The short-term effects of drug abuse can feel positive. Euphoric highs, feelings of invincibility, and lush visions may all seem attractive. However, drug abuse over time can impact multiple areas of health and wellness, so all areas of personal well-being should be monitored for changes by a physician. Understanding the long-term effects of drug abuse may help individuals make more informed decisions.
Heart Health Problems
The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that heart health problems can arise from drug abuse over time. Cocaine, inhalants, methamphetamines and steroids have all been linked to cardiovascular stress and damage over time. Drugsline adds that long-term abusers of alcohol prove more likely to suffer from heart disease than the general population.
Nerve Damage
Drugs like ecstasy can cause nerve damage over prolonged periods of time, reports the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Drugsline notes that cocaine use can shift the way the nervous system responds to stimuli and alcohol or prescription drug abuse can impair motor skills permanently with tremors.
Mental Health Issues
Drug abuse over time has been linked to mental health problems. The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that drug abuse can worsen existing mental health conditions. In certain individuals, drug abuse can cause mental imbalances, such as hallucinogenic flashbacks, mood swings and clinical depression. Drugsline notes that lingering side effects of paranoia and psychosis may linger for years after use. The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that children exposed to drugs in the womb or throughout their childhood may also have cognitive and mental health challenges to overcome later in life.
Memory Loss
Drugsline notes that some drugs, such as ecstasy and marijuana can cause memory loss over time. Both short term and permanent memory can become affected.
Cancer
One of the more serious effects of drug abuse over time is the development of cancer. The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that long-term smoking can cause throat, lung, mouth and esophageal cancer. The University of North Carolina points out that 2 to 4 percent of cancers are alcohol related, with risk levels rising with consumption levels.
