If you’ve been paying attention to the news over the last several months, you’re probably aware of the opioid epidemic in the United States. The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that at least 115 people in the country die from an opioid overdose every day. Now, new information suggests that opioid overdoses may also be a factor in the cardiac deaths of some people.
Cardiac Death Study
Researchers recently looked at the medical records of more than 900 people who died as the result of an apparent cardiac arrest. Of the cases that actually met the conditions established by the World Health Organization for a sudden death caused by cardiac arrest, approximately 1 in 7 of the victims had high levels of opioids in their system—enough to be considered “hidden” overdoses. 61 percent had deadly levels in their blood.
Researchers say the findings indicate that there is a need for a more precise description of what constitutes a cardiac death. In addition, they indicate that the statistics for cardiac deaths as well as drug overdose deaths may be inaccurate.
More About the Opioid Epidemic
So, how did our country find itself in an opioid epidemic? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) says that the problem started back in the late 90s. Pharmaceutical companies sold opioids to medical providers saying that they were not addictive. Because they are effective for pain relief and doctors had been assured they were safe, they started prescribing them at a greater rate. With opioids readily available, people began misusing them. By the time it was clear that opioids are highly addictive, the problem was already widespread.
Now, opioid addiction and overdose are so prevalent that opioid misuse has been declared a national crisis. The statistics surrounding the problem are alarming. HHS shares the following statistics from 2016:
- 11.5 people improperly used opioids.
- 42,249 people died from an opioid overdose.
- 2.1 million people were addicted to opioids.
- Opioid use cost the United States $504 billion.
If your aging relative is prescribed opioids, senior care can help them to avoid taking too much. Although senior care providers cannot dispense medications to their clients, they can remind older adults when it is time to take them. Senior care can also monitor the person to ensure they take the proper dosage. In addition, senior care providers can make sure that the older adult is not taking their pain medications too often. Instead, they can help the person to manage pain using other methods until it is time for the next dose.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Health Care in Bel Air, CA, please call Mom's Home Care and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Our number is 323-244-4789
