I have refused to take opioids for short term pain control because I don't *know* my vulnerability.

I also have an amazing tolerance for pain...and an amazing lack of tolerance for the side effects of painkillers.

I went through surgery last year without opioids, but not everyone *can*. I have shocked healthcare providers by how little pain medication I use.

We're all different, and while I do advocate that you should take opioids only if you need them...

When I had all four wisdom teeth removed, I had myself knocked out because of severe dental anxiety.

A nurse made a really serious attempt to get my husband to give me a vicodin when I was not able to consent, and continued to press even after he told her that I had specifically said no opioids. She told him he was guaranteeing that I would be in extreme pain when I finally came all the way around.

I didn't take a single painkiller, even over the counter, because the pain was MAYBE a 2 at worst.

I suspect my 2 is somebody else's 7 or 8.

Opioids are an incredibly useful tool and I worry about my friends who ARE chronic pain patients and DO need them, but I'm fortunately made in such a way that I don't need them.