Crack cocaine is a highly addictive drug that is extremely dangerous for the user. The “highs” are very short, typically about 15 minutes, resulting in the user taking repeated doses of the drug, Which significantly increases the risk of overdose. Crack is severely damaging to both the mind and the body, with some sources estimating it can take as little as one hit of the substance for the brain to be effectively rewired. If you or a loved one are addicted to crack cocaine, seek treatment. There are substance abuse treatment centers ready to help you start your journey to addiction recovery.
Side Effects of Cocaine, Withdrawal Symptoms, and Signs of Overdose
Using crack cocaine can affect a person drastically. The list of side effects of cocaine is extensive. Some of the side effects include the following:
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Dilated pupils
- Paranoia
- Headaches
- Increased blood pressure, body temperature, and heart rate
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle twitches
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Psychosis
- Respiratory issues
- Seizures
- Violent behavior
Withdrawal symptoms may include the following:
- Agitation
- Depression
- Muscle aches
- Changes in sleep pattern
- Nightmares
- Increased appetite
- Difficulty focusing
- Exhaustion
- Paranoia
- Cravings for crack cocaine
- Slowed reflexes
Signs of an overdose
- Agitation
- Black phlegm
- Itchiness
- Cold sweats
- Irregular heartbeat
- Cardiac arrest or stroke seizures
- Psychosis
- Death
If you are battling an addiction to crack cocaine, seek help. Addiction recovery is possible for you or your loved one if you suffer from drug addiction.
Types of Treatment for Cocaine Addiction
Getting help for a crack cocaine addiction is very important. This substance abuse addiction can be life-threatening. The first part of treatment is detox done through medically assisted detoxification. If not done under a doctor’s care, the side effects of cocaine detox could be dangerous. After detox, the patient will go to inpatient rehabilitation treatment, where the 24-hour staff will help them learn relapse prevention, life skills, and coping mechanisms. Other treatment options include outpatient rehab, 12-step programs, sober-living homes, cognitive behavioral therapy, and support groups. If you or a loved one is addicted to crack cocaine, talk to a behavioral health professional and see your next steps.
