Local Rehab Educates on Kidney Damage & Cocaine

Tampa, FL – Clean Recovery Centers posted an educational blog about kidney damage and cocaine use. The effects of cocaine on the body reach deep into the organs, and the kidneys are no stranger to feeling the consequences.

“Cocaine is a highly addictive substance derived from Erythroxylon coca Lam leaves, a species of the coca plant cultivated in South America. Medical practitioners once used cocaine to block pain before modern-day anesthetics were available.

“Today, cocaine is used recreationally and can change the way the brain functions as well as hurt the body’s vital organs. It is considered a Schedule II drug, which means that it has a high potential for dependence. People typically use two forms of cocaine: the water-soluble salt form and the water-insoluble base form. The salt form comes in a powder, which can be injected, swallowed, or snored. The base form is combined with water and other chemicals, heated to remove the hydrochloride, and looks like a crystal rock. This form is smoked and is usually known as crack,” the article states.

Cocaine produces a stimulating effect by increasing levels of dopamine in the brain, especially in the area that regulates pleasure and emotions. This buildup of dopamine causes temporary feelings of intense energy, alertness, and euphoria. Other short-term effects of cocaine include extreme irritability, loss of appetite, feelings of happiness, and sensitivity to light, sound, or touch. People who use cocaine over a long period of time often experience health problems including heart disease, stroke, headaches, seizures, sexual dysfunction, digestive issues, and bowel decay. The more a person uses cocaine, the more is needed to produce the same feelings. Higher dosages can lead to increased tolerance or overdose.

Almost half of cocaine-related emergency room visits are because of acute kidney issues. Repeated use of cocaine can cause dead tissue to form in the kidneys, leading to improper function. Cocaine can also cause plaque to accumulate in the walls of the renal arteries, leading to a condition known as atherosclerosis. Vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain are signs of damage occurring to the kidneys.

“The kidney performs many vital functions for the body. The most essential role is to eliminate waste by filtering blood and creating urine. Urine is stored in the kidneys, transported to the bladder, and eventually excreted. The kidneys produce urine by combining toxins, extra fluid, and waste products.

“The bladder and the kidneys work in conjunction to prevent excess fluid buildup and maintain the proper number of electrolytes within the body. Cocaine eventually ends up in the kidneys and can damage the organ’s essential functions after repeated use. Heavy cocaine use can lead to rhabdomyolysis, which occurs when the muscle tissues break down and enter the bloodstream. Rhabdomyolysis can cause kidney failure if left unchecked,” the article continues.

The best way to address kidney problems and cocaine use is to seek treatment. Cocaine use disorder is a condition that can be healed through proper outlets and help. If the kidneys are in distress, stopping use and seeking medical attention can stop the damage from progressing further.

Clean Recovery Centers is a local rehab along the Suncoast that has helped hundreds to get clean, live clean, and stay clean. Their program utilizes a unique, three-phase approach unlike any in the area, and attends to all facets of addiction.

To learn more about Clean Recovery Centers, call (888) 330-2532 or visit their website.