Health Conditions
Many chronic health conditions, such as infections, heart and liver disease, stroke and chronic pain are linked to alcoholism and drug addiction. The alcohol and drug addiction may cause the health condition, make the issue worse or impair judgment in situations that could lead to contracting an infection, such as Hepatitis C or HIV. Addiction treatment for people with these chronic health conditions must be multidisciplinary and done in a setting where all healthcare providers are working as a team.
HIV or AIDS
HIV is the virus that leads to AIDS. Although there have been great advances in suppressing the virus, having HIV requires chronic, intensive treatment and there is no cure. Learn how those with addiction have a higher rate of developing this health condition and a lower rate of successful suppressive treatment and treatment of opportunistic infections.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a chronic health condition that includes pain that lasts beyond the healing of an injury, continues for a period of several months or longer, or occurs frequently for months on end. Physicians often prescribe opiate-based medications for chronic pain, which can lead to drug addiction or alcoholism. Find out how those with an active addiction to alcohol or drugs do not respond favorably to medical treatment for this chronic health condition.
Alcoholism and Cirrhosis of the Liver
Cirrhosis is permanent liver damage caused by scar tissue. The two major causes of cirrhosis are excessive consumption of alcohol and certain forms of viral hepatitis, linking health conditions and addiction. This section describes how alcohol and drug addiction and cirrhosis are related and offers suggestions for drug and alcohol abuse treatment for those with liver disease or cirrhosis.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a chronic liver infection caused by a virus that scars the liver, causes inflammation and prevents proper liver function. Alcoholics and drug addicts have a higher rate of infection with hepatitis C and respond poorly to treatment. There are facilities that can treat both your addiction and chronic health condition.
Heart Disease and Stroke
Drug and alcohol abuse can damage the heart and cardiovascular system, leading to heart attack and stroke. Addiction puts great strain on the heart and blood vessels and stopping drug and alcohol use can help reverse and avoid further damage.
Looking For Treatment?
If you are struggling with addiction and serious health issues, Recovery Connection can help get you the addiction treatment you need. Call 866-812-8231 and speak with one of our trained coordinators. They can help answer your questions about drug addiction, alcoholism and treatment, as well as help you sort out insurance questions. If you are ready to manage your health issues without the addiction, call now.
24/7 all conversations are confidential