If you are someone who is suffering from substance abuse issues, you are probably looking for help. Countless substances can be addictive, and some of them are legal, such as alcohol. One common example of an addictive substance is cocaine. If you suspect someone close to you is struggling with a cocaine addiction, there are a few essential points that you should keep in mind. Cocaine effects can be devastating not only for the individual but also for their family members and friends. At Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge, we are here to help you learn more about crack cocaine. Contact our team today at 888.546.2579 to learn more about the treatment options at our cocaine addiction treatment program.
An Overview of Cocaine: A Powerful Stimulant
Cocaine is a powerful drug that falls under the category of a stimulant. As a stimulant, people who take cocaine will feel like they can think much more quickly. In addition, cocaine may make people feel like they do not have to go to sleep. It could also have devastating effects on someone’s heart.
The purified chemical first came from these leaves more than 100 years ago. In the early 20th century, purified cocaine was actually the main ingredient in numerous tonics and elixirs, including some popular sodas. Eventually, people realized that cocaine is an incredibly addictive substance. If used repeatedly, it can have a devastating impact on someone’s neurological system’s structure and function. Thus, it is now illegal.
Types of Cocaine
While cocaine can come in many forms, the two most common types are powder cocaine and crack cocaine.
Powder cocaine is a white powder that people usually snort through their noses. Crack cocaine is made by mixing powder cocaine with water and another chemical to create small rocks. People smoke crack cocaine using a pipe.
Cocaine’s Short-Term Effects
Cocaine’s effects can be felt almost immediately after taking it. The high from snorting cocaine can last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, while the high from smoking cocaine can last a few minutes.
Some of the short-term effects of cocaine include:
- Increased energy
- Feelings of happiness and euphoria
- Increased confidence
- Talkative
- Feeling like you don’t need to sleep
- Paranoia
Cocaine’s Long-Term Effects
The long-term effects of cocaine are devastating. Cocaine can cause changes in someone’s brain that can last for years after they stop using it. These changes can make it incredibly difficult for someone to think clearly, make decisions, or feel happy without using cocaine. Some other long-term effects of cocaine use include:
- Aggressive or violent behavior
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Hallucinations
- Kidney damage
- Liver damage
- Lung damage
If you or someone you love is struggling with cocaine addiction, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible.
What Are the Effects of a Cocaine Overdose?
One of the dangers of cocaine is that people can overdose on it relatively quickly. Because it is so addictive, many people want to take more and more cocaine to achieve even more potent effects. Therefore, it is important to understand what the cocaine effects may look like in the event of an overdose. Someone who has overdosed on crack cocaine may show:
- Their heart rate usually begins to rise
- Their blood pressure will start to spike
- They will feel tremendous chest pain
- They’ll start to feel nauseous and may begin to vomit
- They will start to develop tremors
- Many people start to show signs of anxiety
- They may start to feel panicky
For all of these reasons, everyone needs to know what they should do in the event of a cocaine overdose.
In the event of an acute overdose, someone needs to call 911 immediately. The first place that someone has to go after showing signs of cocaine intoxication is to the emergency room. After medical doctors have stabilized someone, it is essential to start treating the addiction.
How to Treat Cocaine
Similar to other types of addiction, treating a cocaine addiction can be incredibly challenging. The first step is for everyone to go through the detox process. It is then essential to continue working with trained mental health professionals on coping skills that can help someone maintain their sobriety in the long term. We can help you with all of these issues from start to finish. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to crack cocaine, trust the professionals from Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge.
Contact Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge
Cocaine addiction can be devastating for the individual as well as his or her family members or friends. If you or someone you know is looking for assistance with cocaine addiction, Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge is here to help you. We will work with you on an individual basis, customizing a treatment plan that will help you protect your sobriety in the long term. Contact us today at 888.546.2579 to learn more about the treatments, programs, and services that we provide.
