Casual cocaine use might not seem like such a big deal. Unfortunately, that’s not true. The effects of even a weekend indulgence can cause major life issues. See why you need to be concerned.
Janet works as a school bus driver in the tri-state area. When she was initially hired, she submitted to drug testing. Janet wasn’t abusing substances and tested clean. A couple of years into the job, the company decided to conduct random sampling.
Ironically, it was after the second or third time that Janet decided to try cocaine with some friends. She noticed that everyone seemed functional after they did a couple of lines. Janet didn’t see it as a big issue. As luck would have it, Janet was called into the company office on a Monday morning. She had been selected for a urine test. She came up positive.
Janet’s employer referred her to drug counseling. It was here that the young woman learned the basics of cocaine use. She was surprised to learn the effects of even casual use.
The Short Term Effects of Cocaine Use
Janet’s problems with her job are not unique. She was fortunate that her employer had an employee assistance program in place. Obviously, cocaine use is not acceptable in society or in the workplace. What does it do to the mind and body on a short-term basis?
The National Institute on Drug Abuse warns that the effects of cocaine are immediate and occur on first use. Here is a summary of what even one line of coke can do to the casual user:
- Constrict blood vessels
- Increase body temperature and heart rate
- Elevate blood pressure
- Cause bizarre, erratic and violent behavior
- Act as the source for anxiety or panic attacks
- Stimulate cardiovascular effects, including disturbances in heart rhythm and heart attacks
- Bring on neurological effects, include headaches, seizures, strokes, and coma
- Cause gastrointestinal complications, include abdominal pain and nausea
- Deaths are often related to heart attacks or seizures. They can occur after initial use.
Obviously, addiction and overdose are not the only concerns when it comes to using cocaine. There is evidence that dealers are lacing cocaine with other deadly drugs. The prescription medication fentanyl is being used to intensify the highs of both heroin and cocaine. The combinations have proven to be deadly.
Are You or a Loved One Concerned?
Do you participate in casual cocaine use? It could be fatal. Best to stop now before it’s too late. However, if you feel you or a loved one needs cocaine addiction treatment, Clearbrook’s counselors and staff can provide it to you. We have decades of experience working with people at all levels. Contact us to schedule an appointment to see how we can assist you.
