Cocaine is a highly addictive illegal drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant. The worst part is that all it takes is to try the drug once to send someone into a pattern of cocaine abuse. Unfortunately, cocaine distribution is rampant, as evidenced by the 14 tons of cocaine seized by law enforcement, as reported on KTLA 5.

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Cocaine abuse comes with more than a handful of warning signs that can easily be detected, especially if you know what to look for. This is important, as the success of drug rehab in Orange County is influenced by how early someone who abuses cocaine gets help. After all, the sooner the drug is out of a person’s life, the better. If you suspect that your loved one is abusing cocaine, be on the lookout for the following signs: bloodshot eyes, weight loss, and anxiety attacks.

Bloodshot Eyes

One of the most common physiological effects of frequent cocaine abuse is having bloodshot eyes. This symptom often manifests during the end of the high cocaine use provides. Another cause of bloodshot eyes is the lack of sleep attributed to frequent cocaine use and addiction.

Rapid and Unexplained Weight Loss

Cocaine and weight loss can often times go hand in hand. Regular cocaine use can cause a curb in appetite due to the sudden “rush of energy”. Over time, this can eventually lead to rapid weight loss. Generally, you should be able to notice rapid weight loss in your loved one, especially if you see each other every day. If your loved one is experiencing rapid weight loss, but you have noticed that he or she hasn’t been exercising enough to justify the weight loss, cocaine may be the culprit.

Episodes of Anxiety

Anxiety in itself cannot be attributed to cocaine use, but it is a common symptom among cocaine users who haven’t had a “hit” in a while. This is a psychological reaction as the body is demanding for another taste of that high. Aside from anxiety, other emotions exhibited may include paranoia, confusion, aggressiveness, and depression—mostly during the period in between doses.

Treatment for Cocaine Addiction in Orange County

If you observe all the signs above, do not be afraid to confront your loved one and have him or her check-in at a respected Orange County drug rehab center like Ranch Creek Recovery. Be sincere in your efforts to provide him or her with the love, help, and support needed to overcome the addiction.

Sources:

More Than 14 Tons of Cocaine Seized in Record Series of Busts Displayed in San Diego, KTLA 5

How to Tell If a Person Is Using Cocaine, LiveStrong.com