Substance Abuse Program in North Carolina

Long-term and excessive alcohol use can cause a host of health issues, with the liver being primarily affected. Heavy drinking is frequently associated with cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and fatty liver, with cirrhosis frequently culminating in liver failure. Abuse of alcohol also causes blood pressure to rise, which increases the risk of heart failure and heart disease. Gastrointestinal problems, immune system weakness, and pancreatitis are compounding the physical toll.

Opioid abuse has a catastrophic effect on a person’s physical and mental health as well as their social relationships. Abuse of opioids can physically cause respiratory depression, which is characterized by a marked slowing down of breathing and frequently results in overdose deaths. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, and drowsiness; additionally, intravenous use raises the risk of infections, including Hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS. Long-term opioid use can result in dependence, which can cause withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped, and tolerance, which means higher doses are required to get the same result. Opioid abuse has been linked to a widespread sense of apathy, anxiety, and depression on a mental and emotional level. Long-term opioid use can affect memory and cognitive abilities.

Physically, cocaine’s stimulant qualities raise blood pressure and heart rate, which raises the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. While smoking crack cocaine damages the lungs and may result in respiratory problems, snorting cocaine damages the tissues of the nose. Prolonged usage can cause teeth grinding and bad oral hygiene, which can cause serious dental issues. Cocaine abusers are more prone to infections and illnesses because it frequently causes weight loss, malnutrition, and a weakened immune system.

Meth abuse significantly affects the central nervous system, leading to hyperthermia, elevated blood pressure, and an accelerated heartbeat. Long-term usage can lead to serious dental issues, commonly known as “meth mouth,” and skin sores from constant scratching. Long-term meth use damages the immune system, causes severe weight loss and malnutrition, and leaves users susceptible to infections.

Benzo abuse can have a number of negative effects on a person’s physical and mental health. Benzodiazepines cause extreme drowsiness and sedation, impairing coordination and alertness. Common side effects include respiratory depression, muscle weakness, and the emergence of tolerance and dependence. Excessive dosages may cause potentially fatal overdoses. 

Trying to stop using benzos can result in severe withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, so it’s imperative that people who are addicted to these drugs get professional assistance.

Prescription drug abuse can physically cause damage to essential organs like the liver and kidneys, as well as respiratory, cardiac, and digestive disorders. Impaired nervous system function can result in numbness and weakness of the muscles. Cognitive functions can be seriously compromised, resulting in memory issues and poor focus. Mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression, frequently accompany prescription drug abuse.