THE DANGER AND DESTRUCTION OF COCAINE
Cocaine is best defined as an addictive drug that increases your levels of attention, energy, and awareness also known as a stimulant. It stems from a native South American plant called the coca plant and, despite being illegal in the U.S., is still widespread and abused by masses of people.
It exists in quite a few different forms, but the most commonly used is a fine, white powder. It can also be made into solid crystal rock. The majority of users snort the powder into their nose, while others massage it onto their gums or mix it into water then inject it with needles. The rock crystal is also sometimes heated up and the smoke is then inhaled.
Cocaine sends a naturally occurring chemical called dopamine into each part of your brain that controls pleasure. Intense feelings of alertness, along with energy, are called a high.
Short Term Effects of Cocaine Use:
High sensitivity to sound, touch, and sight
- Extreme happiness
- Decreased appetite
- Irritability and anger
- Paranoia
Long Term Side Effects of Cocaine Use:
- Headaches
- Convulsions
- Seizures
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Mood swings
- Sexual incompetence
- Heart disease
- Lung damage
- HIV or hepatitis from injection
- Bowel decay from ingestion
- Runny nose, nosebleeds, and loss of smell
- Trouble swallowing from inhalation
Using cocaine may serve as a catalyst for more serious health problems It may also trigger cravings for the drug itself and the associated euphoric high. However the more you abuse cocaine, the more your brain will adjust to it; over time you’ll need a stronger dose to achieve the same state of being. This, unfortunately, often leads to addiction or overdose.
Many people who become addicted to this drug do eventually seek a way out. But, they typically experience a phase called withdrawal that brings along bouts of many physical and mental obstacles. These can include:
- Drug cravings
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue
- Increased appetite
- Chills
- Nightmares
- Nerve pain
- Muscle aches
A lesser known fact is that overdose is often more difficult to treat. Yet this does not equal impossible as there are many resources that can greatly increase your chances of pulling through this difficult time and conquering the disease.
At Asana Recovery, we understand the difficult process of recovery from the chains of addiction, through our daily work helping those struggling with this the most. While some believe they are able to make it idly, rehabilitation programs are very helpful in the battle to stop dependency. It is not without difficulty but can be done if supported by the best team possible. Counseling along with aftercare can assist you in addressing your cognitive reasoning for pursuing addiction, while helping you build structures to better cope with life without the drug.
Supervised detox and residential treatment at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxed, environment. We are forever committed to ensuring life-long recovery, serving as guidance on the path to a happier and healthier future. There’s no better time than presently to call us at (949) 438-4504, and learn more about our drug and alcohol addiction recovery programs. We’re always ready to speak to you!
