Serious Illness & Addiction

A serious disease like cancer can pose an additional risk for someone in recovery, no matter how long they’ve been clean.

The “C” word: Cancer. For the average person that diagnosis is scary enough. But for someone in recovery from a drug or alcohol addiction, it raises additional concerns.

“During the course of cancer treatment, it is possible for patients to develop substance abuse problems,” Mesothelioma.com says. “Generally patients with a history of substance abuse are much more vulnerable than patients who have not had substance abuse problems concerning drugs prescribed as part of their chemotherapy treatment regimen.”

Those in recovery have to be hyper-vigilant when injury or illness requires them to take pain medication. Not only because the risk of addiction is high, but because any misuse or abuse of medication can hinder progress and slow the body’s ability to recover from medical treatment for their ailment. It can also create serious health concerns outside of the disease and create new obstacles for survivors.

Because of the risk of addiction, ALL cancer patients should carefully follow prescribed dosages of painkillers, live a healthy lifestyle and discuss any past addiction problems with their oncologists.

Addiction Help

If you or a family member is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call La Paloma at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.