All drugs carry some risk of consequences, both with one-time use and, in other cases, long-term use. Some substances created a higher risk of complications, including the development of addiction and dependency, health risks, and cognitive brain function changes. Understanding these risks can help you see the importance of seeking help.
At The Ranch at Dove Tree, our team provides you with the one-on-one support you need to navigate the complexities of drug use, often referred to as substance use disorder (SUD).
Increasing Use of Drugs in Adults Is a Growing Concern
Data shared by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) shows that the number of people between the ages of 26 and 49 using substances is increasing. This includes:
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine (meth)
- Prescription and illicit use of opioids, including fentanyl and heroin
- Marijuana
Since 2015, the number of adults over the age of 26 using marijuana on a daily basis has doubled. Cocaine use and deaths have also risen steadily since 2012, with cocaine now involved in nearly 1 in every 5 overdose deaths. Meth use and overdose deaths have risen fivefold.
What Complications Stem from Continued Drug Use
Every drug carries a risk of different complications. Take into consideration the following potential complications and health risks that stem from continued drug use.
Cocaine
Using cocaine can create numerous health complications, including:
- Development of asthma
- Bone decay leading to incontinence
- Increased risk of HIV
Meth
Meth is highly addictive and creates health risks even on a first use, including the risk of death on a first-time use. Additionally, it speeds up every system in the body to unsafe levels. Chronic use leads to:
- Intense anxiety
- Confusion
- Insomnia
- Paranoia
- Aggression
- Digestive, heart, and lung complications
Opioids
Opioids are highly addictive, even in prescription forms misused. They are one of the leading causes of overdose deaths because of the development of tolerance. A person may feel they need to increase the frequency of the amount used on a continued basis to reach the same level of relief. They also cause:
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Brain damage
- Coma
Marijuana
Though legal in some states, marijuana use can create health complications, including:
- Permanent IQ loss from cognitive function decline
- Mental health complications, including a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide
- Coordination and movement changes
- Addiction
Other Risks of Continued Drug Use
Most drugs create an increased risk of health complications as well as the risk of addiction. The following are some of the most common complications stemming from continued use:
- Heart disease
- Lung disease
- Cancer
- Stroke
- Hepatitis B and C
- Mental health disorders
The National Institute on Drug Abuse also shares that those who continue to misuse substances are at a higher risk of being involved in dangerous situations, including car accidents. There is also an increased risk of complications when drugs are used during pregnancy.
What to Do About Drug Use in Adults You Care About
When your family member is struggling with drug use, the risks to their health are obvious, but getting help isn’t always so easy to navigate. There are several steps you can take now to help your loved one get the guidance they need.
Speak to them about what you are experiencing or seeing in them. Point out only the facts. Talking to family members about their drug use is a first step in realizing that a concern exists for many adults.
Involve their doctors if they see professionals. Make sure their medical care providers understand why they are experiencing these symptoms and health complications.
Contact the Ranch at Dove Tree to explore treatment options. While your loved one will need to make the decision to seek help, contacting our admissions team allows you to learn what we can do for them.
Through the detox process, followed by residential treatment, it may be possible to help your loved one to get the support they need. Your loved one is safe in our medically monitored detox program. We will work to meet not only their dependency concerns, but also any concerns related to physical health. They will receive the care they need to heal.
Many people recover from some of the physical challenges they face due to continued drug use. The sooner they get help, the more likely that improvement can occur. Some drugs do cause permanent damage that’s irreversible. Yet, treatment for those medical conditions, such as heart disease and lung damage, is more effective once they stop using substances.
Contact Our Team to Discuss Your Needs
Turn to The Ranch at Dove Tree today. Let us provide you with insight into what your options are and how we can help your loved one get the treatment they need. Contact us now for immediate help.
