Crack cocaine is a highly addictive illicit substance, one that is known for quickly wreaking havoc in the lives of its users. Because this specific chemical substance is so exceedingly addictive, even using it one time can result in physical and psychological dependence. The psychological cravings that this illicit drug produces quickly become overwhelming, prompting the user to seek and use more and more of the substance. When it comes to the effects that crack cocaine has on the physical body, there is a long list of immediate effects as well as long-term effects that tend to go hand-in-hand with repeated use. 
First Time Use of Crack Cocaine
When crack cocaine is first used it inhibits the reabsorption of dopamine, a neurological chemical that essentially works to make us feel good. Because of this, the drug facilitates an immediate sense of euphoria that is typically accompanied by a dramatic lowering of inhibitions as well as feelings of invincibility or superiority. Crack cocaine addiction is common not only in urban areas but also in suburban populations. It can affect anyone and not one person is safe from the destruction that substance abuse brings. Once you’re addicted to crack cocaine, the effects it has on your body can truly be devastating for your long-term health and wellness. The immediate effects of crack cocaine are extremely short-lasting – they take hold quickly and wear off within minutes (typically between 10 and 20 minutes depending on the dose). Upon the first dose of crack cocaine and once the initial “high” wears off, the user will feel:
- An intense surge of euphoria and increased pleasure
- Lowered inhibitions and an increase in risk-taking behaviors
- Extreme anger and violent outbursts (more common once the initial high wears off)
- Feelings of anxiety and paranoia
- Depression and feelings of deep sadness
- Extremely elevated heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Additional physical reactions like dilated pupils, nausea and vomiting, and muscle spasms or body tremors
Long-Term Effects of Crack on the Body
Again, these are only the short-term effects of crack cocaine abuse. Once an individual begins to use this specific chemical substance repeatedly, he or she will undeniably begin experiencing a wide range of long-term health issues. some of the more common symptoms associated with long-term crack cocaine abuse include:
- Lung damage occurs when the chemical substance is smoked regularly
- Chronic breathing problems and other severe respiratory issues
- A racing heartbeat or a regular heartbeat, also known as tachycardia
- Chronically high blood pressure
- The onset of certain severe psychotic symptoms, which could include paranoid delusions and tactile and auditory hallucinations
- Some persistent physical issues, which could include headache and abdominal pain
- A rapidly developing physical tolerance, which quickly leads to substance dependency
- The onset of severe and heartland pleasant withdrawal symptoms that begin whenever use is stopped abruptly
- The development of certain mood disorders, like depression, can ultimately lead to suicidal ideation and suicide attempts
- Lasting damage to the heart, kidneys, and liver
- Weight loss and a dramatically decreased appetite can easily lead to malnutrition
- Many oral issues, including decaying teeth and infection
- insomnia and sleep deprivation, which can lead to fatigue and physical exhaustion
- When crack cocaine is smoked, it can lead to severe lung injury commonly referred to as “crack lung”
Crack Cocaine Treatment and Evoke Wellness at Miramar
Evoke Wellness Miramar offers men and women who have been struggling with crack cocaine abuse (or any other substance abuse disorder) the opportunity to heal thoroughly and permanently. Our carefully developed program of addiction recovery tackles all of the issues that could potentially lead to relapse down the road. When it comes to crack cocaine, the intense psychological cravings that tend to go hand in hand with early sobriety can be extremely overwhelming if not adequately treated. Unfortunately, these very cravings often prevent men and women from seeking the professional treatment they so desperately need. If you are someone you love who has been suffering at the hands of a substance abuse disorder of any severity, reach out to us today for more information on our comprehensive rehab programs in South Florida.
