Substance abuse is a menace that can turn your life inside out. Ruined relationships, finances, and health, to name a few concerns, can become the order of your daily life. Are you thinking of ways to reshape your life and beat addiction? Cordova substance abuse treatment is recommended as you strive to beat drug dependence. This is more so considering the potential complication that can arise if the condition is left unmanaged. The complications depend on the behavior or type of substance. Below are some substance abuse complications you can experience if you ignore the problem.
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1. Increased risk of infections
Intravenously injected drugs create a high risk of infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B, and C due to sharing dirty needles. Snorted or smoked drugs also increase the risk of upper respiratory infections. The excitement caused by most intoxicating substances, such as cocaine, and alcohol, can lower inhibitions. This excitement increases the chances of taking sexual risks and contracting STDs. Some substances like cocaine affect the immune system’s ability to create white blood cells, further increasing the risk of contracting infections. People who abuse alcohol are predisposed to:
- Acute respiratory distress syndrome
- Respiratory syncytial virus infection
- Tuberculosis
- Pneumonia
2. Cardiovascular complications
Most intoxicating substances cause irregular heartbeat Stimulants can increase your heart’s rate, and CNS depressants slow it down. Consistent low or high blood pressure is connected to an increased risk of ischemic injury, blood clots, and other circulatory complications. Stimulants, such as cocaine and methamphetamines can lead to cardiac arrest and death. Substances taken intravenously can have adverse cardiovascular effects like a local spread of vascular inflammation or cardiac valve infections. It can also cause increased exposure to blood-borne conditions.
3. Liver and kidney damage
Substance abuse puts extra detoxification stress on your kidneys, a load that can lead to infections and damage. On the other hand, kidneys filter toxins from the bloodstream, so they can be affected by the many harmful substances in the blood. As such, substance abuse can cause the kidneys to become overwhelmed and unable to filter toxins effectively, leading to renal failure.
4. Overdose
Mixing different substances or taking excessive amounts can result in an overdose. Pharmaceuticals and prescription medication can also cause an overdose. Nonetheless, overdose is most likely to happen to a person taking substances for recreational purposes. A substance overdose can result in a coma or even death.
5. Injury
Injuries can occur, and this depends on some of the ways the substance is used. For example, when using a needle to inject heroin, the point of injection can cause muscle and skin damage. Also, smoking can cause respiratory illness and lung damage. When intoxicated, you become impaired in balance and coordination, leading to slips, trips, falls, and injuries. Driving under the influence of drugs can even lead to accidents that result in death. Also, some substances prompt violent reactions increasing the risk of aggressive behaviors.
Unmanaged substance abuse exposes you to many complications. Addiction can trigger anxiety, psychosis, and depression, increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts. It can also destroy your relationships and finances, pushing you to crime or illegal activities. Contact WellMind Behavioral Health & Wellness today to learn more about substance abuse, its complications, and available treatment options.
