What Are the Long-Term Effects of Cocaine?

Cocaine is an addictive stimulant drug that has long-term effects on the brain and the body. Since the high from cocaine is typically short-lived, it’s easy to brush off these dangerous effects. Many people use it socially on a night out and believe that it is not as serious as some of the substances typically used in these settings. 

However, long-term cocaine use can have serious consequences on a person’s overall well-being. Learning more about what the drug does to the body can help shed light on its detrimental effects. 

Effects of Cocaine Use

Understanding what cocaine does to a person physically, mentally, and emotionally is important. People who use cocaine may experience the following effects when they repeatedly abuse the drug:

Impact on Cardiovascular System

Cocaine is a drug that stimulates the cardiovascular system through its effects on the central nervous system. As a result, it can result in chronic high blood pressure and increased heart rate. The more people abuse the drug, the more these conditions strain the heart and blood vessels. 

Effects on Respiratory Health 

One of the methods of use of cocaine is smoking (crack cocaine). When a person smokes cocaine, it can cause serious effects on a person’s respiratory system. For instance, long-term users may develop a “crack lung,” a condition characterised by acute lung inflammation and chest pain.

Cocaine can also be snorted. This method damages the nasal septum, causing chronic nosebleeds, nasal congestion, and loss of smell. The sinus damage can make it more difficult to breathe properly. 

Digestive Issues from Cocaine Abuse

Chronic cocaine abuse can also cause digestive issues. The drug reduces blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation in the colon lining and severe abdominal pain. It also slows down contractions in the digestive system, which may result in users experiencing chronic constipation and bloating. 

Immune System Complications

Abusing cocaine will also have serious effects on the immune system. The immune system is responsible for the body’s ability to fight infections, and abusing this drug disrupts the system’s function. 

Complications, such as increased susceptibility to infections and persistent inflammation, are highly likely with long-term cocaine use. It may also trigger or worsen autoimmune conditions, requiring more specialised care. 

Mental Health Problems

Cocaine use interferes with the brain receptors responsible for pleasure, motivation, and reward. Take, for example, dopamine. When a person takes cocaine, the drug blocks the reuptake of dopamine. Over time, users may even depend on the drug to produce these chemicals. Without cocaine, mental health problems worsen and become more prevalent. 

In addition, most people who engage in drug abuse also struggle with co-occurring disorders. Using drugs like cocaine while struggling with existing mental health conditions can exacerbate symptoms and lead to more complications. 

Social Consequences

People who continue to use cocaine are also subject to the social consequences of dependency. For instance, drug use can make a person feel more isolated, so they tend to withdraw themselves from friends or family.

People who abuse cocaine may also frequently run into trouble with the law and their finances. The drug can lead to risky decisions that significantly impact a person’s overall quality of life. 

Possible Overdose

A person who continues to use cocaine will eventually develop a tolerance to the drug. This means that they will need more of the drug to experience the same effects. As users take more of the drug, it becomes trickier to gauge how much is safe to consume. While usually not intended, potentially fatal overdose can happen when individuals can no longer control their use. 

What Are the Short-Term Effects of Cocaine Use?

Some of the short-term effects of using cocaine include: 

• Increased energy and alertness or where people feel a heightened sense of focus.
• Intense euphoria that makes a person feel more happy and confident.
• Dilated pupils, which is a common sign that someone is using stimulants.
• Feeling more sociable and friendly, especially when using cocaine in social settings.
• A decreased appetite may eventually result in rapid weight loss.
• In some cases, paranoia and anxiety may arise from using cocaine.
• Impaired judgement can lead a person to engage in risky behaviours.

What Is Cocaine?

Cocaine is an addictive stimulant drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant. The plant’s leaves were historically chewed for stimulating effects. However, cocaine’s modern form goes through an extensive process that turns the plant into a fine, white powder.

It’s classified as a Schedule II drug, which means it has a high potential for abuse. Many people who use cocaine may be addicted to it, mainly when they continuously use the drug over time. 

Repeated cocaine use changes the brain’s chemistry and wiring. Initial use can be so enticing and enjoyable that a person will use the drug again in the belief that they can control their use.

However, the drug will continue to overstimulate the brain’s reward system and reinforce drug-using behaviour. This can eventually lead to dependence and addiction, which are serious issues that require professional help to overcome. 

What Are the Signs of a Cocaine Addiction?

Here are some signs that may signify that a person is addicted to cocaine: 

• Continuous use of the drug despite its negative effects.
• Physical signs, such as weight loss, dilated pupils, nasal damage, and track marks (for those who inject cocaine).
• Neglecting responsibilities to continue using cocaine.
• Using the drug to deal with negative emotions or to avoid unpleasant feelings.
• Facing legal and financial problems because of continuous cocaine use.
• Experiencing sudden and intense mood swings.
• Going through withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit or reduce cocaine use.

Addiction Treatment for Cocaine Abuse

People who eventually become addicted to cocaine are highly recommended to seek professional treatment. Professional treatment teaches clients how to manage their symptoms and develop healthy coping mechanisms so that they can quit using cocaine and stay sober.

Most addiction treatment programmes start with detox – a process that helps rid the body of the drug while managing withdrawal symptoms. 

Next is rehab, where clients receive intensive therapies and learn coping skills to manage the symptoms of their addiction. Rehab can happen while living in a recovery facility, or it can also be conducted while the client lives at home. 

Treatment for Cocaine Addiction at Sierra Recovery

Addiction to drugs like cocaine can have harrowing consequences in the long run. Addressing the problem as soon as possible can prevent these complications from happening. 

At Sierra Recovery, our team takes the time to learn more about your situation to craft a personalised programme that meets your needs. We’re here for you every step of the way so that you can live a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you think you are ready to take the first step toward recovery, we can help.