The availability of items that are believed to increase energy within the shortest time is fascinating in modern society. Cocaine, among the most powerful illegal stimulants, is usually used for its exciting effects on the body and the mind. But the physical impacts that come with the practice are severe and can even be lethal in some cases.
Although there are some scenes in some movies where the use of this substance seems to be fashionable, cocaine is actually a very dangerous drug that will harm the health of the user in one way or another. But it is important to be familiar with it and the signs of the long-term effects that it may produce. Such information can enlighten people on what is happening and where to go for assistance when necessary.
But first, we shall address a pressing question: What does cocaine look like?
What Does Cocaine Look Like?
Understandably, many people do not know the answer to the ‘What does cocaine look like?’ question. Cocaine most often comes in the form of a fine white crystalline substance. This powder is usually mixed in a way (this is termed as cutting) with other materials like corn starch, talcum powder or substances like amphetamine. Other types of cocaine include ‘crack,’ which is usually in small, irregular, white or off-white crystal like structure. This variation is smoked and can have even more intense effects on the body as soon as it enters the bloodstream.
Recognizing the Immediate Physical Effects of Cocaine Use
Every time people take cocaine, they are likely to feel an immediate surge of happiness. This high is also associated with physical changes that are an accelerated pulse, raised blood pressure, and wide pupils. Users may think that they are being observed, and therefore seem overconfident, and act energized. However, these are initial signs that are temporary and may last for only a few minutes to an hour meaning that the user will need to take more of the substance to achieve the same high, thus leading to overdose.
These effects are sometimes dose-dependent, and sometimes depend on the technique that has been used to administer the substance, as well as the general health of the user.
Cocaine Physical Effects on the Body: The Long-Term Impact
Some of the effects as a result of the long-term intake of cocaine include the following: Inhalation of the substance causes difficulty in smelling, frequent rhinitis, constant inflammation of the nasal septum, and even complications such as the inability to smell at all. Smokers of crack cocaine are likely to develop lung problems such as coughing, difficulty in breathing and perhaps pneumonia.
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Chronic use also impacts on the working of the heart. Cocaine is traditionally known to cause hardening of arterials and subsequent risk of heart attack. It can also cause severe bowel necrosis due to ischemic colitis, poor nutritional status which may result from anorexia and weight loss. Long term users also see great declines in their quality of life because of health issues as well as familial and financial problems.
It is very important to make a note here that it is never too early or too late to help yourself and make a change towards better health. Intervention and prevention can occur before things get out of hand.
