Cocaine is a highly addictive recreational drug that can lead to personal and family issues if the use of the substance gets out of hand. It’s important to notice the signs and symptoms of drug use so you can get the right treatment for yourself or someone you know.
Find out more about the physical changes to look out for, along with changes in the patterns of behavior and moods.
Physical Changes
Like any substance, cocaine has a physical effect on the body; even short-term cocaine use can change the way you look and act. When someone takes cocaine, the pupils in their eyes dilate and may become bloodshot. Further changes occur depending on how the drug is ingested.
If cocaine is snorted, it can lead to a bleeding nose, runny nose, or difficulty swallowing. Oral consumption can lead to bowel decay, and smoking can lead to respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and breathing problems. Expect physical scarring if needles are used to ingest.
Tolerance and Withdrawal
Cocaine is a highly addictive amphetamine that causes withdrawal symptoms after short-term use. The more cocaine is used, the harder it becomes to obtain the same effect, and more of the drug is ingested. On the other side of the coin are withdrawal symptoms in line with tolerance.
Withdrawal symptoms from cocaine use include aches, chills, fevers, cold sweats, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and fatigue. If someone is using cocaine and experiences these symptoms, chances are they are an addiction and should look for a good treatment option.
Life Issues
Life issues often go hand in hand with drug use. Cocaine users might find themselves missing work or family engagements to use more of the drug; they might also run into financial problems attempting to fund a habit. These are all warning signs that someone has an issue with cocaine.
If your finances, livelihood, or relationships are being affected by your lifestyle choices, it’s time to reflect on what is important. Depending on the severity of the addiction, someone might be able to give it up by themselves; alternatively, they have to seek a professional treatment option.
Mood Changes
One of the recreational effects of cocaine use is mood distortion; it heightens the senses and creates a temporary mania. However, long-term use of the substance can alter moods more frequently and lead to irritability and depression, especially when withdrawal starts to increase.
Over time, these mood distortions can become difficult to manage and lead to depression and suicidal ideation. It’s important to recognize the symptoms of cocaine addiction early and take appropriate action to avoid adverse outcomes. Contact a treatment center for a consultation.
Social Changes
When someone starts using cocaine regularly, their relationships can start to suffer. Secrecy can be a common characteristic, as well as irritability and abusive behaviors. Cocaine use can also cause people to withdraw from their families and colleagues and prioritize the drug over people. If you recognize these patterns in yourself or someone else, contact a professional for some advice.