Addiction and Health Issues

Many health issues, such as infections, heart and liver disease, stroke, and chronic pain are linked to alcoholism and drug addiction. The alcohol and drug addiction can either cause the health issue, make the health issue worse, or impair judgment in situations that could lead to contracting an infection, such as Hepatitis C or HIV. Addiction treatment for individuals with these health issues must be multidisciplinary and done in a setting where all healthcare providers are working as a team.

Addiction and HIV or AIDS
HIV is the virus that can ultimately lead to AIDS. Although there have been great medical advances in suppressing the HIV virus, having HIV requires chronic, intensive treatment, and there is currently no cure. Learn how those with addiction have a higher rate of infection with the HIV virus, and a lower rate of successful suppressive treatment and treatment of opportunistic infections.

Addiction and Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is 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 favorably respond to medical treatment for chronic pain.

Addiction, 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 over a number of years and certain forms of viral hepatitis. This section describes how alcohol and drug addiction and cirrhosis are related and offers suggestions for drug and alcohol abuse treatment for those who suffer from liver disease or cirrhosis.

Addiction Treatment and Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a chronic liver infection caused by a virus (HCV) that scars the liver, causes inflammation, and prevents proper liver function. Alcoholics and those addicted to drugs have a higher rate of infection with hepatitis C and respond poorly to the treatment of hepatitis C. There are facilities that can treat both conditions simultaneously.

Addiction, 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 suffering from addiction and serious health issues, Recovery Connection can help get you the addiction treatment you need. Call and speak with one of our trained coordinators. They can help answer many of 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.