Cocaine Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and Effects

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Cocaine is a highly stimulant drug that is widely abused for recreational purposes in the United Kingdom and around the world. In addition to the wide range of cocaine addiction symptoms, users report feelings of euphoria, increased energy, enhanced self-confidence, and numbness to pain after consuming the drug.

Cocaine’s effects are typically both intense and brief, which often leads to individuals abusing the drug repeatedly in a short period of time. This can lead to the development of a dangerous cocaine addiction, as well as a slew of other negative consequences that can have a significant negative impact on an individual’s health and well-being.As a result, it is critical to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of cocaine addiction in order to address and overcome this serious condition.

The intensive cocaine addiction treatment program that we provide at Manor Clinic enables individuals to address the symptoms of this condition, overcome their cocaine addiction, and develop the skills and coping mechanisms needed to live a drug-free life.

Table of Contents

Symptoms of Cocaine Use

Cocaine/crack is a stimulant drug that increases alertness and euphoria. It is also one of the most addictive drugs in the world. Cocaine is a powder that can be snorted, injected, or swallowed, whereas crack cocaine comes in the form of a rock that can be inhaled. When someone uses cocaine, they may experience the following symptoms:

Positive and energizing
Touch, light, or sound sensitivity
Restless
Irritable
Paranoid

Physical and behavioral signs of cocaine use, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, include:

pupils dilated
An increase in body temperature and blood pressure
Increased heart rate
Appetite loss
Unusual behavior

Cocaine overdose symptoms include:

Breathing difficulties
Chest ache
Vomiting or nausea
Seizures, tremors, and confusion
Anxiety
Panic
Paranoia
Drug addiction is defined as the compulsive use of a drug despite the risks and consequences.

According to Lin Sternlicht, LMHC, an addiction specialist in New York City, signs of cocaine addiction include:

Changes in sleep patterns
Neglecting hygiene
Secrecy
Lying
Dangerous behavior
Swings in mood
Paranoia
Loss of enthusiasm for enjoyable activities
Financial issues
“Individuals addicted to cocaine may frequently [go] from a sense of mania and euphoria while high to feeling low and irritable while withdrawing,” Sternlicht explains.

Withdrawal is the body’s response to the absence of a substance to which it is addicted. Cocaine withdrawal symptoms may include:

Cravings that are intense
Depression
Suicidal ideation
Irritability
Fever

The severity of a person’s habit determines how difficult cocaine withdrawal is. However, going cold turkey at a detox center can help alleviate symptoms.

What are the long-term effects of cocaine addiction?

The long-term effects of cocaine abuse, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, can vary depending on the method of consumption and may include:

Nosebleeds
Loss of smell Difficulties swallowing
Asthma
Infections of the lungs

Infections such as pneumonia, HIV, Hepatitis C, and airborne diseases are more likely.

Furthermore, there is evidence that long-term cocaine use can be harmful to your heart. In a 2014 study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance, researchers compared the cardiac functions of study subjects who had abused cocaine for a number of years to those of a similar age who had not abused cocaine and were otherwise healthy.

In comparison to the healthy group, 30% of those with a history of cocaine use showed signs of myocardial damage and increased indicators of poor heart health, according to the study.

Cocaine use can also have an effect on your brain. “In terms of the brain,” Sternlicht says, “cocaine use can contribute to long-term mental health problems such as depression.” “It can also increase the risk of dementia.”

Sternlicht advises approaching a loved one with gentle care and concern if you suspect they have a cocaine addiction.

“Don’t judge, criticize, or berate them,” Sternlicht advises. “Addicts frequently feel isolated, alone, helpless, and hopeless.” Inform them that you can assist them in locating the assistance they require.”

What are the long-term consequences of cocaine withdrawal?

Long-term cocaine abuse usually leads to an individual becoming physically and psychologically dependent on the substance in order to function properly. As a result, a sudden lack of cocaine in a person’s system, or a significant reduction in use, can result in a variety of unpleasant and distressing cocaine withdrawal symptoms. These could include:

Cocaine cravings are intense.
Restlessness
Irritability and agitation
Depression
Anxiety
Fatigue
Nightmares that are vivid
Paranoia
Chills
Tremors

Our comprehensive medically assisted drug detoxification program at Manor Clinic allows our patients to undergo the systematic removal of all traces of harmful substances from their bodies while receiving 24-hour medical assistance, monitoring, and care to manage withdrawal symptoms.

What are the consequences of a cocaine overdose?

Overdosing on cocaine, also known as cocaine overdose, can be a dangerous and potentially fatal experience. The following are common indications that a person has overdosed on cocaine and requires immediate medical attention: