Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that enhances the brain’s ability to perceive pleasure. Once widely used by celebrities to indicate their status, we now better understand the genuine dangers of prolonged cocaine usage. If you or a loved one suffers from a cocaine use problem, help is available today. Contact Zelus Recovery’s drug detox center by calling 208.518.0797 or completing our online form to begin the next steps in conquering this dependency for good.
What Are The Signs Of An Addiction to Cocaine?
Cocaine co-opts the central nervous system’s regulatory mechanisms, creating a high-energy state. It accomplishes this by stockpiling dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of confidence and pleasure. However, this is not free energy or happiness. Cocaine abuse comes at a significant cost to the body, and within a few hours, it is always followed by a physical crash. Over time, cocaine use can quickly deplete the brain’s ability to perceive actual pleasure, forming an addiction.
Some of the signs and symptoms of a cocaine use problem include:
- Erratic behavior patterns
- Accelerated or incoherent speech
- Uncharacteristically violent behavior
- Engaging in risky behaviors
- Changed physical appearance, with less attention given to personal hygiene
- Weight loss
- Insomnia
- Increased risk of cardiac arrest, stroke, or seizure
When a number of these symptoms appear in correlation with a friend or family member’s drug use, it may be time for an intervention. This is especially true for young adults, as cocaine may compromise their brain development, potentially causing significant cognitive damage. The earlier substance use issues are caught and treated, the more likely catastrophic health conditions and future patterns of substance abuse can be avoided.
What Are Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms?
Individuals who have developed a dependency on cocaine may present the following withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop using. Some of the most common cocaine withdrawal symptoms include:
- Overwhelming cravings
- Extreme fatigue
- Slowed thinking
- Sleep disturbances, including nightmares or night terrors
- Changes in appetite
- Mood swings
- Absence of libido
- Depression or anxiety
The intensity of these cocaine withdrawal symptoms is contingent on the length and frequency of the patient’s cocaine usage, whether or not multiple drugs or alcohol are also being abused, the route of administration, as well as the presence of any co-occurring disorders.
How Can Symptoms of Cocaine Withdrawal Be Made More Tolerable?
Recovery from cocaine dependency requires a comprehensive approach, addressing all of the patient’s physical, psychological, and emotional needs. The first stage will generally be a medically supervised detox, during which many of the withdrawal symptoms will likely emerge. These can be made easier through carefully administered pharmaceutical supports and attention to overall rest and recovery.
After the detox stage is completed, the real work begins, which addresses the underlying reasons that led to cocaine abuse in the first place. This is the only way to create a foundation for lifelong recovery. Patients are screened for co-occurring psychological conditions, and a recommended plan of action is put into place. This may involve cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emotive behavioral therapy, pain management, acquiring alternate coping mechanisms and healthier habits, and other supports. At all stages, family members are encouraged to become active participants in the recovery effort.
Overcome Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms at Zelus Recovery
The earlier substance abuse problems are addressed, the higher the chance of a successful detox and permanent recovery. However, it is never too late to obtain help. Contact one of our Zelus Recovery team members today by calling 208.518.0797 or completing our online form to learn how we can create a customized plan to get you or your loved one on the road to a healthier, happier life.
