Cocaine is a dangerous drug and one that can lead to the development of an addiction. While cocaine delivers a strong high, users experience a significant crash when it wears off. In order for cocaine users to seek treatment, they first need to recognize their addiction. Below are four of the most common signs of cocaine addiction.
1. Nasal Problems
The most common way to abuse cocaine is by sniffing or snorting it. Doing so can severely damage the nasal cavity. As a result, nasal problems are a telltale side effect of cocaine that can potentially be a clear indication of a prolonged addiction to cocaine.
Some of the most common nasal problems as a result of chronic and excessive cocaine consumption include:
- Constantly running nose and lots of sniffling
- Frequent or unexpected nosebleeds
- A diminished or entirely lost sense of smell
- Frequent colds, or excusing nasal problems as frequent colds
2. Boosts of Confidence Might Indicate a Cocaine Addiction
Self-confidence is a good thing, but sudden bursts of it along with other symptoms might indicate cocaine use. Cocaine acts as a stimulant, and those who take it might suddenly feel stronger, more confident, and more attractive. If someone is typically very shy, but leaves for a few minutes and comes back bursting with confidence, then it might be a sign of an addiction.
Since cocaine rarely delivers a high lasting longer than an hour, someone with a cocaine addiction might disappear and then reappear several times over the course of the night. As soon as his or her mood dips, he or she might need another dose of cocaine in order to keep up this newfound vibrant, outgoing persona.
3. Changes to Mood and Sleep Patterns
By thinking of cocaine as a stimulant, you can start to imagine what it’s like for someone dependent on it to function without access to it. He or she will eventually encounter a crash and begin to suffer cocaine withdrawal symptoms that can include depression, anxiety, and agitation.
Cocaine can also impact mood and energy levels, and this can result in prolonged periods of sleep. Someone who is addicted to cocaine might stay up late and appear to have unlimited energy, but then they may turn around and sleep for 14 hours at a time and have trouble waking up the next day.
4. Signs of Cocaine Addiction Can Include the Appearance of Drug Paraphernalia
Many signs of an addiction to cocaine are physical, psychological, or behavioral in nature. Sometimes, however, the clearest signs are the appearance of drug-related paraphernalia.
Visible white powder, particularly on flat surfaces like tables or magazines, can be a warning sign. Small plastic baggies and tightly rolled bills or paper can also be an indicator of cocaine use.
Noticing some of these signs of cocaine addiction means drug detox and addiction treatment will be necessary. At Pinnacle Peak Recovery in Scottsdale, Arizona, patients can overcome an addiction to cocaine and live a sober, healthy life. Live the life you deserve by calling 866-377-4761 today.
