When discussing with medical professionals how to detox from cocaine, you’ll be surprised to learn that they usually describe it as easy. In fact, withdrawal isn’t as physically jarring as detox from heroin or alcohol. That said, the process presents specific challenges that a medically equipped facility handles better than an at-home setting.
Cocaine’s Side Effects Create Health Challenges
People struggling with a cocaine addiction use the substance as a stimulant. It works by artificially increasing energy levels and decreasing the need to sleep. The unintended consequence is a gradual breakdown of the body’s immune system, which leaves you more susceptible to illness. It also heightens the danger of cardiac problems.
Someone taking cocaine frequently may not feel the need to eat. Nutritional deficiencies contribute to the gradual breakdown of the body. An alcohol use disorder occasionally accompanies cocaine use, which further deteriorates the body.
How to Detox from Cocaine When a Body is in a Weakened Condition
While using cocaine, you may not notice that you’re feeling sick more frequently or that your heart races more often. However, when you go through cocaine withdrawal, the prolonged neglect of physical wellness becomes pronounced.
You may feel the consequences of vitamin deficiencies as the body rids itself of the stimulant. Mentally, you’ll experience the decrease of dopamine that cocaine used to trigger. The combination of physical and mental withdrawal symptoms makes it easy to rationalize using again if you’re at home. For this and the following reasons, a medically supervised detox at a dedicated facility makes the most sense:
- Controlled environment. Because there’s no quick access to cocaine, you’re less likely to give up. In fact, the presence of a dedicated support staff helps you to stay strong in your resolve to get through all the phases of withdrawal.
- Medications. In detox, medical professionals can help ease your withdrawal symptoms. Some of these symptoms might include suicidal thoughts, anxiety attacks, and physical weakness. Because the body seeks to regain equilibrium, it makes sense to strengthen it in the process.
- Confidence building. Friendly staff members work with you on building your confidence during detox. They help you to see – and celebrate – every victory as you stay firm in your decision to recover. They also assist you in thinking ahead and preparing for the rehab phase of the experience.
Rehab Continues the Journey to Recovery
When learning how to detox from cocaine, you’ll quickly discover that it’s a multi-step process. It begins with the physical withdrawal and continues with cocaine addiction treatmentthat helps you understand the reasons behind your addiction. Rehab is an invaluable tool for relapse prevention as well. When you’re ready to find out what recovery can do for you, contact 1st Step Behavioral Health at (855) 425-4846 today.
