Cocaine typically comes in a powdered form, and crack cocaine is the crystal form of cocaine. It is colored yellow, pale rose or white and is usually sold in blocks. Crack cocaine is inexpensive and easily accessible. The most common way people use crack cocaine is by heating the block and then smoking the vapors. Crack cocaine is known to be the most potent form of cocaine available. Studies have indicated that on average, crack cocaine is around 75% to 100% pure, which makes it far more potent than regular cocaine.
Signs and Symptoms
The specific signs and symptoms that may manifest as a result of an addiction will vary, as each person is different. Several common signs and/ or symptoms that may be exhibited by an individual struggling with an addiction to crack cocaine can include any combination of the following examples:
- Dilated pupils
- Aggressive behavior
- Restlessness
- Increased breathing rate
- Burns on fingers
- Cracked and/ or blistered lips
- Paranoia
- Nausea
It is important to note that an individual that exhibits any of the above symptoms may be struggling with an addiction to crack cocaine and/ or abusing another substance. If left untreated, an addiction can lead to severe long-term consequences, and in some cases death.
Detox
The first step in treating an addiction to crack cocaine is for an individual to undergo the detox process. Detox is the cleansing process that rids one’s body of all foreign substances. There are a variety of detox methods available, but individuals that struggle with crack cocaine abuse are advised to undergo a medical detox or a medically assisted detox. The withdrawal symptoms can be incredibly unpleasant and medical intervention during the detox process can help alleviate some of the discomforts. Although detoxing from crack cocaine is rarely life-threatening assuring medical supervision throughout the duration of the process can enable immediate medical intervention should it be required, as well as assure the individual’s safety during his or her detox process.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Any individual that has habitually abused any substance is bound to experience withdrawal symptoms during his or her detox phase. Withdrawal symptoms are the body’s way of physically reacting to removing a substance with which it has become accustomed to functioning. Some commonly reported examples of withdrawal symptoms that occur from crack cocaine detox include, but are not limited to the following:
- Anxiety
- Exhaustion
- Irritability
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
- Shaking
- Difficulty sleeping
- Anger
- Inability to feel pleasure
- Lack of motivation
Every individual is different and will likely experience a somewhat unique set and/ or severity of symptoms when it comes to withdrawing from crack cocaine. The duration of withdrawal symptoms will vary, but most will generally subside around a month after one’s last dose of crack cocaine.
Treatment
Addiction affects all areas of an individual’s life. Any person that has struggled with addiction has prioritized his or her addiction above all else, which can create damaging habits and reinforce unhealthy patterns. Attending a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program subsequent to one’s successful completion of detox is fundamental to one’s continued sobriety and successful recovery. There are inpatient treatment programs available, as well as outpatient treatment options. Inpatient treatment programs require the individual to reside at the treatment facility for the duration of his or her treatment program. This can allow for a completely immersive treatment experience. An outpatient treatment program provides daily treatment while the individual continues to reside at home. Depending on the specific needs of the individual, either treatment option can provide an individual with a solid foundation for his or her recovery.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to substance abuse and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one.
