According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nearly 25,000 people died from an overdose that involved cocaine. With cocaine use on the rise, so is the need for effective cocaine addiction treatment. If you or someone you love is showing the warning signs of cocaine addiction, an addiction treatment program can help. To start your recovery journey, call Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient at 888.498.2376 today.
What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant drug. The powder form is typically snorted, but it can also be smoked or mixed with liquid and injected. Crack cocaine is a solid rock that is usually smoked. Rocks of cocaine may also be inserted into body orifices.
The substance is also called “coke” or “blow.” Cocaine transmits high levels of dopamine to the brain’s pleasure center to create intense feelings of euphoria and energy. Short-term use of the drug can cause anger, irritability, paranoia, and decreased appetite.
The health risks associated with frequent or long-term cocaine use include:
- Mood disorders
- Lung damage
- Headaches
- Convulsions or seizures
- Heart disease or heart attack
- Stroke
- Sexual dysfunction
- Bowel damage
- Dangerous spikes in blood pressure
- Damage to the reproductive system
Frequent cocaine use leads to physical dependence, addiction, and long-term changes in brain function.
In some cases, cocaine psychosis causes people to see or hear things that are not real. Paranoid delusions can lead to dangerous behaviors and violent outbursts. Cocaine psychosis is more common among those who smoke crack cocaine, but it can also affect those who use the powdered form of the drug.
Cocaine Addiction Symptoms
It can be difficult to notice the signs of cocaine abuse in the early stages, especially if the person normally has an upbeat, energetic personality. However, with time, the warning signs of cocaine abuse become more apparent.
If you’re concerned about your own drug use or that of someone else, watch for these cocaine addiction symptoms:
- Secretive behavior
- Unusual amounts of energy
- Financial problems
- Risk-taking behaviors
- Excessive talking or talking quickly
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bloodshot eyes or enlarged pupils
- Twitching muscles
- Mood swings or irritability
- Higher than usual levels of confidence
- Impotence (males)
- Frequent runny nose or nosebleeds
- Hypersensitivity to sound, sight, and touch
- The presence of cocaine paraphernalia, such as short straws for snorting or glass pipes
One of the most concerning symptoms of cocaine use is pain in the chest. Cocaine constricts the blood vessels, causing stress on the cardiovascular system. In fact, the risk of suffering a heart attack is 24 times higher within the first hour of using cocaine.
The Cocaine Crash
The signs of cocaine addiction can continue even when a person is not actively using the substance. One sign is often referred to as the “crash” or “comedown.” After the effects of a cocaine binge wears off, individuals experience deep fatigue and depression. Feelings of suspicion, paranoia, and agitation may also arise during the crash.
The comedown feeds the desire for more cocaine use, creating a vicious cycle. Psychological and physical cravings for more cocaine become severe.
Call Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient for Help with Cocaine Addiction Symptoms
Contrary to what some believe, cocaine is not a harmless party drug; it is a dangerous substance that can devastate your life and health. Using cocaine may be a method of self-medicating a depressive disorder or coping with severe social phobia. But no matter the reason you may have started using cocaine, the results of addiction are devastating.
Fortunately, we understand the struggle of overcoming a substance use disorder and are ready to provide effective treatment. Contact Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient at 888.498.2376 and speak to one of our compassionate admissions counselors to learn more about the signs of cocaine addiction.
