Signs of Crack Addiction

Crack is a form of cocaine that is usually smoked through a pipe. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, crack has been a serious problem in the United States since the 1980s. Unlike powder cocaine, which produces a high within minutes, crack produces a high within seconds. This makes crack extremely addictive.

Personality Changes

Crack addiction causes significant personality changes. Generally, right after the user smokes crack, he will experience a period of euphoria, which is followed by a period of depression. Dramatic mood changes occur, such as sudden changes in feelings toward loved ones. When the user feels the need for crack, he might become extremely irritable and irrational. Paranoia, aggression and anger are common among crack users.

Physical Signs

A crack addict may have glassy eyes and burns on the fingers or mouth. Urinary and fecal incontinence are common in crack addicts. Weight loss, sunken eyes, chronic infections, menstrual changes, sensitivity to light, changes in eating habits, sensitivity to sound and profuse sweating may occur. Crack can cause an irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, frequent coughing, muscle tremors, twitching and severe headaches. If a crack user opts to inject crack instead of smoking it, needle marks will be present on the arms, which the addict may try to keep hidden by wearing long sleeves.

Lifestyle Changes

As crack begins to control the addict, aspects of the user's life might change. Valuables might be sold to get money for crack. The addict might steal from family and friends. Less time will be spent with loved ones. Usually, there is little, if any, food in the addict's home. She'll begin to stay out late and sleep at odd hours. The addict sometimes cares little about her appearance and cleanliness.

Complications

Allergic reactions and crack overdose are possible complications of crack addiction. Either of these complications can cause life-threatening complications. Convulsions, a coma or death are all possible. Precursors to these complications include nausea and irregular breathing. Irregular blood pressure is also possible, as is respiratory failure.