Cocaine is an extremely common and highly addictive drug used by 14-21 million people worldwide. Both the short-term and long-term effects of cocaine can be highly detrimental to the body and extremely dangerous. If you believe that you or a loved one is addicted to cocaine, reach out to Northpoint Seattle today at 888.483.6031 to discuss our cocaine addiction treatment options. You don’t want to wait any longer; cocaine can be an incredibly dangerous drug disguised as a party drug.
What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is one of the most well-known euphoric drugs. It comes in a number of forms but most commonly is taken as a fine powder that can be snorted, smoked, or injected. If a person is smoking cocaine, it is most likely “crack,” which is another form of the drug that has gone through even more processing by drug dealers and manufacturers. How a person uses cocaine will determine the level of danger and the physical side effects they may experience. For example, the long-term effects of cocaine for somebody who primarily smokes will most likely be respiratory and breathing issues. While the long-term effects of cocaine for somebody who snorts it might damage their nasal cavity and cause constant nosebleeds.
Risks of Cocaine
All methods of cocaine use have the potential to be dangerous, even fatal. An overdose of cocaine is usually the result of toxic levels of the drug in the bloodstream. This potent dose can increase blood pressure, respiration, and heart rate. These levels can also elevate body temperatures to dangerous, potentially fatal levels. Signs of cocaine overdoses include:
- Irregular heart rate
- Headache
- Tumors
- Seizures
- Fever
- Agitation
- Increased blood pressure
- Hallucination
- Chest pain
If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical help.
3 Dangerous Side Effects of Cocaine
Cocaine works by sending high levels of dopamine into the parts of your brain that control pleasure. This buildup increases energy significantly and makes an individual incredibly alert. Some of the long-term effects of cocaine are:
- Depression – Repeated use of cocaine can cause the brain to stop making as much dopamine naturally because it’s become accustomed to higher levels due to the cocaine. Those who often abuse cocaine experience long-term depression.
- Physical effects – There are a number of physical side effects that can result from cocaine abuse. Some of the most common include damaged naval cavities and respiratory issues from snorting or smoking it. The risks include infection and long-term diseases from dirty needles if injecting the drug.
- Addiction – Since cocaine causes significant euphoria, it can quickly lead to addiction. After the high, it leaves people depressed or in a crash, and they almost always crave more cocaine to bring them to more normal brain levels.
Cocaine Addiction Treatment
If you or a loved one are addicted to cocaine, seeking treatment before it’s too late is critical. Counseling and other types of therapy are the most common treatments for cocaine addictions. Some people require inpatient treatment in a rehabilitation center to ensure that they are far away from triggers.
Currently, there are no medicines approved for cocaine addiction treatment. However, sessions with a therapist can help people struggling with cocaine addiction change their behaviors and thought processes. The most vital part of cocaine addiction treatment is giving up the drug as soon as possible. Every time a person ingests cocaine, they are putting themselves at risk.
Cocaine Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Seattle
Finding help to break the cycle of cocaine addiction can be easy with Northpoint Seattle. Our team of medical professionals and recovery specialists ensure that you have a calm, judgment-free environment to take the first steps toward a sober future.
We have a variety of resources available for you or a loved one to benefit from, including:
- Dual diagnosis
- Medical intervention
- Relapse prevention
- One-on-one counseling
- Family therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Reach out to develop your recovery plan with a specialist today by calling 888.483.6031.