Effects of Cocaine on the Heart

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug that can produce intense short-term effects, including a feeling of euphoria and increased energy. However, cocaine use can also have both short and long-term consequences, especially when it comes to your heart health. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize the danger until it’s too late. The effects of cocaine on the heart can be fatal. At Greater Boston Addiction Centers, we understand the devastating effects of cocaine use and are committed to helping those in need of treatment get back on their feet.

If you are looking for cocaine rehab near Boston, contact Great Boston Addiction Centers at 877.920.6583. Our treatment in Needham, Massachusettes, provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals recovering from cocaine use. We offer comprehensive care that includes individual counseling, group therapy, and access to medical professionals. Our team of experienced clinicians and counselors will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. A brighter future is possible.

Cocaine Misuse

Cocaine misuse can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Effects of cocaine misuse include:

• Increased risk of cardiovascular and heart problems, including chest pain, palpitations, heart arrhythmias, and even sudden death
• Elevated blood pressure and increased pulse rate
• Damage to the nose, throat, lungs, larynx, and other organs in the body
• Mental health issues such as paranoia, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders
• Increased risk of stroke

Long-term cocaine abuse can also lead to social and financial consequences. Individuals who misuse cocaine often experience legal problems due to their drug use, as well as strained relationships with family and friends. Financial costs associated with cocaine use can add up quickly from lost wages, medical bills, and court costs. Getting professional help for cocaine misuse is often the only way to get back on track and reduce long-term risks.

The Effects of Cocaine on the Heart

Immediately after using cocaine, users experience a surge in blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. This can cause chest pain or a heart attack due to constricted arteries from high levels of adrenaline in the bloodstream. As if that weren’t enough, there’s an increased risk for stroke because cocaine increases clot formation and makes platelets stickier than normal. Long-term abuse can also lead to abnormal heart rhythms called arrhythmias and cardiomyopathy (weakening of the heart muscle), which can ultimately lead to congestive heart failure or death due to sudden cardiac arrest.

Long-term effects of cocaine use involve changes in the structure and function of the cardiovascular system. Some possible structural effects include coronary artery disease (narrowing or hardening of the arteries), cardiomyopathy (stiffening/thickening/weakening of the walls), and endocarditis (inflammation in one or more chambers). Other long-term effects include:

• Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Congestive heart failure (CHF) due to damage done by damaged vessels or weakened muscles

Furthermore, chronic users may develop arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, which could be fatal if not treated appropriately.

Find Treatment for Cocaine at Greater Boston Addiction Centers

Cocaine addiction is a serious medical condition that requires professional help for recovery and relapse prevention. Here at Greater Boston Addiction Centers, we understand how difficult it can be for someone suffering from addiction to take that first step toward recovery. It’s especially important when it comes to a powerful and addictive substance like cocaine. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s needs in a safe and supportive environment. Contact us today by calling 877.920.6583 or by filling out our secure online form to learn more about the effects of cocaine on the heart. Our team of experts is here to help.