Crazy Effects of Cocaine Abuse

Cocaine is an illegal stimulant drug, and most people are aware that it can lead to addiction. Before addiction begins, however, cocaine can lead to some crazy effects. Take a closer look at some of the worst and perhaps most surprising effects of cocaine abuse.

Erratic or Violent Behavior

Many cocaine users are surprised to learn that the drug’s immediate side effects are far more than just physical. Cocaine abuse can change the way your brain functions. That means your behavior and personality are altered.

One of the effects of cocaine abuse is erratic behavior. A person who is ordinarily shy might become outgoing, but he or she might also take significant risks. Cocaine can also make you more prone to aggression. Some cocaine users are violent when under the influence of the drug, even if they are never violent when sober.

Hallucinations

Another way that cocaine use or abuse can impact your brain chemistry is by causing hallucinations. When you’re under the influence of cocaine, you might see or hear things that aren’t there. This can be incredibly scary.

If you have a hallucination, you might act in crazy ways. Although what you’re seeing or hearing isn’t real, it will feel real. You might run away from someone screaming, or you might try to fight back against something that isn’t there. Erratic and crazy behavior is possible as a direct result of cocaine-induced hallucinations.

Convulsions and Seizures

Another one of the worst side effects of cocaine abuse is the risk of convulsions. While some users experience slight tremors, others experience convulsions or seizures. For even a mild seizure, there are risks of bodily injury and disorientation.

For severe seizures, there can be a lack of oxygen to the brain. This lack of oxygen leads to permanent brain damage in rare cases. In a few instances, a drug-induced seizure can lead to sudden death. This can happen even for the very first time that a person uses a drug like cocaine.

Increases in Heart Rate and Body Temperature

Cocaine’s stimulating effects can cause all kinds of bodily processes to kick into overdrive. Using cocaine will increase your heart rate and cause your blood pressure to soar. It can also raise your body temperature, sometimes to unhealthy levels. That’s why some cocaine users look visibly overheated, and many may be sweating or have flushed red faces.

Getting Rid of the Effects of Cocaine Abuse

Ending cocaine abuse or addiction means seeking professional help and rehab services. After going through cocaine withdrawal symptoms, clients can start to fight back against addiction and its underlying causes. At Beaches Recovery, some of the proven techniques and therapies include the following:

• EMDR therapy
• Group therapy
• Behavioral therapy
• Fitness therapy
• Family therapy

The effects of cocaine abuse can be severe, and addiction is always a risk. If you’re struggling with cocaine abuse or dependence, then Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida, can help. Call 866.605.0532 to learn more about the right rehab program that can help you find lifelong sobriety.