Use a guided app and disconnect from screens for a session which hopefully makes you feel present and can prevent you from going to an anxious place.



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Marijuana MicroDosing Can Improve Mundane Tasks

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Some things in life can’t be avoid – and seem to suck the fun out of a day…but maybe a little cannabis can help!

Mowing the grass, brainstorming, exercise, and other everyday tasks just seem to suck the life out of a day – especially the precious weekend Saturday and Sundays. Not only are they mundane, but they have to be done…over and over again over the course of your life. What about making them more fun, engaging and pouring some happiness into every day tasks? Marijuana microdosing can improve mundane tasks to the point of enjoyment.

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

Microdosing cannabis may be a beneficial way to achieve a relaxed, yet focused high. The sativa strain tends to energize and uplift and can place you into a state of timelessness, effortlessness, euphoria, and single-minded focus. Microdosing cannabis can help boost creativity, mood and productivity.  Consider about 2.5 mg to start – which is about half a gummy or a puff or two from a vape.

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Household Chores

From laundry and folding clothes to cleaning the fridge, these are must do activities to facilitate day to day life.  Sometimes mindless, it is easy to slip into boredom trying to match an endless supply of socks or cleaning the oven.  A little sativa can add not only energy but a bit of creativity in these tasks.  You might be startled by how vacuuming can become fun!

Outdoor Chores

Mowing the grass goes down as the more boring job.  Around 76% report their lawn is mowed at least every other week. What a dull routine and pattern, add in edging, weeding and other garden task and you can find yourself in a bi-weekly loop of boredom. Pop a gummy and you reimagine your garden again and again.  The same for washing and cleaning the car or garage. And you end with a strong sense of satisfaction.

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Exercise

Some people do not get the natural home people who enjoy physical activity enjoy. Some see it as a health or physical appearance reason and it can be a little dull.  Trendmills, stationary bikes, walks, runs and more tend to be a set period of time which can get a bit dull day after day.  Maybe mix it up with a little cannabis and put a little pep into the set.

Additionally, cannabis has been proven to have properties that not only aid in the recovery from working out, but also in the actual performance of certain activities. Studies have shown the plant’s ability to decrease anxiety and act as a bronchodilator increasing airflow to the lungs. Moreover, as one study found, “cannabinoids are potent anti-inflammatory agents.”

Brainstorm

Whether you’re writing a book, managing work project for your team at work, or organizing  your family or friend life, the ability to think strategically and creatively is critical to being productive. Sometimes you can get stuck in a rut, a little time, weed, and space allows you a fresh, creativity perspective.  While 80% may not work – 20% might be something you can build which could make life better.

RELATED: People Who Use Weed Also Do More Of Another Fun Thing

For some, consuming weed allows the brain the work in a different mechanism, fueling creativity and crashing through any persisting roadblocks. So the next time you are stuck, try stepping away for a few minutes to imbibe and return to the situation with a new perspective.

Studying


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There’s no excuse for not taking advantage of the plethora of high quality free education available online these days. Whether you’d like to learn more about computer science or classic literature, the tools are online and in some cities in person.



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