Dangers of Snorting, Smoking, and Injecting Cocaine

Cocaine can affect the dopamine system in the brain, which can trigger a feeling of happiness, the cost of this short-lived satisfaction comes with serious health problems, even death. Though it’s commonly classified as an illicit drug, however, the prevalence of it has been increasing in consumption over all methods such as smoking, snorting (as crack) and injecting. The risks of using cocaine go much further than the short-lived “high” it offers. 

If you’re looking to know the risks of using cocaine for yourself or a family member, this article will provide you with the risks of taking cocaine through various methods and the impact it has on the physical, mental, and even your overall health.

What Is Cocaine and How Is It Used?

Cocaine is a central nervous system stimulant that is derived from plants. Several types of cocaine include powdered cocaine (hydrochloride salt), crack cocaine (a crystallized version of cocaine), and freebase cocaine. The method by which the substance is consumed can affect its strength, duration of absorption, and its lasting effects.

• Snorting: Cocaine is swallowed through the nose, where it is absorbed through the nasal tissues.
• Smoking: crack cocaine gets smoked and heated, which allows the drug to enter the brain quickly.
• Injecting: Cocaine in liquid form is directly injected into the bloodstream, delivering the user with a powerful and instant boost.

Each method is a risk in its own way with varying severity; however, all have the risk of abuse, physical injury and even long-term repercussions.

Cocaine’s Effects on the Brain

Cocaine works on the brain by blocking the dopamine neurotransmitter, which play role in the reward and pleasure pathways. If dopamine increases in the brain, this causes feelings of euphoria, increased energy, and increased alertness. This artificial high could lead to a vicious habit of addiction because the brain is constantly seeking stimulation. 

The rate at which cocaine is absorbed into the brain is dependent upon the mode of consumption. Smoking cocaine or injecting cocaine results in a quicker effect onset, which increases the possibility of addiction. The process of snorting cocaine, although slow, may cause the same effects on the brain.

1. Dangers of Snorting Cocaine

It is less dangerous than injecting or smoking however, it can pose serious risks for both long-term and short-term health.

Short-Term Risks

• Nasal Damage: The dust can irritate the nasal passages, leading to swelling, pain, and frequent nosebleeds. 
• Sinus issues: Long-term coca use can trigger sinusitis, which is a consequence of inflammation and harm to the mucous membranes of the nasal cavities.
• Greater Risk of Infection: If people are sharing pipes, straws, or any other instrument used to snort, it increases the possibility of spreading diseases, including hepatitis C, HIV, and bacteria-related infections.

Long-Term Risks

• Snorting could cause serious damage to the nasal structure and the nasal cavity, resulting in breathing problems.
• The smell of a person who has smoked cocaine may damage the sensory nerves of the olfactory system, resulting in the loss of smell or impairment of taste.
• Those who suffer from it can suffer from long-lasting sinus problems that include chronic congestion as well as inflammation.

2. Dangers of Smoking Cocaine (Crack)

The use of crack cocaine as a smoke is one of the most hazardous techniques of use since it has a powerful and instant effect on the brain. Crack cocaine is made by cooking cocaine powder with baking soda, creating an unbreakable crystal which can be inhaled.

Health Risks

• Lung damage: Smoking cracks may cause chronic respiratory problems, which can include wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
• Heart Issues: Crack cocaine dramatically increases the heart rate and blood pressure, which increases the risk of stroke and heart attack.
• Brain damage: Smoking crack can lead to rapid dopamine release that could trigger a variety of mental symptoms like anxiety, paranoia, and aggressiveness. The long-term usage of crack increases the likelihood of developing psychosis as well as memory issues.
• Abuse: Smoking crack can lead to a powerful high, which is followed by a swift slump, which triggers the desire to try the substance again.

3. Dangers of Injecting Cocaine

Cocaine injection is by far the most hazardous method for use as it is injected directly into the bloodstream, causing an immediate, intense buzz. The increased doses of cocaine may be fatal and can expose users to numerous life-threatening risks.

Health Risks

• The Collapsed Lungs injectables can create lung problems, which can include collapsed lungs as a result of their effects on the lungs when it is administered intravenously.
• Overdose: The cocaine overdose could trigger seizures, cardiac arrest, or even death due to the massive impact it has on the brain and heart.
• Infections: People who inject cocaine have a high chance of contracting HIV, hepatitis and bacterial infections, because of injections shared by needles.
• Vein damage: Injections repeatedly result in scarring and a shrinking of veins, which makes it difficult for patients to locate a good location for injection.
• Heart Infections: Cocaine injection increases the chance of contracting endocarditis, which destroys the lining of the heart, caused by infiltrating bloodstream bacteria.

Comprehensive Treatment at FL Rehab: Dual Diagnosis and More

Here at FL Rehab, we recognize that cocaine addiction can be associated with other mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Our dual diagnosis approach for cocaine addiction covers both substance use and mental health concerns to provide a holistic recovery.

Our team of experts can provide:

• Counseling and individual therapy
• Medical detoxification to ensure a safe withdrawal
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Networks of support and group therapy
• Planned aftercare for preventing the possibility of relapse

Conclusion

No matter the method by which it’s consumed, it can pose serious health hazards. When it’s consumed in the form of a cigarette, snort, or inhaled, the risk of addiction, heart injury, brain damage, and even death is extremely present. It is essential to seek assistance when your loved one or you suffers from addiction.

The dangers associated with cocaine don’t just stop at the instant high; long-term mental, physical and social effects can alter lives.

If you’re ready to get help, call our Florida rehab center for professional guidance and help.