COCAINE ADDICTION
SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant drug that usually comes in powder form and snorted through the nose, in crack form, it may be smoked, and either can be prepared and injected. Society tends to glamourise this drug, but the reality is, drug addiction is a debilitating and life-threatening disease, that the user is often desperate to be free from.
It causes a powerful "high" that leads to euphoria, talkativeness and an increase in energy- the effect is exactly why many professionals turn to this drug in an attempt to "get ahead". However, it raises blood pressure and the heart rate, often to dangerous, and fatal levels. Many users say they felt an addiction to cocaine from the very first time of using, and as with other drugs, the body starts to become dependent and they need more, and more to feel the same effects.
Cocaine addiction claims many lives, with a spike in overdoses over recent years. Because Cocaine is so powerful and dangerous, it is recommended to quit with the support of professional advice and support. Despite the strong hold that it takes over its users and no matter how hopeless you may feel, recovery is possible, and many, many people have learned how to break free and live a healthy and rewarding life in recovery.
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If you, or someone you know is struggling with cocaine abuse, give us a call. We offer free advice on the best way to get clean, and although we believe rehab is the best way to do this, you will be under absolutely no obligation to work through us.
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WHAT IS DRUG ADDICTION?
Addiction can be defined as an individual repeatedly and uncontrollably taking a drug, despite the harm and consequences it causes. Repeating and increasing the use of the drug, ultimately leads to a physical and/or emotional dependency to that feeling.
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Use of the drug continues because of the pleasure or value it gives the user. We see it as an all-consuming drive to alter feelings, perceptions and experiences. Regardless of the drug of choice, continued drug use can become a serious problem, resulting in a whole host of devastating consequences. Eventually, relationships, work, health, wellbeing, and ability to function every day, will suffer.
Addiction affects people from all walks of life and does not discriminate from any social, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. It's isolating and people suffering often feel alone, like they are the only people suffering, and no one understands their problems. The truth is though, there are millions of people suffering, and professional help and support is available to everyone.
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It is uncomfortable to face the truth that people die from addiction or its effects, but they do- every day. We know it doesn't have to be this way. Millions of people have also found a way out and into recovery.
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SIGNS OF COCAINE ADDICTION
When you are in addiction, it can be hard to see that your using has gotten out of control. Signs of cocaine addiction can vary from person to person, and also depend on quantity and frequency used. Here are some of the most common signs that you've moved from recreational use to addiction, and it's time to seek help.
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being unable to limit or control the amount you use.
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being secretive and hiding your using
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an increase in the amount you need to use to get the same effect.
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having physical urges or cravings for drugs that affect your concentration.
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seeking drugs to the detriment of your personal, family or work responsibilities.
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spending money on drugs that you can't really afford.
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you lose interest in looking after yourself and your hygiene starts to suffer.
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constant thinking about how you can obtain and use drugs.
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investing increased time getting and consuming, or recovering from its effects.
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experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you're unable to take drug.
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being dishonest or deceptive about your drug use.
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fighting with friends and family about your using.
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a persistent desire to give up or control, that continues to be unsuccessful.
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using drugs to cope with depression, anxiety or stress.
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​​important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of use of the substance.
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repeatedly putting yourself into risky or dangerous situations.
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drug use continues despite knowledge of a physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or made worse by the substance.
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cocaine users may experience nose bleeds, or sores around the nasal area.
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rapid jaw movement, jaw locking, teeth clenching, tremors and red eyes.
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needle marks if cocaine is used intravenously.
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SYMPTOMS OF COCAINE ADDICTION
Many people view cocaine as a low-risk and exciting drug, completely unaware of how highly addictive it is and the dangers of the side effects. Cocaine releases huge amounts of dopamine into the brain, increasing pleasure along with heart rate and blood pressure.
Once the effects of cocaine have worn off it is extremely difficult for the body to return to normal levels of dopamine and this results in the person feeling an intense low that can last for several days.
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Short-term effects may include ​
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Rapid heart rate
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Dilated pupils
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Increased body temperature
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Increased blood pressure
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A headache
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Nausea
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Abdominal cramping
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Heart attack and stroke in the case of overdose
Chronic effects may include ​
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Rapid heart rate
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Nosebleeds from sniffing
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Constricted blood vessels
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Malnourishment, due to cocaine decreasing the appetite
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Heart failure
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Stroke
IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE THIS WAY...
The 21Renew team has over 36 years in helping addicts to recover.
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Read more about our revolutionary program, or contact us now to speak to a human about how we can help you or someone you love.
CHANGE STARTS HERE...
Making the decision to seek help is the hardest part. We know it can be daunting, but if you are reading this, then you have already made the brave first step of acknowledging you may benefit from professional help.
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All you have to do to take the next step, is to pick up the phone and call us for a chat. There is no obligation to sign up for anything and we will not put any pressure on you to do so. We will just listen, share some experience and suggest some options.
CONTACT US
Call us for a confidential chat
and to arrange a free addiction assessment:
+61 1800 300 813
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