Tag Archives: digestive issues

Understanding Opiates and Digestive Pain Relief

A modern pharmacy setting where a pharmacist is carefully explaining opiate medications and their effects on digestive pain relief to a patient. The pharmacy has well-organized shelves with various prescription medications. The environment is bright and professional, emphasizing patient care and education.

Opiates are a class of drugs derived from the opium poppy plant, primarily used for their analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Common opiates include morphine, codeine, and oxycodone. While highly effective for pain relief, they come with a range of potential side effects, particularly concerning the digestive system.

The Effects of Opiates on the Body

Medical illustration showing how opiates affect the brain's neurotransmitters, highlighting areas responsible for pain relief and euphoria.

Opiates are a class of drugs naturally derived from the opium poppy plant. This plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its pain-relieving properties. The key alkaloids extracted from the opium poppy include morphine and codeine, which are used in various pharmaceutical formulations.

Understanding Pain Levels in Acupuncture Treatments

A modern acupuncture clinic with a practitioner gently placing a thin needle into the arm of a calm and relaxed patient, set in a serene environment with warm lighting, natural wooden furniture, and traditional Chinese decor

Before delving into pain levels, it’s crucial to understand what acupuncture entails. Acupuncture is a component of TCM, a comprehensive system of health care that has been practiced for thousands of years. The fundamental principle of acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital energy that circulates through pathways, known as meridians, in the body. By inserting needles at specific points along these meridians, acupuncturists aim to correct imbalances and promote the body’s natural healing processes.