Cocaine abuse can lead to significant physical dependence and is increasingly acknowledged as one of the most hazardous and widely used illicit drugs in use today. Approximately 30 million Americans have tried cocaine, although estimates suggest the figure could be as high as 40 million, according to the National Library of Medicine. Despite the well-known dangers of cocaine use, the rate of drug overdose deaths involving cocaine has increased in recent years, according to the CDC. While an overdose death is the most consequential danger of cocaine abuse, there are many negative short term effects of cocaine a user can experience.
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How Long Do the Effects of Cocaine Last?
Cocaine is not a long-acting drug, with the “high” only lasting between 15 to 60 minutes, depending on how it’s inhaled, the dosage, and the tolerance level of the user. When snorted, which is the most popular method, the most intense high lasts about 15 to 30 minutes. If smoked or injected, the effects can be more intense but shorter, lasting about 5 to 15 minutes.
What Are the Physical Effects of Cocaine?
The most consequential physical effect of cocaine use is death, which makes knowing how to recognize cocaine overdose symptoms extremely important. The rate of drug overdose deaths associated with cocaine was stable from 2009 to 2013, according to the CDC. However, this number saw a dramatic rise, nearly tripling from 1.6 per 100,000 individuals in 2013 to 4.5 in 2018.
One of the most frequent physical effects of cocaine use is nosebleeds, as this potent substance significantly constricts blood vessels and harms the sensitive tissues within the nose. When snorted, the cocaine powder comes into direct contact with the nasal septum, leading to immediate irritation and swelling. With continued use, the tissues in the nose become progressively damaged and more delicate, making them more susceptible to bleeding—even during regular activities like blowing one’s nose or with ongoing cocaine consumption.
The harm caused by cocaine use in the nose can be progressive and may ultimately result in lasting effects known as “cocaine face.” The drug irritates the nasal passages, steadily damaging the cartilage and bone of the septum. Cocaine restricts blood flow, which impairs the nose’s natural healing processes that would typically aid in tissue repair. Additionally, street cocaine is often mixed with other harmful substances, such as baking soda, which can lead to increased tissue damage and more frequent nosebleeds.
What Are the Psychological Effects of Cocaine?
Regular use of cocaine alters the brain by increasing the production of stress hormones, like cortisol, which can result in issues such as high blood pressure and damage to the cardiovascular system. This change can lead to heightened feelings of anxiety, the emergence of panic disorders, or difficulties with violent or aggressive behaviors. In some cases, it may also trigger symptoms of psychosis or paranoia. For people who already have a predisposition to psychosis or schizophrenia, using cocaine can increase the likelihood of activating these conditions and exacerbating their symptoms.
The impact of cocaine is primarily on a person’s mood and behavior rather than on physical signs. When trying cocaine for the first time, people frequently display heightened moods, excessive talkativeness, and feelings of euphoria, all stemming from an artificial boost in neurotransmitter levels. However, with prolonged use, these neurotransmitters deplete, leading the brain to struggle to produce adequate amounts in a timely manner.
How to Stop the Effects of Cocaine?
Quitting cocaine use and seeking treatment is the most effective way to address the short-term effects of cocaine. Opting for detoxification in a medically supervised program offers individuals a secure setting to navigate the detox process and withdrawal symptoms with the guidance of licensed healthcare professionals. While cocaine withdrawal usually doesn’t lead to severe physical symptoms, it can significantly impact mental health.
Overcome the Short Term Effects of Cocaine at Muse Treatment
Muse Treatment provides an effective addiction treatment program that helps patients overcome the physical and mental control cocaine has on their bodies. We work individually with each of our patients to explore the ways cocaine impacts the brain and find the proper treatment to overcome the addiction. Muse Treatment is dedicated to helping patients overcome cocaine use, guiding them toward a sober life from the dangers of cocaine. We provide the proper guidance and support to help patients address the underlying causes and find healthy, legal ways to manage any unwanted short term effects of cocaine. Please contact our cocaine addiction treatment center in Los Angeles by calling 800-426-1818 today to learn more about how we can help.
External Sources
- National Libary of Medicine – Adverse health consequences of cocaine abuse
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Increase in Drug Overdose Deaths Involving Cocaine: United States
- National Institute on Drug Abuse — Cocaine
The post Short Term Health Effects and Dangers Of Cocaine Use appeared first on Muse Treatment.
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