Clean Recovery Centers Marks Cocaine Side Effects

Sarasota, FL – Clean Recovery Centers has published a new blog post that dives into the side effects of cocaine and just how dangerous they can be.

“The effects of cocaine can vary depending on the route of ingestion. Cocaine can be snorted, rubbed on the gums, swallowed, or injected. In crystal form, known as crack, it can be smoked or added to other substances that can be smoked. These different methods of intake can affect how fast cocaine works in the body and how long the side effects last,” the article reads.

When cocaine is snorted, the effects can be felt rapidly and last around 15-30 minutes. Swallowing cocaine can prolong when the effects set in, usually around 20 minutes. Similar to snorting, injecting cocaine allows the effects to last around 15-30 minutes. When crack is smoked, the effects are very short-lived, lasting only 5-10 minutes.

The most common initial side effects of cocaine are extreme bouts of energy, hypersensitivity to sound, sight, and touch, paranoia with increased distrust of others, mood swings such as happiness or irritability, and decreased appetite. As use progresses, the short-term effects include headaches, heart attacks or strokes, irritability, and weight loss.

“Cocaine works in the brain by releasing the neurotransmitter dopamine. This is the reward chemical, and when cocaine activates it, feelings of intense pleasure and euphoria are released. Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to these feelings and begins to reduce the amount of dopamine transmitters. This requires more cocaine to receive the same results. As a result, the body and mind feel intense negative feelings when cocaine is not in the system,” the article continues.

One of the biggest negative side effects is the psychological toll cocaine can take on the mind. This can include anxiety, irritability, depression, cravings, and paranoia. It is very important to seek help from family, friends, or medical professionals if depression or paranoia symptoms become severe. Thoughts of violence, self-harm, or suicide can become overwhelming and result in dire consequences.

Besides psychological effects, the physical effects of cocaine use can also pose health threats. Cocaine restricts blood vessels, which can cut off blood flow to certain areas. In the sinus cavity, the loss of blood flow can cause permanent damage and make breathing difficult. When swallowed, the intestines experience blood loss and impairment. Rashes or skin lesions can also form due to the lack of blood flow and reactions to different cutting agents.

Cocaine can also alter the brain’s chemistry, as it activates dopamine. Dopamine is the brain’s reward chemical, and when stimulated, feelings of intense pleasure occur. Similar reactions happen while eating good food or having sex.

Clean Recovery Centers has a trained staff and unique program that can help rewire the brain, allowing their clients to enjoy everyday life again free of cocaine. They have options that focus on mental health, wellness, and skill building in order to create healthy habits and coping skills. The goal of Clean Recovery Centers is to create safe and effective treatment plans while tending to each client’s unique needs.

For those who wish to learn more about Clean Recovery Centers and what their cocaine use disorder program is about can call them at (888) 330-2532 or visit their website. They are always available to answer questions or schedule an appointment.