What Is Cocaine Addiction?

Cocaine abuse involves the ongoing, detrimental use of cocaine, a powerful stimulant that comes from the coca plant. Cocaine addiction typically involves excessive consumption, causing harm to your health, your relationships, and overall quality of life. Cocaine abuse can lead to addiction, tolerance, and dependence, where users feel a strong urge to keep using it despite suffering negative consequences. It’s a significant health issue that often requires professional intervention from addiction treatment centers like New Life Recovery.

What Does Cocaine Look Like?

Cocaine is found in two primary forms – powder and rock. Powder cocaine is white and crystalline, often mixed with other substances for snorting or injecting. On the other hand, crack cocaine is in rock form. It is solid and crystalline and is primarily smoked. 

Who Uses It?

Cocaine usage spans many different groups of people. It is used recreationally for its euphoric effects, and high-achieving individuals such as students or professionals use it to enhance performance. Furthermore, individuals struggling with addiction to the drug often find themselves increasing their usage over time.

How Does It Make You Feel?

Cocaine triggers intense sensations of euphoria, heightened energy, increased alertness, and self-assurance. Users may also feel a sense of invincibility and loss of appetite.

How Long Does the Feeling Last?

The effects of cocaine are short-lived, usually lasting between 15 to 30 minutes. Due to the short duration, cocaine users often begin to use the drug more and more to feel its effects, leading to increased tolerance and addiction. 

Is Cocaine Addictive?

Cocaine is highly addictive. Continued use often leads to increased tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction, making quitting on your own very difficult. At New Life Recovery, we can help make quitting easier and more comfortable. 

Is Cocaine Dangerous?

Cocaine abuse or prolonged use carries significant health dangers, including respiratory complications, cardiovascular issues, and neurological problems. Overdose is a grave concern, and long-term usage can result in serious physical and mental health repercussions.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Using Cocaine?

Long-term cocaine addiction can lead to a variety of damaging effects on both physical and mental health. Some of these long-term consequences may include:

• Heart disease, heart attacks, and irregular heart rhythms
• Respiratory issues, chronic coughing, asthma, and respiratory failure
• Stroke, seizures, and cognitive impairment
• Abdominal pain, nausea, and bowel ischemia
• Depression, anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis
• Liver and Kidney damage 
• Increased risk of infections due to risky behaviors associated with drug use
• Hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues
• Tooth decay and gum disease
• Interpersonal difficulties, strained relationships, and legal issues

It’s important to note that the severity of these effects varies depending on factors such as how long you used cocaine, how much you used, and your overall health. Getting professional help at New Life Recovery will address the symptoms of cocaine addiction and help mitigate its long-term consequences.

Signs & Symptoms of Cocaine Abuse

Cocaine addiction has various signs and symptoms that impact both behavior and physical well-being. It’s essential to understand that while these signs don’t automatically indicate addiction, they could signal a potential problem. 

• Dilated pupils
• Restlessness and excessive activity
• Weight loss
• Increased secrecy
• Withdrawal from social interactions
• Short-lived bursts of intense happiness and confidence
• Irritability and agitation
• Paranoia
• Impaired decision-making
• Difficulty focusing
• Cardiovascular issues
• Respiratory difficulties
• Persistent nosebleeds or nasal septum damage

If you or someone you know displays these signs, New Life Recovery can help. Reach out to one of our specialists to explore your options for cocaine detoxification. 

Benefits of Cocaine Detox Program

When you attend our cocaine detox program at New Life Recovery, you’ll benefit in multiple ways. You will be monitored by medical professionals to help manage your withdrawal symptoms and to help prevent any medical complications. Our secure facility is drug-free, which minimizes the risk of relapse and provides a supportive atmosphere for your first steps toward recovery. At New Life Recovery, you’ll find that our structured programs address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Our treatment team employs a comprehensive approach, implementing safety measures to minimize harm. Detox serves as a foundational step, laying the groundwork for further treatments, and because we offer all levels of care, a seamless transition into inpatient or outpatient programs for ongoing recovery. 

Where Can I Find Help, Treatment, and Support?

New Life Recovery is here to guide you on your journey to recovery. Our programs offer medical and emotional support, evidence-based treatments, and the expertise of licensed therapists. Contact one of our admissions experts today to get started. 

How To Pay for Cocaine Detox Program

Many of our clients rely on their healthcare insurance to help with the cost of treatment. We are in-network with most major insurance companies. Some clients choose self-pay or other options to attend our rehab. However, don’t allow concerns about treatment expenses to hinder your progress. Contact New Life Recovery to explore your payment options.