Cocaine can be used topically, snorted or injected, which may affect the potency of the drug, but all uses produce basically the same effects. Effects of cocaine can be found physically and psychologically and can cause severe damage both short and long term. Those who use cocaine should be aware of its effects, and those who suspect a loved one is using should be on the lookout for symptoms.
The pleasurable effects that cocaine produces are:
- Increased energy
- A feeling of euphoria
- A feeling of supremacy
- An elevated mood
The combination of these effects can be very pleasant short term, but there are also very long term physical and psychological effects that occur with long-term use. Also, since cocaine speeds up the heart rate, a risk of a heart attack is possible with even the first cocaine use, and every use.
The not so pleasant immediate effects of cocaine include:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Insomnia
- Irritability
Any time cocaine is taken, there is a possibility of not only a heart attack, but also a stroke. Cocaine constricts the blood vessels, which compromises the heart, lungs and circulation. Permanent lung damage can also occur. Ulcers and other gastric ailments are common among those who use cocaine on a long term basis. Overall, cocaine wreaks havoc on the body, and also the psyche.
Extreme paranoia is also common, not only short term, but long term with cocaine use. Many people experience seizures and/or violent behavior after using cocaine. Hallucinations and a disconnection with reality may also be expected with prolonged cocaine use. Since cocaine is highly addictive, most people will suffer long term psychological problems. The pleasant short term effects of cocaine keep people going back for more, despite the damaging long term effects.
Cocaine binging, which many people do once they become addicted, can bring on life-threatening health and psychological damage more quickly. It also increases the chances of heart attack and/or stroke because of the effects on the blood vessels leading to the heart and lungs. Cocaine binging involves taking the cocaine repeatedly every 30 minutes or more in order to maintain the high. While any use of cocaine stresses the body (and the mind), binging tends to overload a person’s system to the breaking point. It is similar to playing Russian Roulette, all for the sake of a high.
If you want to help a loved one addicted to cocaine and are looking for an effective drug rehab center, please call Narconon where a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor can answer your questions: 1-877-782-7409.
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