Cocaine Effects - The Underbelly of the Glamor Drug

Cocaine is sometimes referred to as the caviar of street drugs due to the fact that it is very expensive. It has the rather unique position of being viewed as both glamorous and slummy, used by celebrities and wall street traders alike.
The drug has serious effects on the brain, the heart, and the emotions of the people who use it. It is a highly addictive substance, which can lead to serious consequences for the mind and body with regard to a person's long term health. Even those who only use it occasionally are risking killing themselves with an overdose.
What it Does
Responsible for more visits to the emergency room than any other illegal drug, cocaine hurts the heart, brain, blood vessels, and lungs.
Brain - The blood vessels to the brain are tightened, which can cause a stroke, even in young people who are not at risk of a stroke. It can also cause seizures and lead people to engage in violent or bizarre behaviors.
Gut - Ulcers or perforations can form in the stomach and intestines. This is caused by a constricting of the blood vessels providing oxygen to the gut.
Lungs - The nose and sinuses are harmed when cocaine is snorted. If it is used often, this can cause a hole to form between the nostrils. It almost always causes the lungs to become irritated, and it can cause lung damage that may be permanent.
Heart - The drug accelerates the heart, yet tightens the blood vessels leading into the heart. Even people without heart disease can suffer a heart attack as a result. It can also cause the heart to beat irregularly, which can also lead to instant death.
Kidneys - Sudden catastrophic kidney failure can occur when somebody uses cocaine. Those who already have high blood pressure will also reduce the lifetime of their kidneys.
Sex - The drug can make it more difficult to reach orgasm, despite its reputation for being combined with sex.
Withdrawal
When somebody is no longer able to use cocaine because they don't have the money for it or they have been cut off from it, this can lead to several withdrawal symptoms. The drug works by stimulating the pleasure center of the brain, the part of the brain which causes us to have cravings for sex, food, and virtually all other cravings.
When cocaine is no longer available, it can cause the addict to experience depression and anxiety, difficulty thinking, a lack of cravings or pleasurable feelings, and tiredness. The desire for more cocaine tends to increase before it starts to decrease. Physical symptoms include shaking, chills, aches, and pains.
Withdrawal rarely causes medical problems, but it can lead to thoughts of suicide.

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