Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that is known for its potential for dependency. Although the drug may provide a temporary euphoric high, misusing cocaine frequently can lead to severe health problems, including, of course, addiction.
But what exactly are the side effects of cocaine? That’s what we’ll be exploring in this blog post. Read on for some of the short-term effects and long-term effects of cocaine abuse.
Understanding The Short-Term Side Effects of Cocaine
Whether you frequently snort cocaine, smoke cocaine or inject cocaine, there are several short-term side effects to be aware of. Many people take cocaine for effects such as euphoria and increased energy - but these aren’t the only potential effects.
Immediate Euphoria and Energy Boost
One of the main - and most sought-after - effects of cocaine is euphoria and an energy boost. This is one of the most immediate effects of the drug.
This intense high is one of the main reasons why people continue taking cocaine. However, this high does not usually last long. When you snort cocaine, you may only feel these effects for 30 to 40 minutes.
Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
Cocaine can significantly increase your heart rate and blood pressure. High blood pressure can put stress on your cardiovascular system. This, in turn, can increase the risk of a heart attack - especially if you have any pre-existing conditions.
Constricted Blood Vessels
As well as increasing your heart rate and blood pressure, cocaine also constricts your blood vessels. This can lead to reduced blood flow to your vital organs and tissues, which can worsen the cardiovascular effects of the drug. In both the short and long term, this can result in serious complications.
Heightened Alertness and Sensitivity
One of the main immediate effects of cocaine is heightened alertness and sensitivity. When you take cocaine, you may notice that you’ve become more vigilant, you have enhanced perception or even a distorted sense of reality. This can pose some dangers, and potentially increase the risk of accidents.
Agitation and Irritability
Some people who take cocaine may begin to feel agitated or irritable, or even experience feelings of paranoia. Cocaine can also make you feel on edge, restless, and prone to mood swings. This can have a huge impact on your relationships and overall well-being.
Cocaine Overdose
When you abuse cocaine, you could be at risk of having a cocaine overdose - especially if you mix cocaine with other drugs or with alcohol. Whether it be powder cocaine or crack cocaine, a cocaine overdose can overwhelm your body and cause severe health problems, or even death.
Some signs of a cocaine overdose include:
- Rapid heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
A cocaine overdose can cause seizures, strokes, and heart attacks. If you believe you are having a cocaine overdose, or someone you know may be having an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Using cocaine is always risky and can have serious consequences, so it's best to avoid it altogether.
Understanding The Long-Term Side Effects of Cocaine
Now you understand the more immediate side effects of cocaine, let’s explore some of the potential long-term effects of the drug.
Cardiovascular Complications
Long-term cocaine abuse can have serious repercussions on cardiovascular health. Chronic cocaine use is associated with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions due to its effects on blood pressure and heart function.
Mental Health Disorders
Cocaine misuse is closely linked to the development of mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Likewise, cocaine affects your levels of dopamine, leading to changes in mood.
Long-term cocaine use can ultimately worsen existing psychiatric conditions or cause new ones. In turn, this can lead to significant impairment in functioning.
Cognitive Impairment
Chronic substance abuse, including cocaine abuse, can impair cognitive function. This means that it can lead to issues with memory, attention, and decision-making. These effects can last even after you stop taking cocaine, and continue to impact your daily life. This is why it’s so important to seek support sooner rather than later.
Damage to Organs and Tissues
Cocaine abuse can lead to organ damage - whether it be respiratory issues from smoking crack cocaine or gastrointestinal issues from snorting powder cocaine. Ultimately, the long-term side effects of cocaine abuse can be severe, and even deadly.
Addiction and Dependence
Finally, when you abuse any drug, whether it be heroin or prescription medication, there is a risk for addiction - and cocaine is no exception. The more you abuse cocaine, the more you increase the risk of developing a drug dependence.
If you have developed drug dependence, you may begin to experience cocaine withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking cocaine or reduce your cocaine intake.
You may struggle to control your cocaine use and continue to take cocaine despite the negative consequences of the drug. Seeking help is the best thing you can do - read on to find out how.
Get Help For Cocaine Addiction Today
If you or someone you know is dealing with cocaine abuse or addiction, we’re here to help. At Help4Addiction, we understand that addiction is a complex medical disorder, which is why we work to connect those struggling with addiction with suitable treatment plans.
If you continue to abuse cocaine, the health risks may increase. However, seeking treatment can help to minimise these potential side effects and reduce the risk of serious health complications.
Whether it be drug or alcohol addiction, trust our experts at Help4Addiction to find the most suitable cocaine addiction treatment programme for you.
From outpatient counselling services to residential rehab programmes, there are a range of treatment options tailored to meet your needs, however severe or mild your addiction. There is support out there for you - get help today with Help4Addiction.
