Long term effects of cocaine use
Long term effects of cocaine use and abuse are rarely discussed in the media, and when they are, they tend to fall into the negative. But the real danger to your health from this class of drugs is not its effects on the body, but the harm that it does to the brain.
There are many ways that long term effects of cocaine use and abuse can take place in the brain. The substance’s effects on the central nervous system make up the bulk of what is known as “cocaine dependence”.
Neuropathies. Long term use of cocaine can cause cell degeneration in the brain, which will have profound effects on the function of the central nervous system. In turn, this can lead to a number of symptoms such as memory loss, decreased levels of concentration, anxiety, paranoia, depression, decreased or increased aggression, headaches, tremors, convulsions, visual impairment, loss of speech, tremors, seizures, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, personality changes, sleep disorders, anxiety attacks, tremors, hallucinations, delusions, liver damage, kidney damage, and just about any other disorder that has ever been documented.
Dopamine receptors. The release of dopamine from the synaptic cleft leads to feelings of pleasure and euphoria. When this neurotransmitter is depleted, feelings of pleasure and euphoria are permanently compromised.
Dopamine depletion. The secretion of dopamine from the synaptic cleft is one of the most common characteristics of addictive behaviors such as alcoholism, drug and alcohol abuse, compulsive sexual behavior, and pathological gambling. This is one of the reasons why these behaviors tend to be such strong addictions.
Catecholamines. These hormones also play a large role in normal functions of the brain, but too much stimulation or not enough can cause severe damage to the brain. With prolonged use, it can also lead to strokes, seizures, coma, heart attacks, and heart failure.
Damage to nerve cells. Too much dopamine in the brain may lead to problems with coordination, movement, and coordination. It may also cause the death of nerve cells.
Central nervous system diseases. Cocaine use has been linked to a variety of diseases including the development of brain tumors, glaucoma, and hepatitis. It is even suspected of causing a number of disorders that are inherited, including multiple sclerosis and Huntington’s disease.
Fatal overdoses. Many young people who consume excessive amounts of cocaine die from asphyxiation, heart attacks, and strokes. Chronic abusers may develop a series of heart disease-related illnesses such as coronary artery disease, aortic aneurysm, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure.
Persistent illnesses. Long term users can suffer from cirrhosis of the liver, infections, and malnutrition. Withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, agitation, hallucinations, and anxiety are common, and long term use may cause physical deformities and mental deterioration.
Post-traumatic stress disorder. Individuals who have experienced the trauma of first hand the suffering and mental anguish of substance abuse may have an increased risk of developing this affliction.
Long term effects of cocaine use and abuse are not limited to the individual user. They also have a direct effect on the life of an entire society. It is imperative that we continue to educate our youth on the dangers of cocaine use.