Rock bottom

[LisaM530]

I guess this is where I begin. I don't know how else to do this. Several years ago, I was prescribed vicodin for a toothache. Then another script for another toothache- you get the idea. Eventually I became dependant on them to just get out of bed and make it through the day. Here I am about 5-6 years later, and still taking them. I take what I can get which can on some days be up to 8- (yellow) 1,000's, but on average- about 7- 750's a day. I am way too ashamed to talk about it, and I CANT go to a doctor and just explain this, as I have way too much riding on anyone 'finding out'. The reason I am here today started out simple enough. I simply didn't have any and started (am) experiencing withdrawls. I started reading around online looking for anything related to overcoming  vicodin withrawl, and that's how I found this site. Yesterday, I had NO desire to quit. After reading around, and feeling what I am feeling now, I think I'm ready. This is the first time in all these years I have ever even entertained the thought of quitting. Im maybe even a little enthusiastic- but I'm terrified. Taking vicodin has been the only thing I have known for so long, I don't know if I can do it.
Is there anything I can do to subside the withdrawl symptoms that doesnt involve doctors or 'outing' myself? I want to be normal again. Thank you in advance <3

[Allicat0117]

The mental part will come so be aware..don't let it slap you in the face. You are staying strong!! Keep posting...and take the advice about calling your friend to tell her you have quit. Keep on puttting one step in front of the other and you will get there!!!

[mom_of_two136]

Hey Lisa! How are you today? I was just thinking of you and hoping you are staying strong. You can do this. I know how tough it can be but in just a few days the worst will be over (physically). Try to walk when you can. It really helps. And drink lots of water to stay hydrated. I am sending my prayers you way. Best Wishes
Lisa

[LisaM530]

Thanks for thinking of me. My optimism is wearing off because I've run into a minor setback. Yesterday, I had the worse toothache of my life. I took my sons to the Whitesox game, so I HAD to try to get by. Ibuprofin was/is dulling the pain but it WONT stay away and I'm up to about 20 a day. My uncle gave me a Norco [sp] just in case. It sat in my pocket untouched for 24 hours, but I ended up taking it about an hour ago. I feel guilty. I forgot how much I missed it and remember now HOW i got addicted. No pain right now, but I know it will be coming back and hubby feels bad for me so he has offered to get me a few more. I told him no, I'll tough it out. Almost 5 days without vic's... only to end up back where I started. Or did I? I mean, it was only one and I didn't take it because I WANTED it. Will I have to go through the w/d symptoms again?
One more question if anyone can help. If I go to a doc, is there any type of pain pill that I can take in moderation that doesn't 'remind me' of vicodin?

[wanttobeclean]

I'm sorry you are having such a bad problem with your teeth.  One pill shouldn't set you back,..look at it as a bump in the road.  But you really need to committ to this fully, or the next toothache will bring another vic or another norco and then another and another. Has the dentist said why you have such bad toothaches?  Try to get it fixed once and for all...even if it means a root canal or getting the tooth pulled.  Unfortunately, aside from tylenol or NSAIDS like motrin and Aleve, pretty much every other pain med is some kind of opiate. IMHO, it is WAY too early to start re-introducing an opiate.of any kind.

Good luck!    

[mom_of_two136]

Hey Lisa. I hope you are staying strong and hope your pain is better. I know how it is to suffer from tooth pain. I do not know what you can take that will help besides otc. I just wanted to offer my support and hope you are staying postive. Hope today is a better day for you. Try to stay busy to keep your mind off of it as much as possible.
Best Wishes
Lisa

[LisaM530]

Hi Lisa :)
My tooth pain seems to have subsided for the last few days. I'm hoping the nerve died {for now anyway}. Day 7, I'm getting a little more energy back, no more w/d symptoms with the exception of a little fatigue & CRAVINGS as of yesterday. That really ***** too, because I thought I wouldn't have that problem.
I think the main reason for that is because of all the calls I've gotten from people leaving voicemails telling me they have them. My hubby has called them back & let them know what I'm going through, so they won't be calling back. But just knowing they are there.... that's hard. I keep telling myself 'just one or two here and there won't hurt', but I quickly push away those thoughts. I KNOW they will hurt. I've come too far to let these pills take over my body again. Also I want to mention that my brother & his wife are also addicted to opiates. My brother said I'm inspiring him to quit and he's gone 24 hours so far. I talked to him this morning & he's in a world of hurt. He said he'd rather be on them and happy again instead of off them and miserable. I'm doing my best to coach him, and that's also been a sobering experience for me. My sister in law is going to 'quit' when her kids get out of school, and I'll be keeping them at my house while she goes through the worse. Not sure why I'm typing all this out, it just helps me feel better to have an anonomous place to let it all out.