Cocaine is an illegal drug that creates a stimulating effect and can lead to dependence and addiction. Cocaine dependence happens when you take cocaine frequently and become physically dependent on it to function normally.
Recovery Ranch PA welcomes Pennsylvanian residents struggling with addiction to cocaine and need help. Our team can evaluate you to determine the best course of action in treating the abuse—and then create a comprehensive treatment program. If you or a loved one is struggling with cocaine addiction, call 717.969.9126 today for more information about our cocaine rehab program.
Recognizing Cocaine Dependence
Cocaine is a party drug that became popular during the 1980s. Today, millions of people are addicted to this dangerous substance and experiencing several physical and psychological symptoms. Cocaine dependence occurs when people feel an unrelenting need to keep abusing cocaine despite experiencing adverse physical or psychological conditions.
What does cocaine dependence look like? Symptoms include rapid heart rate, insomnia, dilated pupils, a runny nose, and the following:
- Persistent nosebleeds
- High blood pressure
- A loss of appetite
- Bursts of energy
A person abusing cocaine can act like everything is ok, but they’re just fooling themselves into thinking they have everything under control. They can lie about their whereabouts, the people they hang out with, and their actions. You’ll notice they act recklessly and take unnecessary risks, and they’ll eventually turn to stealing or borrowing money to buy more drugs.
Recovery Ranch PA supports those struggling with cocaine addiction and is ready to take that first step toward recovery. Our experienced therapists can create a comprehensive program that can treat the long-term effects of cocaine safely and give people a better chance of reaching their recovery goals.
The Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Abuse
Cocaine is a dangerous drug with devastating side effects. Long-term use increases the risk of cardiovascular illness and heart attacks. Prolonged cocaine abuse can lead to cardiovascular damage as well as harm to the sinuses and respiratory system.
Cardiovascular Conditions
The effects of continual high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and vasoconstriction in the brain can be very damaging to your body. It can cause:
- Angina, or chest pain from tightening of the vessels
- Myocardial infarction, or the death of heart muscle from a lack of oxygen related to poor blood flow
- Permanently increased blood pressure
- Tachycardia
- Arrhythmia, or irregular heart rate
It can also cause blood clots, leading to heart attack, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Abuse on the Sinuses
Snorting cocaine is the most common way of ingesting the white powdery substance, which can lead to damage to the nose and mouth. This causes the nose and mouth to dry out due to reduced blood flow to the area. The soft tissue becomes damaged and can eventually die. Long-term consumption carries a high risk of developing septum and mouth perforations, which are holes in the soft tissue that can affect breathing.
Respiratory Issues
If you smoke cocaine, you’re at risk of developing respiratory problems and pulmonary damage. Smoke destroys the alveolar walls and constricts blood vessels in the lungs, reducing oxygen absorption into the bloodstream. Other respiratory symptoms include:
- Black sputum
- Coughing
- Diffused wheezing sounds
- Pain
- Increased presence of white blood cells
- Raised body temperature
If you’re abusing cocaine and have any of these long-term symptoms, the safest way to begin recovery is through a comprehensive cocaine recovery program.
Enroll in Cocaine Rehab Today at Recovery Ranch PA
Recovery Ranch PA is a full-service addiction treatment center that works with people struggling with cocaine addiction. Our team has experience treating cocaine dependence and addiction by developing a holistic approach to treating your unique symptoms.
If you or a loved one are abusing cocaine, fill out our online form or call 717.969.9126 today to schedule a consultation and tour of our recovery center.
