History of Cocaine Abuse
Cocaine is a widely used and extremely habit-forming stimulant drug – one that has been around for thousands of years. The substance was introduced to American society during the 1900s, when it was the main ingredient in numerous “elixirs” that were designed to increase alertness and improve overall health. It was quickly determined that the substance was too habit-forming to market to consumers, and its earlier forms – including the first formations of Coca-Cola – were taken off of the shelves. Currently, The US Drug Enforcement Administration currently classifies cocaine as a Schedule II chemical substance, meaning that it can be administered by a licensed medical professional for some uses, but that it is highly addictive and should never be taken outside of a medical facility.
Despite the fact that this substance can be used as a local anesthetic for minor surgeries, it is rarely used medically – and almost always used recreationally. Individuals who abuse this substance commonly ingest it nasally (by snorting it) when it is in a white, powdered form. However, cocaine can also be used intravenously. In its powdered form, cocaine is often diluted with a range of non-addictive substances including corn starch, talcum powder, and baking soda in order to increase its street value. If you’re addicted to cocaine, there is one bit of good news. We offer cocaine addiction resources and cocaine rehab near me placement for men and women that are truly ready to get clean and sober.
More on Cocaine Addiction
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there were roughly 1.5 million past- month cocaine users throughout the United States in the year 2009 alone. While rates of cocaine abuse have remained relatively stable, the drug continues to wreak havoc in the lives of millions of Americans on an annual basis. Cocaine addiction can be extremely devastating, and leads to a wide range of serious short and long-term consequences. Data collected from the 2011 Drug Abuse Warning Network report suggested that 505,224 out of the 1.3 million drug-related emergency room visits that year directly involved cocaine – this equates to a staggering 40 percent of all drug-related emergency room visits. If you or someone you love is struggling with cocaine abuse or addiction, we are available to help.
Cocaine Abuse and Addiction - Signs and Symptoms
Some of the more common symptoms associated with cocaine abuse and addiction include (but are not limited to):
- Chronic runny nose
- Regular nosebleeds
- Issues with the sense of smell
- Track marks or bruising on the arms (common with intravenous use)
- Mood swings - feelings of well-being that quickly transform into irritability
- Hiding cocaine use from friends and family
- Neglecting personal responsibilities
- A lack of attention paid to personal hygiene
- Continuing to use cocaine despite consequences
- Experiencing legal and financial issues
- Dilated pupils
- Hoarseness and difficulty swallowing
- The development of a physical tolerance
- Withdrawal symptoms with ceased use
If you or someone close to you has been snorting or injecting cocaine, reaching out for professional help is essential. Give us a call today and we will help place you in a reputable cocaine rehab center near me, or offer you the resources you need to begin your personal journey of recovery.
Symptoms Associated with Cocaine Withdrawal
Symptoms of cocaine withdrawal are not generally life-threatening, though they can result in complications when not overseen in a medically monitored detox facility. Some symptoms commonly associated with cocaine withdrawal include (but are not limited to):
- Excessive fatigue and tiredness
- Agitation and irritability
- Restlessness
- Insomnia and vivid, unpleasant nightmares
- Increased appetite
- Sluggishness
- General feelings of physical discomfort
Find Cocaine Rehab Centers Near Me
We offer around-the-clock care and support for men and women of all ages who have been struggling with cocaine abuse or addiction. Our resource site is dedicated to helping you find treatment for cocaine addiction, and our staff members are dedicated to providing you or your loved one with the resources and insight necessary to begin a lasting journey of recovery. If you would like to learn more about treatment options in your area, or if you would like to learn more about cocaine addiction in general, reach out to us today.
Cocaine Addiction Help and Recovery Resources
Whether you’re smoking cocaine, snorting cocaine, or even injecting cocaine, it does not have to destroy your life any longer. There is real, compassionate, and professional help available. Don’t be afraid, we are always just a quick phone call away.
