This article talks about the rising numbers of women being affected by the opioid epidemic. "Historically, women experience more pain-related diseases and have an increased sensitivity to the perception of pain. With a higher prevalence of painful conditions such as fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, osteoporosis and joint inflammation, women are often prescribed opioid treatments to help reduce uncomfortable symptoms." Making more women susceptible to opioid abuse.
With this in mind, and talking about alternative treatments for pain that don't involve opioids. Do you all think women are exempt from this because of their higher prevalence for pain especially in certain conditions, like after birth? An along with that how can doctors help to lower the chances of opioid abuse among women suffering from painful conditions?
https://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/story/opinion/columnists/2018/04/21/guest-column-women-increasingly-affected-opioid-epidemic/515652002/
With the technology that we have available today and the wealth of resources devoted to research, I would hope that doctors are always looking for alternative methods of pain alleviation. I think that it is especially important for women who are experiencing pregnancy pains to have access to treatments that won't potentially harm their child.
ReplyDeleteThis puts a lot into perspective. There should be a deeper sense of urgency in finding alternatives for women experiencing this pain.
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