Recognizing a drug problem in a loved one can be challenging. Even if you see them every day, it’s hard to know what’s really happening, especially when it comes to routine use. Knowing the warning signs of a cocaine problem can help you to know when to take action. If you already see these, seek out the available cocaine addiction treatment programs that may help your loved one get the help they need fast.
Common Warning Signs of a Cocaine Problem
Cocaine is a highly addictive drug. A person may develop an addiction within a short period of time. One of the most common concerns with cocaine is that the effect wears off quickly. As a result, a person may seek repeated uses in a short period, increasing the risk for addiction, dependence, and overdose. Some of the most common signs of a cocaine addiction include:
- Periods of blackouts or times a person cannot remember
- Intense highs that follow with intense lows or mood swings
- Feeling ill with headaches, sleeplessness, upset stomach, or pain
- Loss of interest in things that the individual used to enjoy
- Lack of hygiene
- Dilated pupils
- Excitability
- Drastic weight loss
- A runny nose
A person using cocaine may feel compelled to continue using. Expect to see drug-seeking behavior, especially over a period of time. A person may prioritize finding cocaine because of the dependence that’s building.
Signs You Need Cocaine Addiction Treatment
It can be challenging for those who are using cocaine themselves to know when you’ve developed an addiction. Cocaine use isn’t safe at any level. An overdose can occur at any time, even when a person is using for the first time. Yet, you may notice some changes in yourself. Some common signs you need cocaine addiction treatment may include:
- Thinking about using cocaine frequently, almost all of the time
- Needing to use cocaine in larger amounts to get any relief from cravings
- Feeling as though cocaine is something you need to have even if you want to stop using
- Trying to stop and failing to do so
- Experiencing overdoses
- Prioritizing cocaine use over relationships, work, and school
If you find yourself in these situations, it’s time to think about treatment.
What Does Cocaine Addiction Look Like?
A person with a cocaine addiction may still be going to work or school. They may be able to engage with others around them. Some people may be able to hide their use for a short amount of time. They may seem “normal” when it comes to talking to them and interacting with them on a constant basis. Over time, health deteriorates, and it becomes harder to ignore the cravings for cocaine. In some situations, it may even seem impossible to stop using.
This is when it may be time to seek out cocaine addiction treatment. That may include cocaine detox as a first step or the use of medications that can ease symptoms and cravings. This may enable a person to finally break through the dependence they feel. A person with dependence is unable to stop using on their own even if they want to do so because of the changes in their mental health and physical dependence.
Don’t Wait to Get Help for Addiction
When you see the signs of a cocaine addiction, take steps immediately to get help. Call a treatment center to inquire about available treatment programs. Work hard to focus on your health and well-being through therapy. A treatment program can be quite effective at helping a person to see significant improvement. It may even save their life, especially over the long term.