Cocaine, known as ‘coke’ on the street- is an addictive stimulant drug that grows naturally. It is a Schedule II drug, which means that it has a relatively high potential for abuse but may be prescribed by a doctor if needed.
Cocaine is addictive because it causes elevated levels of dopamine and norepinephrine to be released in the brain. The release of these two hormones causes physical changes (like increased blood pressure and heart rate) and pleasurable feelings in the user. Users report feeling euphoric, energetic, and unusually happy, and having lowered inhibitions.
Following the initial euphoria, users often experience a range of adverse effects from cocaine use, including coke bloat. This may cause them to wonder: What does cocaine do to your face? Does coke bloat the face? Does cocaine make your head bigger?
Avenues Recovery, a leading addiction treatment center, delves into the phenomenon of coke bloat, its causes, and effective treatment strategies.
What is Coke Bloat?
Coke bloat, or coke face, is the puffiness or swelling of the face, particularly the cheeks and chin, that often occurs in cocaine users. It is one of the most noticeable signs that someone is addicted to cocaine, along with noticeable weight loss.
Why Does Cocaine Cause Bloating?
Although there is no clear answer as to why cocaine use causes bloating of the face, there are some factors that may contribute to it.
- Impure cocaine: Purchasing cocaine off the street makes it impossible to know what is contained within the cocaine, as drug dealers often ‘cut’ cocaine - mix in other substances to increase profit, causing many additional physical, emotional, and psychological issues. When cocaine is cut with Levamisole (a veterinary deworming drug), it can cause swelling of the parotid glands and therefore lead to coke bloat.
- Blood vessels: Over time, the blood vessels of cocaine users constrict, slowing the blood flow. When the blood vessels constrict, it causes a buildup of lymphatic fluid, causing puffiness and swelling visible on the body above the vessels.
- Imbalance of hormones: Since cocaine, like many drugs, releases dopamine and other hormones in the brain, the user is left with a sharp imbalance of chemicals and hormones in the body. Hormonal imbalance affects the brain negatively in many ways but can also affect the physical appearance of the user.
How to Get Rid of Cocaine Face
There is no known way to prevent cocaine bloat, besides, of course, not using cocaine. Furthermore, trying to heal coke face while still using cocaine is a fruitless endeavor. Any progress made in reversing the swelling will be undone when the person continues to use the drug.
However, once a person begins cocaine addiction treatment and is in recovery, they can try using hydrocortisone to reduce swelling and a cold compress or cooling face mask to relieve the discomfort of the swelling. A derma roller or a cold shower can also reduce the discomfort.
Other Side Effects of Cocaine Misuse
Other than cocaine face, people who abuse cocaine for a prolonged period suffer from various adverse coke symptoms, including:
- Loss of weight
- Excessive sweating
- Headaches
- Muscle aches and twitches
- Irritability
- Exhaustion
- Dilated pupils
- Increased body temperature
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Violent behavior
- Depression
- Anxiety
These negative effects of cocaine use are felt once the drug exits the body and no longer causes pleasant feelings, and are known as withdrawal effects/ symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms are so uncomfortable and unpleasant that users are compelled to take more of the drug to relieve the symptoms - even as they are aware that the withdrawal symptoms will return once the next dosage wears off, too.
Treatment for Coke Bloat and Cocaine Addiction
If you or your loved one are suffering from coke bloat, this may be the impetus to finally admit that they are suffering from substance use disorder and need help. Coke bloat reveals to the world that they are abusing cocaine, but, most of all, it should serve as a stark physical reminder that these dangerous chemicals are wreaking havoc on their bodies.
When you or your loved one has the courage to admit that they help, know that there are many treatment options available that can help them recover fully from their addiction. Avenues Recovery Center has specialized cocaine addiction treatment programs. Our program begins with a medical detox, where our expert staff ensures the utmost comfort. Our talented and empathetic staff have helped thousands of people overcome their addictions, and they can help you too. We use a mix of traditional and holistic therapies and personalized treatment plans to facilitate real and lasting recovery. Contact Avenues Recovery Center today to start your journey toward true healing and sobriety.