Prolonged drug and alcohol use can affect nearly every system in your body, making it harder to distinguish the effects of substance use from those of an underlying medical condition. Many people chalk up symptoms like fatigue, memory problems, weight loss or shortness of breath to stress or aging. Others...
Deciding to enter residential addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. For many people, the hardest part isn’t admitting they need help – it’s the uncertainty surrounding the experience. Once you walk through the door, will others there judge you? Will you receive a personalized treatment plan that accounts for your medical...
Prescription medications have transformed modern medicine. They help people recover from surgery, manage chronic pain, treat anxiety, improve sleep and control conditions like ADHD. When used appropriately, these drugs can be valuable tools for improving your health and quality of life. However, some prescription drugs also have the potential to...
While wrinkles, gray hair and stiff joints are natural parts of life, long-term substance use can accelerate many of the biological processes associated with aging, affecting everything from your brain and heart to your immune system and skeletal health. Whether you’re in your 20s or 70s, you should be aware...
When people think about the health consequences of addiction, they often picture damage to organs such as the brain, heart and liver. However, one of the most overlooked effects of long-term drug and alcohol use is its impact on the immune system. Your immune system is responsible for protecting you...
For many people, the Fourth of July is synonymous with backyard barbecues, beach trips, fireworks and leisure time with family and friends. Unfortunately, it’s also a holiday where alcohol is often front and center. If you’re in active recovery or trying to lead a healthier lifestyle, the constant presence...
Substance use disorders can reshape entire family dynamics, influencing how spouses, parents, children, siblings and close friends interact with one another. Many people spend enormous amounts of time and energy trying to help their struggling loved ones. While these efforts often come from a place of love and concern,...
Prescription pain medications have helped countless people recover from injuries, surgeries and chronic medical conditions. When used appropriately, these medications can provide welcome relief and improve quality of life. However, opioids and other controlled substances can also change brain chemistry in ways that can lead to dependence and addiction. Many...
