Cocaine is a stimulant drug that increases the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. Cocaine can be smoked, injected, or inhaled and affects the brain immediately. The brain rapidly releases dopamine, which causes pleasurable effects or a high and is associated with the potential for dependence and abuse. When levels of dopamine drop, withdrawal symptoms start. The unpleasant withdrawal symptoms can lead a person to use again and more frequently.
Cocaine causes changes in the brain chemistry and behavioral abnormalities such as erratic behavior, psychotic symptoms, and new-onset of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH), cocaine use “can lead to increased irritability, restlessness, panic attacks, paranoia, and even a full-blown psychosis.” The NIH also states, “There have been reports of intracerebral hemorrhage, or bleeding within the brain, and balloon-like bulges in the walls of cerebral blood vessels. Movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, may also occur after many years of cocaine use.”
A person can become addicted to cocaine after one use, but as with any drug, each person’s experience is unique. The first time using cocaine will produce the most intense euphoric sensation. Cocaine use causes heart failure, respiratory issues, stroke, and seizures.
Some of the physical symptoms of cocaine use include nosebleeds, insomnia, nasal damage, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, and nausea just to name a few. Other risks from cocaine abuse include blood borne infectious conditions, such as HIV or hepatitis C, which are related to the injection of cocaine and non-sterile needle use.
A number of factors contribute to an individual’s risk of addiction. Genetics play a huge role in drug addiction. Other factors to consider are physical or emotional trauma, peer pressure, family dynamics, stress, and personality traits. These characteristics contribute individually or in combination with other factors. Cocaine use puts a person at risk for relationship problems, job loss, financial troubles, and incarceration.
Cocaine use puts a person at high risk for drug addiction, post-traumatic stress, depressive disorders, and other psychological problems. Recovery from cocaine addiction is possible. Get help today.
If you or a loved one struggle with addiction, get help now. Nexus Recovery Services specializes in addiction treatment and encompasses holistic therapy for the mind, body, and soul with a focus on staying active and connected to nature. Our mission is to provide tools and support for every client’s seamless transition into a meaningful and fulfilling life of sobriety. We offer a free and confidential consultation. Call us to get started: 888-855-6877