Cocaine is a stimulant drug that is very addictive and harmful. Cocaine can be smoked, injected, or inhaled and affects the brain immediately. The brain rapidly releases dopamine, which causes pleasurable effects or a high and is associated with the potential for dependence and abuse. When levels of dopamine drop, withdrawal symptoms start. The unpleasant withdrawal symptoms can lead a person to use again and more frequently.
Cocaine and crack are the same drug, but come in different forms. Cocaine is a white powdery substance and crack is a crystallized form of cocaine. People who use cocaine can become addicted after the first time using. It is nearly impossible to end cocaine use without treatment.
Cocaine causes changes in the brain chemistry and behavioral abnormalities such as erratic behavior, psychotic symptoms, and new-onset of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH), cocaine use can cause increased irritability, restlessness, paranoia, and full-blown psychosis. The NIH also states, “There have been reports of intracerebral hemorrhage, or bleeding within the brain, and balloon-like bulges in the walls of cerebral blood vessels. Movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, may also occur after many years of cocaine use.“
Each person’s experience with cocaine is unique. The first time using cocaine will produce the most intense euphoric sensation. Cocaine use causes heart failure, respiratory issues, stroke, overdose, seizures and death.
Some of the physical symptoms of cocaine use include nosebleeds, insomnia, nasal damage, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, and nausea just to name a few. Other risks from cocaine use include blood borne infectious conditions, such as HIV or hepatitis C, which are related to the injection of cocaine and non-sterile needle use.
A number of factors contribute to an individual’s risk of addiction. Genetics play a huge role in drug addiction. Other factors to consider are physical or emotional trauma, peer pressure, family dynamics, stress, and personality traits. These characteristics contribute individually or in combination with other factors. Cocaine use puts a person at risk for relationship problems, job loss, financial troubles, and incarceration.
A person who uses cocaine is at high risk for using other drugs, post-traumatic stress, depressive disorders, and other mental health problems. If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, you are not alone. Recovery from cocaine addiction is possible with the right treatment. Get help today.
Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in addiction treatment and is located in a serene, remote, lush-green, oxygen enriched environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy and offers yoga and meditation for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204