Cocaine is a stimulant drug that has been one of the most popular drug addictions and a major part of emergency room visits. Most cocaine is harvested and created into a powder in South America and imported into the United States. It’s bought illegally, and it can be injected, insufflated (sniffed), swallowed, or even applied rectally. It is one of the most expensive drugs in the illegal market, but it is still one of the most popular among drug addicts.
Signs of Cocaine Abuse
Because cocaine is “cut” and diluted in so many ways, the signs of abuse vary among purity and the chemical with which it was cut. There are several common factors that are a part of cocaine addiction, however, and the drug addiction symptoms are common among all drug addicts.
CNS and Psychiatric Effects. Most cocaine drug users have a strong sense of happiness and increased energy. Cocaine addicts also feel a sense of grandeur which is often referred to as cocainomania. With increase and prolonged use, the good feelings the addict has will give in to restlessness, apprehension, cold sweats, tremors, twitching, and even hallucinations. The major side effects of cocaine drug use are deadly such as seizures, loss of consciousness, and irregular heartbeats.
Brain Side Effects. The alteration of the brain to respond to environmental stimulus is greatly decreased during cocaine addiction. Dizziness, loss of consciousness, and seizures are among the most serious, but cocaine effects many neurotransmitters in the brain including norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid.
Ear, Nose, and Throat Effects. Most cocaine drug abuse users eventually have irritations and extended deformities in their ears, nose, and throat. Of these side effects, nose bleeds and constant nasal stuffiness are among the most common. Severe cocaine drug abuse leads to a degradation of the septum (the membrane separating the nasal passages) causing difficulties in breathing. Cocaine drug abuse users try to counteract the nasal damage using over-the-counter products creating an even worse condition.
Cardiovascular Effects. Cocaine abuse leads to an increased heart rate and a narrowing of the blood vessels. Many emergency room encounters with overdoses in cocaine abuse involve severe chest pains. The rabid heart rates lead to heart disease and a weakening in the walls of the aorta. The cardiovascular side effects are most disturbing since they can lead to sudden death from cardiac arrest.
If you suspect your loved one has a cocaine addiction, watch for signs of an overdose and call emergency personnel as soon as possible. Severe overdose can lead to seizures and death, so it is important to watch heart rate when loved ones have fallen to the urges of cocaine addiction.
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