Crack cocaine is an even more addictive and powerful stimulant than cocaine, having devastating effects on those who use it. Understanding the differences between crack cocaine and cocaine, along with the side effects and withdrawal symptoms, can help you recognize whether someone you know may need help.
If you notice crack cocaine side effects in a loved one, encourage them to reach out for cocaine addiction treatment at Promises My 5 Palms. We offer residential and outpatient treatment so that our clients can feel confident in their level of care and that their recovery needs will be met.
What Is Crack Cocaine?
Crack cocaine is a potent stimulant drug derived from the coca plant. Unlike cocaine, which is available as a white powder, crack cocaine is processed into small rocks that people smoke, hence the nickname “rock.”
Another difference between cocaine and crack cocaine is how quickly the high comes and goes. Crack cocaine produces a rapid and intense high that dissipates shortly afterward. This is what prompts people to want to use the drug again and again, leading to a dangerous cycle of addiction.
Common Crack Cocaine Side Effects
The intense high of crack cocaine imparts a surge of euphoria, energy, confidence, and alertness, but it also comes with a long list of complications. Some common crack side effects include:
- Dilated pupils
- Elevated heart rate, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke
- Elevated blood pressure
- Extreme anxiety
- Agitation, sometimes leading to violent behavior
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Respiratory problems
- Neurological damage
Crack cocaine is highly addictive, and if you try to quit once dependent on the drug, you can experience withdrawal symptoms like:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Strong cravings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Trouble sleeping
- Restlessness
- Changes in appetite
These symptoms can be especially severe in those who have used crack for a long time or take high doses of the drug. Getting professional help will give you the best chance of managing withdrawal discomfort and quitting crack cocaine for good.
Big Picture Side Effects of Crack
The impact of substance use always extends far beyond the individual experiencing the addiction. Relationships with friends, family, and co-workers are also deeply affected. Drug addiction takes a major emotional toll on those closest to us and often a financial one as well.
The Impact of Crack Cocaine on Personal Relationships
Addiction becomes the number one priority for people with a dependence on crack cocaine. They often place it above their commitments to the important people in their lives, which leaves those people feeling abandoned, frustrated, and helpless. Over time, the damage caused to relationships can become permanent if people continue to choose the substance over the people in their lives. Children, in particular, can be severely traumatized by a parent’s drug use.
The Impact of Crack Cocaine on Finances
The financial impact of crack cocaine is also severe. Unpaid bills and large amounts of debt can often lead to financial hardship. Additionally, people who experience addiction can often miss work and face disciplinary actions at work due to absenteeism or tardiness. This can lead to job loss, and for families dependent on a parent with an addiction, it can be especially damaging.
Overcoming Addiction to Crack Cocaine
Overcoming crack addiction can be difficult, but it is possible with the appropriate support and resources. The following components work together to help you break free from dependence on crack cocaine:
Enroll in a Cocaine Addiction Treatment Program
Enrolling in drug addiction treatment offers many advantages, including access to a team of professionals who can design a personalized treatment plan for you.
Attend Addiction Therapy Sessions
Addiction therapy is available in both individual and group settings, both of which provide different benefits. Sessions offer a safe space to address underlying contributors to substance misuse and will teach you healthy coping mechanisms you can rely on throughout your recovery journey.
Join a Support Group
You can find additional emotional support through online or in-person support groups like Narcotics Anonymous. These groups offer a sense of community while also providing plenty of opportunities for accountability to keep you on track.
Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes
Long-term recovery relies on more than therapy and support groups. While these are core components of a sober lifestyle, you also need to make some changes to your everyday habits. Pay extra attention to getting enough sleep and exercise to support your body as it heals from addiction. It is also critical to provide your body with the nutrients it needs through a balanced diet and proper hydration.
Practice Stress Reduction Techniques
Stress is one of the most common triggers for substance misuse, so it is important to get it under control. Try different stress reduction techniques to see which ones work best for you. Some great places to start are breathing exercises, guided meditation, massage, and yoga.
Schedule an Appointment at 5 Palms for Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Although recovery from crack cocaine can be challenging, the journey is much easier when you enroll in evidence-based addiction treatment. At 5 Palms, our caring team of professionals is ready to guide you through the withdrawal process as safely and comfortably as possible. To learn more about overcoming cocaine addiction at our Florida treatment center, call us now at 1.844.675.1022 or submit this online form to schedule an intake assessment.
