Final answer:
Opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) is a condition where there is an increase in sensitivity to painful stimuli due to extended opioid usage, leading to more abdominal pain as opioid doses increase. OIH requires careful management and may necessitate a reduction in opioid use or a switch to alternative pain treatments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) is a centrally mediated disorder of gastrointestinal pain characterized by a paradoxical increase in abdominal pain with increasing doses of opioids. This phenomenon arises as a complication of opioid therapy, particularly in the context of pain management. OIH occurs because of complex neuroplastic changes in the central nervous system that lead to an increased sensitivity to painful stimuli.
The onset of OIH can be a challenge for both patients and healthcare providers because it can be mistaken for tolerance or a worsening underlying condition. Recognizing and managing OIH requires a reduction or cessation of opioid use, and in some cases, switching to non-opioid pain management strategies. It is essential to approach pain management with a comprehensive plan that accounts for the risks associated with opioid use, including the development of OIH, addiction, and misuse.