Scared Sick

[Kolina]

Pheneran with codeine is not just a cough syrup so I have learned the hard way. I have been on this for the last 7 years off and on and then for the last 2 years almost consistantly for sleep. I started going through menopause when I was 32 and the biggest problem was I could not sleep. Here I am at age 46 and ran out of the Phenergan on Thursday and started being nauseated, body aches all over, sweating and chills. I started searching on google for codeine withdrawls and found this web site and realized I am going through withdrawls! How crazy is this? I don't ever want to take this again, but now I am scared that I won't be able to sleep and when do these symptoms end, and am I an addict?

[Missybuns]

hello welcome to the SoberRecovery community!

Honestly only you can answer the question "Am I an Addict" Narcotics Anonymous has an informational pamphlet out title just that, "am I an addict?"
http://www.na.org/admin/include/spaw.../IP/EN3107.pdf

that's where it is if you'd like to check it out online

Peace,
Missy

[KitKat1028]

Welcome, Kolina! Missybuns is right - I 2nd the suggestion that you take a look at some of the reading material available. I know when I first came back into recovery, my body went through all kinds of "adjustments" (pftt...really understated). I experienced disruptions in my sleep pattern, my appetite --- also, body aches and pains ---- my emotions were out of whack. I felt frustrated and angry with my self AND either short-tempered or on the verge of tears (depended on the moment) with everything else. That's my experience - The hope is that I made it through! I found refuge in meeting rooms where others seemed to know exactly what I was going through and it did help to know I wasn't alone. Slowly, my body seemed to adjust to "running on it's own" and I started to feel physically (and emotionally, by the way) better...more "normal" :0) For a long time, I didn't think it would be possible which is why I'm sharing this with you...it is possible for your body to heal. I wish you the best and again, welcome!

[Kolina]

Thanks KitKat,

It certainly feels good to know that I am not flipping out. How long did your body react? The internet says within 48 to 72 hours you should feel better. This is day 12 for me and my stomach is still a mess, I still don't sleep, I still feel sick at times, chills and stuff. I have good days and not so good days and it all seems like an eternity! I know it will get better, I really do believe that! I am just wondering how long it takes

Thanks again for the words of encouragement!

Aloha,
Kolina

[Kolina]

Hey Missy,

I had a friend who used to work at a substance abuse program here as a councelor ask me the questions that were on the web site to the link you provided. So I got my answer haha ! She is working with me and we meet once a week. Thanks for the link!

Aloha,
Kolina

[Kolina]

14 days with no codeine! I finally got some sleep last night! I have heard that the first 48 to 72 hours off the drug is the worst. I have learned that although that may be true, your body still craves it. My mind still wants it for so many reasons. This really becomes a battle of your mind.

I have surrounded myself with family and close friends who are standing with me and for me in prayer and encouragement. This is not a battle that should be done alone.

Angelgirl said it best: "Don't tell God how big your addiction is, tell your addiction how big your God is"

There is hope!

[Missybuns]

kolina, you are welcome.

It's a blessing you have family and friends ready, willing and praying in support of your recovery!

Keep posting. It's inspiring. To witness someone's recovery is such a privilege.

Sincerely,
Missy

[Kolina]

Thanks so much Missy, you have been a great help from day one! Please keep an eye on me and drop me lines it really encourages me!

[Missybuns]

you are most welcome and will do!

There is NA in your state, have you looked up any meetings near you?

[Kolina]

Hey Missy,

I was just counting the days, it has been 19 and counting! I am doing okay, for some reason Saturday was a very hard day for me, I was so moody and irritable. My husband just keeps on encouraging me and asking me what he can do to help. All I wanted was a chocolate milk shake! I guess that is better than wanting the codeine, although I do have those moments too, but happy to say not as many of those as days go by.

Yes, I have hooked up with a meeting, it is on Wednesdays and I have attended two so far!

Thanks a bunch Missy!

PS
I posted part of this in a new thread because I can't send you a private note yet...I am still not sure how to work this, am I supposed to post a new one each time or just keep added to my existing ones...