It’s important to understand crack side effects so that you can make informed decisions when you or your loved ones are faced with drug addiction. Crack is a highly addictive and dangerous drug that can have serious side effects on both the physical and mental health of an individual. If you or a loved one are struggling with crack cocaine abuse, contact Evoke Wellness at Miramar’s crack cocaine addiction treatment at 866.931.9312 today. We are here to help guide our patients to success and healing with compassion and respect.
What Is Crack?
Crack, also known as crack cocaine, is a potent and highly addictive illegal substance derived from powdered cocaine. It gets its name from the cracking sound it makes when heated and smoked. Crack cocaine is notorious for its immediate, intense effects that rapidly wear off, leading users to binge on the drug in order to maintain their high.
In the 19th century, cocaine was originally used for medicinal purposes. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that recreational use of cocaine became popular. Crack cocaine emerged in the 1980s and quickly gained popularity due to its low cost and powerful effects. The crack epidemic of the 1980s and 1990s led to widespread addiction and devastation in communities across the United States.
Crack Side Effects
The use of crack cocaine has numerous side effects that can be detrimental to both physical and mental health. Physically, crack side effects can include:
- Increased heart rate
- Blood pressure
- Body temperature
Users may also experience chest pain, respiratory problems, and seizures. Long-term use can cause cardiovascular damage and increase the risk of stroke and heart attack.
Mental side effects of crack use include:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Aggressive behavior
Over time, crack cocaine abuse can lead to severe mental health issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, and psychosis.
Signs of Cocaine Abuse
Recognizing the signs of crack cocaine abuse is crucial for seeking help. These signs can include behavioral changes such as:
- Increased secrecy
- Social withdrawal
- Prioritizing drug use over responsibilities
Physical symptoms may encompass dilated pupils, rapid weight loss, and burns or blisters on the lips or fingers from smoking crack. Psychological signs can include restlessness, irritability, and paranoia.
The Dangerously Addictive Nature of Crack
Crack cocaine is highly addictive due to its rapid onset of effects and short-lived high. The immediate pleasure and euphoria experienced by users can quickly lead to dependence and addiction. Over time, individuals may develop a tolerance, requiring larger amounts of the drug to achieve the desired effects.
Withdrawal from crack cocaine can also be intense, making it difficult for individuals to quit using the drug. Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Extreme cravings
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Irritability
If left untreated, crack addiction can have devastating consequences on an individual’s physical and mental health, as well as their relationships and overall quality of life.
Seeking Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Recovery from crack cocaine addiction is possible with the right support and treatment. At Evoke Wellness at Miramar, we offer comprehensive treatment programs that address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Our team of medical professionals and therapists provides personalized care to help individuals overcome their addictions and regain control of their lives.
We utilize a variety of therapies tailored to the individual’s needs, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Our holistic approach also incorporates acupuncture therapy, yoga therapy, and nutrition education to support physical health and wellness.
Particularly, we emphasize dual diagnosis treatment, recognizing that many individuals struggling with substance abuse also have co-occurring mental health conditions. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping patients develop the skills needed for a lifetime of recovery.
Call Evoke Wellness Today to Heal from Crack Abuse
If you or a loved one is struggling with crack cocaine abuse, do not hesitate to reach out to Evoke Wellness at Miramar. Call 866.931.9312 or contact us online today. We understand the challenges of overcoming substance misuse and are here to provide personalized, professional support every step of the way.
