Cocaine Addiction Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of cocaine addiction are tricky to spot, especially if you’re not sure what they are. However, knowing what to look out for can help get crucial support that bit faster. 

While drug abuse is personal to each individual, and some may experience symptoms that others don’t, there are common signs and symptoms of cocaine addiction to be aware of. 

To help you spot an addiction in yourself or a loved one, we’ll explore the signs of cocaine addiction, the common symptoms, and how to seek addiction treatment. 

Signs of Cocaine Addiction

Signs of cocaine addiction are those that can be observed and measured by medical professionals, yourself, or those around you. 

We can split these signs into two groups: behavioural and physical. With behavioural signs, you’ll notice a change in how someone acts, while physical signs are shifts in the way a person looks, as well as changes to the body and mind. 

So, what are the common signs of cocaine addiction? There are a few to look out for. To make it easier, we’ve broken it down into a table. 

Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction

Symptoms of cocaine addiction are those which are more specific to the individual and are best described by the person themselves. 

Again, these are split into behavioural and physical symptoms. You may notice some come on quickly, while others take longer. For example, dilated pupils, aggression, and increased heart rate can happen just moments after taking the drug, while weight loss may come later. 

But what are the other symptoms of cocaine addiction? Read the table below to see the common symptoms you should be aware of. 

How Will I Know If I Have a Cocaine Addiction? 

Drug addiction is often associated with daily use, but this isn’t always the case in reality. 

According to the NHS, addiction actually means trying to stop when you physically can’t, regardless of how often you use it. You may use cocaine every so often on a night out with friends, but if you find it impossible to not do the drug within this social setting, then it may be an addiction. 

Common signs and symptoms of addiction provide a starting point for determining whether you may be struggling with addiction. However, if you notice your personal relationships, work, financial position, or health start to be impacted by cocaine, it’s time to seek help.

If at any point you’re concerned about a drug addiction in yourself or a loved one, it’s best to get medical attention as soon as possible. 

Treatment Options for Cocaine Addiction

Getting treatment for a cocaine addiction can feel daunting, intimidating, and nerve-wracking, but it’s important to remember there is help available to regain control of your life. 

You can explore a range of different options independently, while a medical professional will be able to outline the best approach for you. The most common methods of treatment for a cocaine addiction include: 

• Talking therapies: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a common option for drug addiction treatment. CBT explores your beliefs, thoughts, and feelings around cocaine, helping to identify and tackle any potential triggers that leave you reliant on the drug.

• Support groups: Talking to others experiencing addiction can help you feel less alone. Organisations such as Talk to Frank can find a support group in your local area, while your GP will also be able to provide you with local groups. Additionally, you can use Cocaine Anonymous for both online and in-person help. 

• Rehabilitation: Removing yourself from the environment associated with cocaine is an effective way for some to begin recovery – that’s where rehab comes in. You’ll stay at a residential treatment centre where expert care is available around the clock. You can explore our drug addiction rehab services on our website.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

We Can Help You With Cocaine Addiction Recovery

If any of these signs and symptoms of cocaine addiction sound like your experience, we’re here to help. 

Here at Stonebridge Communities, we offer expert, dedicated, professional rehab services. At our treatment centre, you can focus on your recovery journey with us right by your side, helping every step of the way. 

We know seeking addiction treatment is daunting, and that’s why our friendly team is on hand to answer any questions you may have. Give us a call on 01934 311 965 or send us an email at info@stonebridge.rehab. We’re ready and happy to help you. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Cocaine Do To The Body?

Alongside the signs and symptoms of cocaine addiction, there are many other ways this drug can impact your body over time. 

Repeated cocaine use damages the soft tissue in your nose, causing holes in the nose or a perforated septum, which is where a hole forms in the tissue separating your nostrils. Cocaine use can also impact dental health, such as tooth erosion or decay, dry mouth, and mouth sores. 

There’s an increased risk of lung, throat, and dental cancer with excessive use of cocaine as well. Cocaine can also impact your heart, respiratory system (breathing), and the brain, with the risk of blood clots, pneumonia, asthma, seizures, and strokes all increasing. 

If you’re worried about a cocaine addiction in yourself or a loved one, it’s best to seek immediate medical attention to prevent the risks of cocaine to your body. 

What Does Cocaine Withdrawal Feel Like?

While recovering from cocaine addiction is a worthwhile journey, going through it isn’t always easy.

As your body adjusts to life without the drug, you can experience side effects such as fatigue, anxiety, or depression. While these symptoms can be difficult to navigate, they don’t last forever. Typically, cocaine withdrawal symptoms last between three and five days. 

With residential treatment,, you’ll have round the clock care from dedicated experts, helping to making withdrawal that bit easier. 

How Can I Help My Loved One With Cocaine Addiction?

If your loved one is dealing with a cocaine addiction, it’s important to remember it’s not simply poor judgment or bad character; it’s a chronic disease.

While you can’t force someone to seek help, you can offer your patience, love, and understanding as they go through their recovery journey. Encouraging them to speak to a professional and providing support can make all the difference. 

Supporting someone through recovery can be challenging, placing a strain on your relationship with the individual. However, just as there are support groups for the person going through recovery, there are also groups for those helping a loved one on that journey.