Vicodin along with virtually every other addictive substance can produce a wide array of significant physical complications especially when it is abused. When Vicodin is used as prescribed by a licensed doctor it is considered to be an effective pain reliever. However, when it is used without a prescription or the prescription is not adhered to, it is considered to be abuse. Some of the physical complications that can potentially occur when Vicodin is abused can include the following:
- Respiratory problems
- Liver damage
- Liver failure
- Kidney damage
- Difficulty urinating
- Ringing in the ears
- Chills and fever
- Bone and muscle pain
- Nausea and vomiting
All of these physical complications of abusing Vicodin can be potentially dangerous especially if Vicodin is mixed with other substances. Abusing Vicodin can also lead to more significant physical complications that can be potentially life threatening and they include the following:
- Dependence – A physical and even psychological dependence on Vicodin can develop soon after the abuse begins. Dependence occurs when the body adapts to the intake of an increasing amount of a foreign substance such as Vicodin. The body begins to make Vicodin a necessary part of normal everyday functioning. In turn if the Vicodin intake is reduced or discontinued the body begins to experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and lead to potentially dangerous situations.
- Addiction – Vicodin is a highly addictive substance and addiction can develop with ease if the substance is abused. Addiction is a life consuming problem that can lead to numerous losses such as job, income, home, assets, social stature, relationships, health, and life. Addiction possesses a person and forces them to obsess over the drug and omit all other responsibilities in life. Addiction to Vicodin can be difficult to overcome and costly to get professional help for.
- Overdose – Consuming too much Vicodin at one time can cause an overdose which can be potentially fatal. Addiction can ultimately lead to an overdose if help is not received. In some cases an overdose can cause a person to slip into a coma and cause potential brain damage. Vicodin works by suppressing the central nervous system so if it is mixed with another CNS depressant such as alcohol the likelihood of an overdose significantly increases. If the central nervous system is depressed enough the body will shut down by stopping the heart and cutting off oxygen, generally resulting in death.
Seeking out and receiving immediate professional help to treat problems with Vicodin abuse is essential to avoiding these potentially life threatening side effects. In patient treatment at a licensed and professional rehab facility that specializes in treating Vicodin addiction can provide the best recovery results.
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