EDMONDS, Wash. — Addiction treatment center Northpoint Washington recently published a blog post explaining what crack cocaine looks like and delving into the extreme risk crack poses to people's health.
Crack cocaine, also called crack, is a powerful stimulant drug that is made from powdered cocaine mixed with varying ingredients. It is typically boiled, dried, and broken into pieces before being sold. Some also mix the compound with other types of drugs, like marijuana, tobacco, phencyclidine (PCP), and so on. Statistics show crack cocaine addiction is very common among teenagers — and it is even more addictive than pure cocaine.
The natural color of crack cocaine is white, but it also comes in a variety of colors, including brown, yellow, or pink. It has a hard texture and usually takes the form of small pebbles. However, crack can also be seen in different shapes and sizes. 1-3 grams of crack usually costs around $10-20, based on studies. When burned, the color of crack cocaine turns brown, and it releases fumes that are similar to the smell of burning plastic. The smell of crack also changes when mixed with other drugs or chemicals.
Northpoint Washington believes it is crucial to raise public awareness on crack. "Many who consume drugs enjoy using crack because it gives them a certain kind of 'high,'" a center spokesperson said. However, crack consumption negatively affects the brain’s ability to produce dopamine, which is the substance that gives pleasure to the human body. In addition, it also carries numerous side effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure, tooth decay, weight loss, bleeding, depression, lung trauma, breathing problems, and an increased risk of heart attack and seizures. It could also damage a person’s relationship with their family, friends, and career.
The Edmonds, Wash.-based center says early intervention is necessary to address crack addiction effectively. This is the reason family members must always be on the lookout to see if their loved one is showing any symptoms of crack misuse. Signs to look out for include excessive energy, oversensitivity, high body temperature, high blood pressure, tremors, dilated pupils, nausea, restlessness, and more. Those who suffer from crack addiction may also experience nasal problems like the loss of smell, a frequently runny nose, and difficulty swallowing. In worst-case scenarios, a crack overdose may lead to heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeat, seizure, and even death.
Crack misuse can cause other side effects, such as fatigue, nightmares, insomnia, and increased appetite. Malnutrition, dehydration, blood pressure changes, and infections may also develop without professional help.
Northpoint Washington is a professional drug and alcohol treatment center that is dedicated to providing help to those battling substance use disorders. They offer personalized treatment programs and have one of the best crack treatment programs in the state, utilizing a multi-step approach when treating crack addiction. The first step in their 28-day inpatient program is detox, in which therapeutic activities and medical supervision help patients manage uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Rehab comes next and includes dual diagnosis treatments (for mental health issues as well as substance misuse), relapse prevention planning, and more. Their mental health services help patients develop a healthy mindset so they can focus on their recovery. Last but not least, Northpoint Washington offers aftercare services to ensure each patient’s recovery is pursued even outside their medical facility.
For more information on battling crack addiction or any substance use disorder, visit their website.
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For more information about Northpoint Washington, contact the company here:
Northpoint Washington
info@northpointwashington
7416 212th St SW
Edmonds, WA 98026
