The Health Problems That Arise From Addiction

How Addiction Affects Your Physical Health

When it comes to substance dependence, the effects can be life-changing. In some cases, the results of drug or alcohol use can be life-threatening. So, it’s important to be aware of the health issues that can arise as a result of addiction.

Of course, there is no list containing all of the possible outcomes when it comes to addiction. After all, each individual who suffers from substance use disorder is different and unique. Each individual has a unique genetic makeup. Also, other things determine the way in which substance use affects people. For example, a person who has co-occurring disorders may experience different physical health changes than someone who does not have a dual diagnosis. Still, there are some physical health complications that may occur in most cases of addiction, depending on the substance.

Heroin Use: Physical Health Complications

An individual who is suffering from heroin dependence may experience a range of physical health complications. Many of those who use heroin do so intravenously. This means that they inject the drug into their bodies using a needle. As a result of this method of heroin use, individuals may be subject to collapsed veins. They may also develop various infections. It’s also common for people to share needles when using heroin. This can lead to infections and issues such as HIV and tuberculosis.

Sometimes, people snort or smoke heroin. This makes them subject to different physical health complications. Individuals may have lung problems and difficulty breathing. Constipation and loss of appetite may also occur. Tooth decay and other dental problems may develop. Other physical health complications that might arise due to heroin dependence include the following:

Women who misuse heroin may develop menstrual problems and/or infertility. Some people may have kidney disease, skin infections, or hepatitis. In some extreme and intense cases, heroin use can even result in coma.

The Negative Physical Effects of Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol is a legal substance, making it more accessible. Most people enjoy an occasional drink or two. However, alcohol use can eventually become problematic. Some individuals develop a problem that prevents them from being able to limit the amount of alcohol they consume. They lose the ability to stop drinking, even when their alcohol use poses a threat. This can lead individuals to drink and drive or drive after they’ve had far too much to drink. It can also cause dangerous or risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex which can lead to some serious consequences like STDs.

Some of the health issues that can arise from alcohol dependence include the following problems:

Excessive alcohol use can also lead to alcohol poisoning. This is a serious problem that requires immediate attention and treatment. When a person is poisoned by alcohol, he or she may experience nausea, vomiting, unconsciousness, confusion, and breathing problems.

How Cocaine Impacts Physical Health

Cocaine often causes very serious short-term effects. But, when people use this drug for a while, it’s likely that they will develop major health complications. Some of the physical effects of cocaine use may include:

Individuals may use cocaine in various ways. Some may snort the drug, which can lead to nasal damage and loss of smell. People may also experience frequent nosebleeds or have trouble swallowing. Those who smoke the drug might experience respiratory failure. Sometimes, people use this drug by injecting a cocaine-water mixture using a needle. This can cause various infections to develop. People may suffer from hepatitis or HIV. It can also lead to the development of abscesses. Users may also rub the drug on their gums, which might lead to other health complications such as tooth decay.

Treatment for Substance Dependence and the Health Conditions it Causes

When individuals find themselves suffering from substance use disorder, they may begin to seek help. Unfortunately, some of the health complications that occur as a result of substance dependence are irreversible. However, individuals can receive treatment to help them manage many of these conditions. For example, certain medications may help people who are suffering from high blood pressure, heart problems, or immune system problems. Depression and anxiety that may arise from substance misuse can be treated through therapy.

Substance use disorder itself can be treated, too. Individuals who are suffering from this issue can find freedom and hope through professional treatment. Those who go through treatment for addiction usually engage in a detox process. Then, they can go through treatment programs such as inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, or an intensive outpatient program (IOP). Throughout these programs, people learn more about their struggle with substance dependency and how to overcome the challenges of recovery. They can also gain the skills they need in order to avoid relapse and continue living a life that is free from substance dependence.

While in treatment for substance use disorder, people can get the support and guidance they need through individual therapy, group therapy, and even family counseling. Holistic approaches are also helpful as they are non-medicinal ways to obtain healing and freedom from the effects of addiction.

Debunking the Myths That Surround Substance Use

After using drugs or alcohol for a long time, individuals can expect to experience various effects. Again, the type of symptoms a person experiences will depend heavily on the type of substance he or she uses and how long the person misuses that substance.

But, regardless of the type of substance a person is using, it’s important to debunk unhealthy and false ideas that may surround substance use. After all, unhealthy thought processes often prevent people from getting the help they need, even when the consequences of substance use are evident.

“Prescription drug use is less likely to lead to addiction.”

This is absolutely false. Yes, many types of prescription drugs and medications help to alleviate pain, treat mental health disorders, and manage other symptoms. But, the idea that an individual can use these substances excessively with no consequences is simply untrue. While these drugs are meant to be helpful, they can sometimes cause issues.

Many times, people who use these substances develop a dependence on them. After all, these drugs help to deal with the issues people may be facing in their bodies. However, this dependence and tolerance may eventually lead people to use more medication than the recommended amount. Or, they may begin to mix their medication with other substances, such as heroin or alcohol, in order to strengthen the effects. This is known as drug misuse. Eventually, the person may develop a full-blown addiction.

“Alcoholism is not as likely as other drug use problems.”

Since alcohol is a legal substance and fairly easy to access, people struggle with the reality of its dangers. In some cases, the fact that alcohol is so easily accessible only makes it more likely to become problematic. Unfortunately, alcohol is a substance that many people tend to use in excess. This can lead to very serious and life-altering consequences.

“It won’t hurt to just try cocaine or heroin.”

Substance use disorder often develops as a result of experimentation. Individuals who seek the opportunity to simply “try” a drug or two often find themselves doing much more than just trying these substances. Before they realize what is happening, they’re suffering from substance misuse.

Addressing these harmful thought processes can help to end denial and encourage people to get treatment for substance use disorder.

Get the Help You Need Today at Discovery Institute

If you are suffering from substance use disorder, know that there is hope for you. You can overcome this problem with help from people who truly understand. Your struggle with substance use may cause you to feel overwhelmed and helpless. But, here at Discovery Institute, we can assist you as you work to take your life back. With help, support, and guidance from our compassionate team, you can gain the skills you need in order to leave addiction in your past.

You don’t have to fight drug or alcohol dependence alone. Allow us to help you today! If you’re ready to take the first step toward freedom from substance use disorder, just contact us today.