Effects of Cocaine Addiction and How Drug Addiction Treatment Can Help

Cocaine is a drug that we all know of. Not only is it publicized by it's use by celebrities, but everyday people are also users. In fact, recent studies have shown that around 14% of all adults in the U.S. have tried cocaine at least once. The use of cocaine is a serious problem and can lead to a lifetime addiction. If you are trying to learn more about the addiction because someone you know is addicted, or even if you are addicted yourself - here are some things that you should know. Including why drug addiction treatment might be the best choice.

The draw to cocaine comes from the immense high that users feel. When the drug is used, certain brain chemicals - called neurotransmitters - are blocked from reabsorbing into the brain. This causes chemicals to build up and cause the sensation of feeling 'high'. The high can be described as a huge burst of energy and focused attention. Users have reported feeling very supreme and important while on the drug - untouchable. But, the use of the drug has heavy, heavy risks. Even people who only intend to use the drug once run the risk of developing a serious addiction to it.

But, the positives are outweighed by the negative effects of the drug. Irritability, restlessness and major anxiety result from its use. There are also damaging physical effects of the drug. The heart rate can increase to dangerous levels, making the heart over-work and increasing the chance of heart attack. Snorting the drug can cause permanent damage to the nasal passages and users can lose their sense of smell. While smoking the drug irritates and damages the lung, which can lead to major respiratory infections.

After prolonged use, addicts can become manically depressed and extremely anxious. They can even lose their ability to feel pleasure, these symptoms can eventually lead to suicidal thoughts. Drug addiction treatment is the best choice for someone who is experiencing these symptoms. If the addict is not treated and left to be the victim of their addiction, their addiction can easily spiral out of control until they commit suicide or die from the harmful effects of the drug.

Studies have shown the treatment for addiction is as effective as treatment for other chronic illnesses such as diabetes or asthma. The addict will most likely experience withdrawal symptoms which can include tremors, chills, flu-like symptoms and other discomforts. But the effects of cocaine withdrawal will usually subside within two weeks. Because of this, the best choice for a treatment center would most likely be a residential center, where addicts will actually live in treatment for around two weeks to one month.

Treatment is important for any addict. It is also important that the victim of addiction have a long term plan that can continue to guide them as they battle relapse throughout the next several years. If you are currently suffering from cocaine addiction or you know someone who is, it is extremely important that you realize the danger of the drug and urge the addict to seek treatment right away.

Mountainside Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center is a comprehensive and innovative provider of drug addiction treatment for teens as well as adults. Providing drug rehab treatment since the 1990's, they are well-equipped, caring and compassionate in dealing with sensitive addiction issues.

Visit http://www.mountainside.com for more information for yourself or your loved one.