Cocaine has a long history in America, including being an ingredient in Coca-Cola and widely used for medical purposes until the early 1900s. Cocaine use was at its peak during the 1980s. Powder cocaine was expensive and associated with wealth and prestige, while crack cocaine was cheap and poured into the inner cities. The crack epidemic was particularly devastating to African-American communities.
The opioid epidemic that began in the 1990s created a shift in drug use and took the spotlight from cocaine. While cocaine use has dropped significantly compared to the 1980s, millions of Americans continue to battle cocaine addiction today.1 If you or a loved one needs cocaine rehab in the San Antonio, TX, area, contact Hill Country at 1.844.675.1628. We provide comprehensive treatment to address the physical and psychological impacts of cocaine addiction.
Is Cocaine a Stimulant?
Stimulants are drugs that tap into the central nervous system to increase energy, alertness, and attention. Stimulants include prescription medications like Adderall and Ritalin, over-the-counter products like coffee, nicotine, and energy drinks, and illegal drugs, including methamphetamine and cocaine.
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that triggers the brain’s reward system and boosts the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of pleasure. The effects of cocaine are intense, come on quickly, and are short-lived, resulting in repeated use that can set the stage for addiction.
How to Recognize Cocaine Abuse
Most people struggle to view their substance abuse honestly. This is especially true in the early stages of cocaine abuse, when they might not yet be experiencing significant consequences. Substance use disorder (SUD) impacts everyone differently. Still, some signs point to cocaine use, including:
- Being unable to control the amount or frequency of cocaine use
- Needing more frequent and higher doses to feel the desired effects
- Spending the majority of time thinking about, acquiring, using, and recovering from cocaine
- Neglecting daily responsibilities at home, work, or school
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Experiencing financial or legal issues
- Having problems in personal and professional relationships
- An inability to cut back or stop using cocaine despite wanting to
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using cocaine
- Physical symptoms like weight loss and frequent nosebleeds
The physical, psychological, and social impacts of cocaine use often have significant consequences, both short and long-term. The immediate risk is overdose or sudden death caused by cardiac arrest or seizures. Today, cocaine frequently contains unknown quantities of fentanyl, which substantially increases these risks.
The Health Impacts of Cocaine Abuse
Cocaine use elevates blood pressure as well as heart and breath rate. Long-term or heavy cocaine use can cause irregular heartbeat, heart failure, seizures, overdose, and death. Frequently, individuals who abuse cocaine have co-occurring mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders.
Additionally, alcohol misuse is often tied to cocaine use. Alcohol is a depressant, so it is frequently used to balance the stimulant effects of cocaine or help come down from a cocaine high. Because the effects of alcohol and cocaine counteract each other, there is an increased risk of overconsumption of both, which can lead to alcohol poisoning or cocaine overdose.
Other health impacts of chronic cocaine use can include:
- Anxiety, paranoia, and confused thinking
- Dependence and addiction
- Cardiovascular issues
- Significant weight loss and malnutrition
- Central nervous system damage
- Damage to the sinus passages or collapsed veins
- Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
- Increased aggression, mood swings, and emotional instability
In addition to the physical and mental health impacts, cocaine use has significant social consequences. Sustained cocaine use can contribute to the breakdown of relationships, job loss, housing insecurity, and legal issues.
Contact Hill Country for Cocaine Rehab in San Antonio Today
Cocaine can seem alluring because of how it is glamorized in the media or because of the “promise” of increased energy, focus, and confidence. In reality, cocaine is a dangerously addictive drug that can tear your world apart. If you are ready to break the cycle of cocaine use, Hill Country is here to help. Recovery is within your grasp through your commitment and our guidance and support. Contact us online or call 1.844.675.1628 to enroll in cocaine rehab today.
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