Short-term Effects of Cocaine

When using cocaine, short-term effects can include:

  1. Physical Effects: Cocaine use can lead to constricted blood vessels, dilated pupils, increased body temperature, an elevated heart rate, and high blood pressure. These physiological changes can result in stomach pain, reduced appetite, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. The increased heart rate and blood pressure also raise the risk of a heart attack.
  2. Behavioral Changes: Cocaine increases dopamine levels in the brain’s reward center, causing erratic and sometimes violent behavior. Users may become overly confident and prone to reckless actions that can lead to injury.

 

Long-term Effects of Cocaine

Extended and regular cocaine use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses for the same effects and worsening health consequences:

  1. Nose and Mouth Damage: Snorting cocaine damages nasal and oral mucous membranes, potentially leading to a perforated septum and loss of smell. Nosebleeds, difficulty swallowing, and nasal irritation are common.
  2. Heart Health: Chronic cocaine use raises the risk of blood clots, heart attacks, pulmonary embolisms, strokes, and heart muscle inflammation. It can also permanently increase blood pressure.
  3. Respiratory Issues: Smoking cocaine can hinder oxygen uptake and damage capillaries, increasing the risk of respiratory problems like pneumonia and asthma.
  4. Brain Impact: Cocaine constricts blood vessels, reducing brain oxygenation, which can lead to brain damage, aneurysms, strokes, and cognitive impairment.
  5. Digestive Problems: Cocaine reduces blood flow to the stomach and intestines, causing tears, ulcers, and ischemic colitis.
  6. Kidney and Liver Damage: Cocaine can harm muscle fibers and injure the kidneys and liver as it metabolizes.
  7. Infectious Diseases: Injecting cocaine can lead to complications like gangrene, ulcers, and the transmission of contagious diseases such as hepatitis and HIV.

 

Effects on Quality of Life

Cocaine misuse and addiction can severely impact one’s life, leading to family problems, academic failure, financial troubles, social withdrawal, poor job performance, unemployment, legal issues, and even suicidal thoughts.

Read: What is Pink Cocaine, 2C-B Drug or Tuci?

Recovery from Cocaine Addiction

If you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine abuse or addiction, Still Detox is the place to be. We provide initial assessments, drug detoxification programs, residential stays, daycare, and support for individuals on their journey to recovery. Our team is here to help you regain control of your life and well-being.