Cocaine is a dangerous and highly addictive drug. It works as a stimulant in the body. As a Schedule II drug, it is not one that should be used illicitly. Cocaine’s side effects can be very significant and, in some cases, life-threatening. If you are using cocaine and you’re ready to start thinking about cocaine addiction treatment, Rockland Recovery Treatment Center can help you.
What Are Short-Term Cocaine Side Effects?
Using a single dose will produce a reaction, and it generally happens right away. A person may feel high for a few minutes or up to an hour. Smaller amounts create a sense of euphoria, making a person feel as though they are full of energy, mentally alert, and talkative. Some people do not feel they need to eat anything or sleep while they are high. They may also be more likely to engage in risky behaviors. Some think the drug also makes them think faster.
This only happens for a short period. After that, a person begins to feel incredibly tired. When a person absorbs the drug at a fast rate, the results are more intense. The short-term cocaine side effects may include:
- Increased body temperature
- Increased heart rate
- Dilated pupils
- Higher blood pressure
- Erratic and sometimes violent behavior
- Feelings of restlessness
- Irritability
- Vertigo
Some people may have more significant and severe side effects when using cocaine. These include changes to heart rhythm or a heart attack. It can also lead to seizures, strokes, or neurological effects. Some people also have pain in their stomach. An overdose can occur as well if you do not seek treatment from a substance abuse treatment program.
What Are the Long Term Cocaine Side Effects?
Most people who have cocaine side effects after using can also develop longer-term effects on their brain and body. Over time, tolerance builds up. That means a person becomes less sensitive to the drug, so they have to use more of it to get the same results.
While this is happening, the wiring in the brain changes, too. These circuits in the brain that are involved in stress become more sensitive. That leads to worsening mood and negative effects when a person does not take the drug. This indicates withdrawal.
As tolerance to the drug builds, the person’s body does not immediately become able to cope with the heightened amounts used. In other words, the risk of toxic shock and overdose increases significantly. Cocaine can damage various organs of the body, including the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, liver, and heart. There is also an increased risk of seizures and stroke as a result of the damage it does to the brain. Cognitive function impairment also occurs with the use of cocaine.
Are You At Risk? How to Overcome Cocaine Side Effects
If you are using this drug, you are at risk for health complications at all times. You can get help. Our cocaine addiction treatment program in MA can provide you with a safe way to remove these substances from your body while also increasing your overall ability to overcome withdrawal. If you are experiencing cocaine side effects, it is best to reach out for help immediately. Our team offers a wide range of treatment options that can help you. This includes:
- Men’s drug rehab
- Women’s drug rehab
- Day partial hospitalization program
- Day intensive outpatient program
- Evening intensive outpatient program
Call Rockland Recovery Treatment Center
If you are experiencing cocaine side effects or you are using cocaine, now is the time to get help. The sooner you do, the more likely you are to get back your life. Our cocaine addiction treatment program in MA can provide you with the help you need. Call our counselors at Rockland Recovery Treatment Center at 855.732.4842 today.
