Cocaine is a drug that is commonly used for illegal recreational purposes. It is a powerful stimulant medication with a high potential for abuse and addiction in chronic users. Cocaine can be delivered into the body via different routes; it can be snorted into the nose, inhaled as a gas vapor or injected into the veins. Signs and symptoms of cocaine addictions can often present as adverse physical, psychological and physiological effects.
Appetite Loss
Cocaine can act as an appetite suppressant drug, causing decreased appetite in addicts. An article published in cocainedrugaddiction.com cited that severe weight loss is often seen in cocaine addicts. This is a common physical sign to watch for in addicts. The rapid weight loss occurs over a short time span and the individual shows little interest in eating and food. Physical characteristics in chronic addicts are paleness and thin, fragile and gaunt appearances.
Mental and Physical Signs
Cocaine abuse by addicts increases the risk of many psychological and physical problems. Paranoia, bizarre behaviors, anger and aggression and frequent mood swings from mania to depression are common mental manifestations of cocaine addiction. Increased thoughts of suicide, including auditory and visual hallucinations, are also signs of chronic abuse of cocaine. Common physical signs and symptoms can include headaches, irritability, anxiousness, stomach cramps and frequent episodes of panic attacks. Chronic addiction can cause red eyes and dilated pupils. A study published in the "Journal of Experimental Analysis of Behavior," 1992, by Higgins et al, concluded the effects of mixing cocaine with alcohol increased or exacerbated the disruptive behaviors commonly seen in cocaine addictions.
Cardiovascular Signs
A common sign of cocaine addiction is the effects it has on the cardiovascular system. Long-term abuse of the drug can predisposed addicts to heart arrhythmia or irregular heart rates, cardiovascular diseases and increased risk for strokes. Sudden cardiac arrest or heart attacks can often be a lethal consequence of cocaine addiction, especially when cocaine is mixed with alcohol or other opiate drugs. A 1996 study on cocaine effects on cardiovascular toxicity published by C Schindler in "Addiction Biology" concluded that the metabolites of cocaine causes damages to the heart muscles and cells, which can lead to many cardiovascular problems and diseases.
