Pain is your body's signal that something isn't right. To help manage it, doctors often prescribe powerful opioids -- but they're not always the best option and can quickly lead to addiction. Illuminating the fine line between substance use and abuse, Dr. Jen Gunter explains what opioids do to your perception of pain, the risks they pose and the questions to ask your doctor about them. (For more on how your body works, tune in to her podcast, Body Stuff with Dr. Jen Gunter, from the TED Audio Collective.)

Jen Gunter: What you should know about opioids and painkillers

What you should know about opioids and painkillers

Opioids, though potent, aren't the pinnacle of pain relief; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs often surpass them in efficacy.

Physical dependence and the paradox of increased pain highlight the risks opioids pose, underscoring the need for cautious prescription.

Naloxone, a life-saving drug, should accompany opioid prescriptions to mitigate overdose risks, a critical safety net for users.