Cocaine is a stimulant drug derived from the coca plant. First synthesized over 100 years ago and used in common products like over-the-counter remedies and even Coca-Cola, cocaine soon became recognized as addictive. An accessible street drug in powder form or as smokable crack, cocaine sends thousands of people into cocaine addiction treatment programs annually. However, we know that only about a tenth of those who need rehab receive it.
At Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge (PAATC), meeting our clients where they are, at the moment that matters, is our goal. We provide addiction treatment for cocaine, other stimulant abuse, and other substance use disorders. Our evidence-based treatment, faith-centered options, and inpatient and outpatient programs provide a strong platform to build a sober life. Find out more by calling PAATC at 888.546.2579 or using our online form.
Cocaine Abuse and Addiction
Five million Americans turn to cocaine every year for many reasons. Some hope the stimulant will keep them alert for long periods so they can work, play, or avoid sleep. Others may be drawn to the high that helps them cope with depression or other, possibly undiagnosed, mental health challenges.
Cocaine enters the brain’s chemistry, dismantling the normal production of important neurotransmitters that regulate emotions and enable feelings of pleasure, attachment, and contentment. Dependence soon follows as the brain relies on cocaine to function.
Those with a cocaine addiction tend to avoid the crash after use by diving into prolonged binge cycles, which take a toll on the body and mind. When the binge ends, the crash begins. Normal functioning during either stage is difficult. Once someone recovers from the crash, cravings lead to another binge cycle.
How Can You Tell if Someone Has a Cocaine Addiction?
Some of the tell-tale indicators of cocaine abuse include:
Binge and Crash
The energy boosts your body experiences with the first rush soon feel like an engine revving out of control. But the initial euphoria of what seems like the clarity of vision and limitless vitality keeps you coming back for more as you sustain the high for hours or even days. This cycle is a clear sign of cocaine abuse and possible addiction.
Physical Side-Effects
The numerous ways you can use cocaine will impact your body’s signs of abuse, like
- Snorting leads to nosebleeds, sinus issues, sniffing, sore throat, and in some cases, deviated septum.
- Smoking crack can cause severe respiratory illness.
- The injection will leave scars and track marks.
- Bloodshot eyes
- Pupil dilation
- Weight loss
Mental Health Consequences
The toll cocaine use takes on the mind is significant. Common signs include:
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Mania
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Delusional thinking
These co-occurring disorders and challenges require mental health intervention during rehab treatment.
Signs of Withdrawal
A dead giveaway that someone is suffering from a cocaine use disorder is the beginning of withdrawal if the drug is unavailable. Cocaine withdrawal symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Muscle spasms
- Nausea
Treatment for Cocaine Abuse and Addiction at PAATC
Stimulants like cocaine are, like so many psychoactive drugs, incredibly hard on your body and exhausting for your mind. When you are addicted, the impact on your entire life can be disruptive and outright devastating. You deserve to receive support and help as you consider your recovery options. You also deserve to live a life of wellness and balance in which you can enjoy the ups and navigate the challenges without suffering the turmoil of addiction.
Let PAATC support you in your recovery from cocaine. Our evidence-based treatments are designed to usher you onto the path of recovery with maximum support and compassionate care. Use our online form to connect with someone on our staff, or you can dial 888.546.2579 today.
