Quick Facts about Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine saw a meteoric rise during the 20th century and remains an issue today. This highly addictive drug stimulates the central nervous system when snorted, smoked or injected. Millions of people abuse cocaine every year, and many become addicted to the drug. cocaine addiction leads to myriad health and social problems.
Here is some important information about cocaine addiction that anyone who uses the drugs, knows someone who is using or thinking about using themselves needs to know.
- Cocaine is a highly addictive drug, and is known to create strong craving in the individual, even after only a short period of use.
- Cocaine was once thought to be a harmless drug and was even listed as an ingredient in Coca-Cola during the product's initial heyday.
- When people discovered the euphoric effects of the drug, they quickly became addicted in large numbers. At this point, the U.S. government stepped in and outlawed the use of cocaine in commercial product.
- The euphoria and "hyper" feelings experienced after using cocaine generally dissipate in about 20 or 30 minutes and are replaced by anxiety and a desire to use the drug again.
- "Crack" cocaine became popular in the 1980's and 90's due to the inexpensive street price and the speed in which the drug entered the bloodstream via the lungs.
- Because the drug causes rapid heart rate and increased blood pressure, individuals with a heart condition or high blood pressure put themselves at great risk when using cocaine.
- Research has shown that long-term cocaine use affects the decision-making ability of the individual. The study states that those using cocaine over a long period of time have difficulty remembering important information or memorizing basic facts.
- There is a proven link between cocaine use and heart disease. Those who use cocaine are considered to be high-risk for heart attacks and blockage of the arteries.
- Among the withdrawal symptoms associated with Cocaine use are anxiety, paranoia, sleeplessness, weight loss, convulsions and depression (including suicidal thoughts).
- Snorting or injecting cocaine can be even more detrimental to an individual's health than snorting it. These methods have been known to cause permanent heart damage, severe chest pains and breathing disorders.
- Scientific studies have shown that women who use cocaine when pregnant are more likely to have babies born with low birth weight, small heads and shorter body sizes.
- Cocaine can cause a wide variety of health problems, including:
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Blurred vision
- Vomiting
- High anxiety
- Irritability
- Constricted blood vessels
- Dilated pupils
- Nasal infections
- Nose bleeds
- Rapid breathing
- Sweating
- Violent behavior
- Twitching
- Hallucinations
- Chest pain
Michael's House understands the specific needs of the cocaine addict, and features truly groundbreaking techniques for recovery from addiction. From the moment an individual enters Michael's House they will be treated with dignity and respect. A specialized drug rehab program will be created to meet their specific needs.
