Drugs are bad for people as most know, but that does not stop them from abusing them. Addiction is not about picking and choosing a drug to be addicted to, it just takes hold of those who try it once, or keep using over time, and it is non-discriminating in who it impacts. Addiction can be harmful physically to the body, putting a damper on the immune system and putting people at greater risk for cancer and other issues. Find out why this happens and how to seek help for addiction.

Immune System Suppression

Addictive substances are detrimental to a person’s immune system. Opioid use depresses the respiratory system and inhibits their immune response. Cocaine can increase a person’s risk for developing infections. Addictive substances compromise the immune system by weakening the body’s ability to respond to pathogens. Alcohol is a main culprit in spurring on:

  • Fatigue
  • Exhaustion
  • Dehydration

Prolonged use of addictive substances contributes to organ damage and failure such as alcohol derived cirrhosis. Excessive use of alcohol may cause autoimmunity with the body attacking its own cells.

Lung Cancer Risk

Chronic substance use disorders induce potentially deadly diseases in a person’s body including heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers. The three most likely federally illicit addictive substances to cause respiratory or lung complications include marijuana, crack cocaine, and opiates. Injection needle use of any substance exposes people to diseases like HIV and Hepatitis C. Hepatitis C and HIV compromise the immune system, giving rise to lung infections, tuberculosis, and cancer. Sarcoma is also likely, a type of cancer that impacts the lymph nodes or blood vessels, and causes tumors on the skin. The only way to combat these issues is to seek help for addiction and substance abuse before it damages the body. It can also help to find support for any health issues with consistent medical care in recovery from people who understand addiction.

The Springboard Center’s addiction treatment programs are tailored to meet the needs of each client. By utilizing a set of diverse methods of addiction treatment, we are able to deal with your addiction from all angles and concentrate on every aspect of your healing process. It is important to recognize that many of our services offer a group setting and environment, so that the client spends time with other people affected by the same chronic disease and problems. 432-620-0255