5 Irreversible Side Effects of Cocaine Abuse
Cocaine is a dangerous stimulant that is highly addictive and is known to encourage problematic and risky behavior. Those under the influence of cocaine often binge the drug and stay awake for long periods of time while intoxicated. It’s common for those under the influence of cocaine to also use other drugs at the same time making the physical and mental health consequences even riskier. Cocaine is associated with partying, sexual deviance, and unsavory behavior partly because it is a strong stimulant. Cocaine abuse is increasingly worrisome in contemporary times as it is often cut with other drugs such as fentanyl. The combination of cocaine and fentanyl, an extremely potent opiate, can be deadly.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with cocaine addiction early intervention is always best. Keeping that in mind, it’s never too late to break the cycle of abuse. Long-term abuse of cocaine results in irreversible side effects including brain damage, heart attacks, organ failure, and a wide range of physical issues that result from malnutrition which is common with prolonged stimulant abuse.
Reach out to Oasis Recovery today to speak with a specialist about the benefits of our cocaine addiction treatment program for lasting recovery. Our programs and services are tailored to meet the individual needs of our clients. The opportunity to heal damaged relationships and get your life back on the right track is just a phone call away.
Know the Signs of Cocaine Abuse
Common symptoms of cocaine abuse can include:
- Bursts of energy or excitement
- Increased anxiety
- Depression
- Lack of pleasure from hobbies and interests
- Being secretive
- Active at unusual hours
- Awake for unusually long periods of time
- Changes in social behavior
- Rapid weight change
Symptoms of cocaine withdrawal may include:
- Agitation
- Restlessness
- Intense Fatigue
- Change in appetite
- Change in sleep patterns
- Lethargic
- Anxiety
- Depression
5 Irreversible Side Effects of Cocaine Abuse
1. Organ Damage
Long-term use of cocaine can result in damage to your liver and reduce kidney function. Your vocal cords and esophagus are damaged by prolonged use and this results in impaired speech.
2. Heart Issues
Over time, abuse of cocaine and other stimulants damages the heart muscle. As a result, those with cocaine addictions can suffer from:
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Heart attacks
3. Brain Damage
Cocaine alters the way a person’s brain functions. Damage done by cocaine to a person’s brain can, over time, result in the potential for seizures and strokes.
4. Mental Health Problems
Prolonged use of stimulants and uppers like cocaine can create permanent mood instability, increase anxiety, cause severe depression, hallucinations, and put individuals at risk for suicidal ideation.
5. Gastrointestinal Issues
GI issues are common with sustained cocaine abuse. Over time, appetite suppression, rapid weight changes, malnutrition, and other problematic eating habits can result in permanent digestive issues.
How A Person Abuses Cocaine Makes a Difference
The way a person abuses cocaine can result in different long-term consequences. Those that snort cocaine and prone to issues that differ from those who primarily smoke or inject cocaine.
An individual who has snorted cocaine for long periods of time may experience problems including:
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Loss of sense of smell
- Issues swallowing
- Hoarse speech
- Damaged nasal septum
Those who inject cocaine are likely to have permanent “track marks” at injection sites and scars from abscesses. Those who smoke cocaine are likely to experience teeth and gum decay similar to those who abuse methamphetamine.
Contact Oasis Recovery Today to Find Lasting Recovery
At Oasis Recovery, we know it is difficult to cease abusing highly addictive substances like cocaine. Our medical professionals do not judge clients for their life choices. We are here to help you get your life back and create a better tomorrow. Our doctors and mental health counselors work with clients to formulate effective treatment plans that are designed to meet their individual needs. Reach out to us today to speak with a specialist about our programs and mental health services about the right treatment options for your personal situation.
