Monday, July 11, 2011

Cardiac Effects of Cocaine

Cocaine, is an illicit drug made from the leaves of the coca plant. It is in the form of white powder and there are different ways of administering cocaine. Even though the pleasure obtained is different for different ways, the affects will be the same. Cocaine abuse is a major problem even in the developed countries like United States and also worldwide. It shows both physical and psychological effects on the person abusing it.

Cocaine is a strong stimulant and affects the central nervous system very badly. It triggers the release of a chemical called dopamine, which brings the information to the brain and prevents its re absorption in to the body. Along with the brain the other part which gets affected the most is the heart. Different kinds of situations arise in case of heart creating a major problem to it. It constricts the blood vessels and as a result blood pressure and heart rate increases which causes irregular heart beats. These conditions may lead to several other serious problems like heart attack, heart failure or enlarged heart.

The effects of cocaine in case of the persons already having heart problems are even more risky. The effects may be even more faster in heart patients when compared to others. Some complications, they may face are heart muscle damage leading to heart failure, clots in coronary arteries, inflammation to the heart lining or fluids in lungs. The effect of cocaine on heart lasts for 18 hours after using it. It may affect the heart immediately or at any time with in 3-4 days.

The effects of cocaine on heart are even worse when it is taken along with alcohol or tobacco. Smoking and cocaine abuse makes the blood vessels even more smaller making the risk of heart attacks more higher. Cocaine and alcohol may cause severe trouble to the liver and heart which may lead to sudden death.

If you are experiencing any kind of problems like chest pain, difficulty in breathing, dizziness etc after using cocaine it is better to consult a doctor even before the situation becomes worse.


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