Crack Cocaine Addiction Rehabilitation

Signs & Symptoms of Crack Cocaine Addiction

The common signs and symptoms of crack cocaine addiction can sometimes go unnoticed; however, there are signs to be aware of for yourself or a loved one that can impact physical and mental wellbeing and behaviour.

Physical & Psychological Effects

Physical effects of crack cocaine can often manifest after the first use. They can include:

• Dilated pupils
• Weight loss
• Elevated heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• A rush of energy
• Fever
• Restlessness
• Insomnia

Behavioural Signs & Symptoms

Sometimes, individuals will begin to change their behaviours due to the addictive substance:

• Denial of addiction consistently
• A loss of control or inability to quit
• Withdrawing from social events and loved ones into isolation
• Obsessive thoughts and a fixation on obtaining the substance

Individuals will find that they struggle more with some side effects as opposed to others, each with its own severity. It is important to recognise these changes in yourself or those around you in order to seek the right support early on. For advice and support, don’t hesitate to reach out to New Leaf Recovery.

Risks Associated With Crack Cocaine Addiction

As with the signs of crack cocaine addiction, the associate risks can vary from person to person, but are often physical, psychological and behavioural risks that change with more frequent use.

Prolonged use of crack cocaine can result in:

• Tremors
• Decreased eating and therefore weight loss
• Sexual dysfunction
• Respiratory problems
• Itching or a ‘skin crawling’ sensation
• Risks of heart attack or stroke due to constricted blood vessels

When crack cocaine is snorted, this can lead to damage to the sinuses and mucous membranes, resulting in nosebleeds and a deviated septum. It can also severely impair the central nervous system, cognitive function and the brain.

Some of the psychological risks of frequent use can include panic attacks, severe mood swings, paranoia, hallucinations and erratic behaviour. Some individuals may also see personality changes such as schizophrenia. Many of these will be far more noticeable in comparison to other risks or symptoms.

If you have concerns for a loved one, or changes in your own behaviour due to crack cocaine addiction, speak with our team at New Leaf Recovery on 0300 999 0330.

Crack Cocaine Withdrawals Symptoms

Withdrawing from crack cocaine use can be dangerous if done without the right support. The withdrawal symptoms experienced can be intense and challenging if faced alone. Although not typically life threatening, it can be distressing trying to navigate the effects all at once; this is why at New Leaf Recovery, we provide detoxification and withdrawal support for crack cocaine addiction.

As with the side effects of taking the drug, the withdrawal symptoms can be broken into physical and psychological symptoms:

Physical symptoms can include:

• Increased appetite
• Extreme tiredness
• Disturbed sleep

Some of the psychological impacts can include:

• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Intense cravings

With our medically supervised detoxification programme, our team are on hand 24 hours a day to support you through withdrawal in a safe and supportive environment. Don’t try and do it alone; reach out to our team today for the right withdrawal support.

How Crack Cocaine Addiction Can Happen

Crack cocaine is one of the most addictive forms of this substance due to the ways in which is effects the brain. Particularly when smoked, the substance enters the bloodstream almost instantly, reaching the brain quickly. The intense surge in dopamine creates a feeling of pleasure, reward and motivation as well as many stating they feel ‘euphoric’.

Due to the short lived nature of a high from crack cocaine, individuals are often tempted to use more frequently in order to maintain the positive feelings they get. Occasional use can quickly develop into a means of coping with emotional distress or difficult circumstances. As the brain adapts with prolonged use, it can stop producing its natural pleasure chemicals, instead relying on the use of crack cocaine to produce this.

With a chemical imbalance developing, individuals may begin to find it harder to function without the drug as cravings become stronger and a tolerance builds. This cycle of use and craving is what can make it increasingly difficult to stop using the substance without the correct support and treatment. At New Leaf Recovery, we provide a safe detoxification process that helps clients to withdraw from use in a stable environment with the right treatment and support around them at all times. Seeking this support early can prevent the risks becoming more severe in the long-term. Reach out to use early to ensure your recovery journey is started with full support today.

Help & Treatment for Crack Cocaine Addiction & Rehabilitation

Any forms of addiction recovery can be a challenge. At New Leaf Recovery, we work with clients to find the right approach to their rehabilitation, starting with detox and followed by a proven range of rehabilitative therapies that are designed to build long term sobriety.

• Detoxification: This is a medically supported process that helps clients to work through withdrawal safely. Detox removes toxins from the body, working to begin the restoration of natural processes whilst clients begin to focus on rehabilitation.
• Rehabilitation: This is the next step in addiction recovery. Clients will find support in understanding the root cause of their addiction, find new coping strategies and begin to understand how they can better regulate their emotions in difficult situations.
• Aftercare: At New Leaf Recovery, we also provide a Rehab Aftercare Programme for those who have stepped back into daily life. This is a means of providing ongoing support in rehabilitation with support groups and continued therapy. These sessions can help maintain sobriety and prevent relapse outside of a rehabilitation centre setting.

We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to find sobriety. Recovery is possible with the right help and support. Reach out to our team at New Leaf Recovery today and let us help you to get your journey started.