We all know that when someone is suffering from addiction, the only safe way to get them clean and sober is by sending them to treatment. However, the longer an addiction lasts, the worse it can be. That’s why recognizing the signs that someone is using and abusing drugs is so critically important. The important thing to remember is that every drug is different, and each individual’s case of addiction is different. While not everyone will have the same symptoms, there are a few common signs of drug abuse to look out for when trying to determine if your loved one needs help.
At The Last House, we recognize that addiction is a lifelong struggle and that everyone needs help. We aim to provide help and resources to those going through addiction and their families so that they can get on the path of sobriety. In this post, we are going to look at the drug cocaine and what are some cocaine use symptoms and signs of cocaine addiction, as well as how to find outpatient treatment for cocaine addiction.
What is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a stimulant drug that is derived from the leaves of the coca plant. It has been around for centuries and was used by native peoples in different parts of the world for its medicinal properties.
It was originally used to fight fatigue and other conditions due to its potential as a stimulant. As late as the early 20th century, it was also used regularly as an anesthetic before eventually becoming the more modern form of cocaine that became an illicit
Modern cocaine is either a sticky yellow or white powder and is typically ingested by snorting, though it can be injected or smoked as crack cocaine.
In terms of what it can do, it has been known to suppress appetite, reduce fatigue, promote higher energy levels, and enhance mood, among other effects. It also causes numbing of areas that it comes into contact with, making it useful as an anesthetic, which in rare cases is still used today in medical procedures.
What Are the Symptoms of Cocaine Use?
The signs of cocaine use are fairly easy to detect once you know what to look for. There are signs of use that are physical, emotional, and behavioral to look out for.
For instance, if someone has been using cocaine habitually, you may notice a white residue around their nose or mouth. You may also notice constant sniffling or a runny nose. There may even be lesions in the person’s nose or frequent nosebleeds.
They may seem overly excited and energetic, including fast-talking and inability to sit still. They may also become irritable once the “high” wears off.
Other signs include becoming distant from family and friends, losing interest in things you used to enjoy, and neglecting responsibilities such as work, school, or hygiene. Once a person starts using heavily, they often become secretive, trying to hide their drug use. This also usually includes drug-seeking behavior.
How Addictive is Cocaine?
Cocaine is considered a highly addictive drug. This is linked to two primary factors.
The first reason for the drug’s addictive potential is because it alters the body’s chemistry to make it dependent on the drug to function normally. Over time this dependence turns to full-blown addiction.
Secondly, many people enjoy the drug’s effects, making it increasingly popular for recreational use, leading to a higher potential for it to become habit-forming.
Is There Outpatient Treatment For Cocaine Addiction?
There are options when it comes to treatment for cocaine addiction. Aside from inpatient treatment, there are also two forms of outpatient treatment, standard outpatient treatment, and intensive outpatient treatment. These are excellent options for those that need the help and support that comes along with treatment, but need the freedom to return home after their treatment sessions instead of staying in a facility.
Once treatment ends, The Last House offers men’s sober living in Orange County for those that need a place to go to continue their recovery and rebuild their life after addiction has taken its toll. We offer different programs depending on the needs of residents, including our LA sober living program, and we also offer family support to help with the transition back to a normal life.
Contact the Last House today to learn more about our sober living locations in Southern California.