Cocaine has been a part of your life for some time. You used it during college while you pursued a double major because it got you through those all-nighters and helped your social life. Things never got too crazy, only a few bumps here and there to keep you awake and focused. College is meant for experimenting anyway, so it’s not like you were the only one doing it.
As you continued in life, cocaine stayed your secret weapon, allowing you to work 16 to 18-hour days to achieve the role of partner at the firm. The long days and nights seemed endless, but you knew how good life would get once you landed the promotion. But, despite your efforts, the role was given to a co-worker. How could this happen? Irate, you lose control and go out to the bar with some friends. Rounds and rounds of cocaine and shots later, you feel like you can’t breathe. Your chest is tight, your forehead sweating, hands shaking, and you don’t know if you want to throw up or pass out. What is going on? Did you take too much cocaine?
In Pinellas and Pasco Counties, 153 deaths caused by cocaine occurred in those aged 35 and older in 2020. At Tranquil Shores, we understand that substance use can affect anyone no matter what age they are. Our facility keeps the client-to-staff ratio low – at 3:1 – ensuring each one receives the individual attention they deserve. Using a holistic approach, we are able to address all aspects of addiction and promote the journey to recovery. Our blog is a free resource for those wondering about addiction in themselves or loved ones. Today, we are discussing the signs of a cocaine overdose, and what to do if you see it happen.
What Is a Cocaine Overdose?
The body is constantly working to keep us healthy – from processing allergens and air quality to removing toxins and regulating functions. When cocaine enters the body, it begins working to remove the cocaine because the body sees it as toxic. This process takes time, and when too much cocaine is introduced, the body becomes overwhelmed. This is where a cocaine overdose occurs, and the central nervous system becomes most affected. Cocaine is a stimulant, essentially speeding up certain systems such as the cardiac and circulatory. A cocaine overdose sends these systems into dangerous and possibly life-threatening spirals.
Early Warning Signs of a Potential Cocaine Overdose
When it comes to stimulants such as cocaine, early warning signs of an overdose can mimic regular use. The effects of cocaine only last around 15 to 30 minutes, and the person using will want to take more to keep the effects going. But, cocaine is still in the body, even if the effects are not felt anymore. Adding more cocaine will lead to an overdose before the person realizes it.
Signs & Symptoms of a Cocaine Overdose
Cocaine works in the body by speeding up the central nervous system. This causes body systems such as the circulatory and cardiovascular to work in overdrive. However, cocaine also causes dopamine to leave the brain at a much slower rate. Dopamine is the reward chemical, and creates feelings of pleasure and euphoria. When in a dopamine rush, it is easy to ignore negative symptoms happening within the body. Rapid heart rate can be brushed off as just adrenaline, when it is actually a sign of a cocaine overdose. Other symptoms include:
- Chest pain and tightness
- Increase body temperature
- Nausea or vomiting
- Increased sweating
- Seizures
Dangers of an Overdose
With a cocaine overdose, it is crucial to note that there is no medication to reverse the effects; the body has to metabolize the cocaine on its own. When the central nervous system is sped up, risks of heart attacks, strokes, and seizures occur. Medical professionals can treat these conditions, but ultimately, they can’t undo the amount of cocaine taken. If left untreated, the heart could stop completely, leading to coma and life-threatening organ damage.
In the Event of an Overdose
It is imperative to seek medical attention in the event of a cocaine overdose. Even if the person says they feel fine, seeing the signs of an overdose means it is time for help. Always stay with the person until medical personnel arrive, especially in the event of cocaine use. Cocaine causes bouts of extreme energy and can cause erratic and reckless behavior. The person may try to run from help, even though they need it.
Who Is at Risk of a Cocaine Overdose
Like many substances, using cocaine even just once puts you at risk for an overdose. The effects of cocaine are short-lived, and the person will use more to keep feeling the effects. However, cocaine is still present in the body even when the effects wear off, which puts the person at risk for an overdose.
Those who are more likely to develop a heart condition due to genetics are at risk for a cocaine overdose. Prolonged cocaine use can cause the condition to emerge sooner or develop at a faster rate than someone who does not use cocaine. If the heart is compromised in any way, the risk of a cocaine overdose increases.
Risk Factors for Cocaine Overdose
Several factors can put you at risk for a cocaine overdose. These include:
- Having a cocaine or substance use disorder
- Having family or friends who use cocaine often
- Mixing cocaine with other substances such as alcohol
- Having an undiagnosed mental health condition
- Having a physical health condition such as high blood pressure or heart disease
- Being raised in a chaotic or unstable environment
- Being genetically predisposed to risky behaviors
Understanding the Common Signs of a Cocaine Overdose
By understanding the common signs of a cocaine overdose, you could help save the life of yourself or someone you love. When chest pain becomes paired with rapid and difficult breathing, it is time to seek help. The Good Samaritan Law in Florida allows anyone in good faith to help with an overdose situation without the risk of liability. It also protects those seeking treatment for an overdose from criminal charges.
It is also important to understand the signs of a cocaine use disorder. For those who use cocaine frequently, withdrawal symptoms may appear between uses. Cocaine withdrawal can cause uncomfortable physical symptoms, but also mental health distress leading to chaotic behavior. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms can cause the person to use more cocaine at a faster rate, which can lead to an overdose.
Treatment Options for Cocaine Use Disorder
If you or someone you love has experienced a cocaine overdose, it is not too late to break the cycle. Cocaine can change the way the brain thinks, and rerouting the thought process is not easy – but it is possible. With the help of therapy, skill-building, and a strong support system, treatment for cocaine use disorder is achievable. Putting the effort into yourself instead of cocaine will be more rewarding than any high ever was.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Cocaine addiction treatment is discreet and serene right on the beach here at Tranquil Shores. We understand that you didn’t work hard for your career overnight, and seeking treatment may jeopardize that. Our team works with you and allows you to have any electronic devices needed to continue working while focusing on your healing. Together, we will help you relearn yourself and prepare you for a life cocaine-free. Call us today at 727-391-7001 to learn more about our program offerings.
FAQs About Cocaine Overdose
What is cocaine overdose?
A cocaine overdose occurs when the body is overwhelmed by the amount of cocaine in the system. It can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and seizures if left untreated.
Who is at risk of cocaine overdose?
Anyone who uses cocaine is at risk for an overdose. Those with heart conditions, genetic predispositions to reckless behavior, or early exposure to cocaine are more likely to experience a cocaine overdose.
