Cocaine is a drug that is smoked, injected, or inhaled and affects the brain almost immediately. The brain rapidly releases dopamine, which causes pleasurable effects. When levels of dopamine drop, withdrawal symptoms start. The unpleasant withdrawal symptoms cause a person to use again.
Cocaine is a highly addictive drug. A person can become addicted after one use, but as with any drug, each person’s experience is unique to them. The first time using cocaine will produce the most intense euphoric sensation. Cocaine causes changes in the brain after repeated use.
How a Cocaine Addiction Develops
When a person uses cocaine, excessive levels of the brain chemical dopamine are released, which results in a pleasurable, euphoric feeling. Every time a person uses cocaine, the levels of pleasure decrease. Tolerance builds up almost immediately, which causes a person to use more in higher doses. Tolerance occurs when the body gets used to the drug and the person needs more to achieve the same pleasurable sensation as the first time they used it. The development of addiction occurs as a person takes more potent doses in larger amounts
A wide range of health problems is caused by cocaine use, including heart failure, respiratory issues, stroke, and seizures. Some of the physical symptoms of cocaine use include nosebleeds, insomnia, nasal damage, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, and nausea just to name a few. Cocaine also contributes to psychological problems. Some common symptoms are restlessness, depression, anxiety, paranoia, panic attacks, and psychosis.
A number of factors contribute to an individual’s risk of addiction. Genetics play a huge role in drug addiction. Other factors to consider are physical or emotional trauma, peer pressure, family dynamics, stress, and personality traits. These characteristics contribute individually or in combination with other factors. Addiction to cocaine puts a person at risk for relationship problems, job loss, financial troubles, and incarceration.
When an addicted person stops using cocaine, they experience withdrawals. Some symptoms of withdrawal include extreme discomfort, intense cravings for cocaine, restlessness, and nightmares. Cocaine users are at high risk for other drug addictions, post-traumatic stress, depressive disorders, and other psychological problems. Withdrawal from cocaine is very challenging but manageable with the right treatment for the addiction.
Treatment for addiction is the start of a new life. We know how important treatment is. That’s why we’re offering the best in our treatment programs at The Springboard Center. Call us today for information on our residential treatment programs in the Permian Basin: 432-620-0255
