If you’re struggling with a drug-related illness, it’s easy to feel isolated in your rehabilitation efforts. However, 10% of Americans will struggle with drug addiction at some point in their lives, so you’re far from alone.
Here, we’re going to talk about some of the most common long term effects of drug abuse that most people see regardless of the drug that they’re on. Read on to learn more about why it’s critical that you take the steps necessary to heal and get your life back on track!
Increases Risk of Heart Problems
It’s worth noting that the specific drugs that you’re addicted to will each have a unique effect from other drugs. However, nearly all substances cause the tissue and blood vessels surrounding the heart to weaken. This plays a role in the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Those who frequently take drugs may lessen the blood flow to the heart, which can ultimately make it difficult for it to do its job of pumping oxygenated blood through your body. This can cause tissue starvation, irregular heartbeat, and even the cutoff of circulation to the brain.
Brain Damage and Stroke: An Elevated Risk
When your oxygenated blood is unable to make its way to the brain, the human body is at higher risk for brain damage. This can cause a lot of other issues for your body. Hearing loss and frequent blackouts are among the less severe long-term issues that brain damage causes. You may find yourself with memory problems or new brain disorders that inhibit your ability to function normally.
Brain hemorrhage and stroke is also a possibility here. There may be bleeding around your brain that causes the clots that lead to stroke. Luckily, drug rehab is an effective way to prevent this from happening! Make sure to look into your options and find a program that works for you.
The Long Term Effects of Drug Abuse on Mental Health
Even if severe physical health effects don’t surface, drug abuse has a long-term effect on mental health. Drugs can cause psychosis and hallucinations as well as paranoia and aggression. This is especially the case due to withdrawal effects. However, even if you aren’t on withdrawal, you may see these issues arise.
In the long term, drug abuse can cause depression long after quitting. Rehabilitation- and entering into it early- can lessen the severity of this depression and ensure that you can get back on your feet.
Begin Your Healing Journey
While there are both short and long-term problems caused by drug and alcohol abuse, it’s possible for you to prevent these long-term issues from coming to fruition.
Now that you know some of the long term effects of drug abuse, it’s time to get more information on how to recover from this illness. Check out the ‘men’s health’ tab on our home page for more information on how to heal. You have the power to get your life back on track and begin to thrive once again.
