How Addiction Impacts Your Physical Health

The link between physical health and addiction is often a concern for people who suffer from substance use disorders. In some cases, these conditions can be present before an active addiction sets in, and in other cases, they can develop after prolonged use. The withdrawal symptoms of addiction can also lead to higher-risk behaviors.

Links Between Addiction And Your Physical Health

The adverse effects of addictive substances are inescapable. Various types of drugs can have detrimental effects on one’s physical health. Each of these has its own set of risks. Some of these include fatal overdoses and painful withdrawal symptoms. High blood pressure, digestive issues, and stroke are some of the conditions that can be caused by alcohol. Stimulants can also trigger arrhythmia and increase the temperature. Opiates can weaken the immune system and cause a coma or even poor breathing. Benzodiazepines can cause low blood pressure and sleep apnea.

Different Means Of Taking Drugs Case Varying Physical Effects

Besides the effects of alcohol and drugs on one’s physical health, how people use illicit substances can also have detrimental effects. Some of these include how they commonly consume drugs, such as smoking, injecting, and snorting.

IV Use

Using intravenous drugs, which are also known as IV users, increases the risk of getting HIV and Hepatitis C. These conditions can affect the users’ heart valves and impact their bodies at the point of impact. IV use can result in fatal consequences, which is why it is considered one of the most dangerous ways to consume illicit substances. The toxic effects of drugs that are injected directly into the bloodstream can lead to serious health issues.

Smoking

One of the most harmful effects of illicit substances is smoking. In terms of addiction, it is almost as addictive as using drugs. The smoke you inhale travels to your lungs and causes an immediate and intense high. The effects of smoking are similar to those of drugs, and continued use can create a strong link between the use of illicit substances and the act of smoking. Using illicit substances can lead to respiratory infections and damage your lungs. It can also increase your risk of developing eye problems, heart disease, and asthma. Smoking increases the chance of getting certain types of cancers, such as those in the esophagus, mouth, and lungs.

Snorting

Although snorting is less addictive than using drugs, it can still have detrimental effects on one’s physical health. In terms of substance use disorders, snorting can lead to accelerated development. When drugs are snorted, they typically take around five to ten minutes to enter the bloodstream. Snorting can also lead to respiratory infections and damage your lungs. Nosebleeds are a common issue caused by damaged nasal tissues. Vomiting and persistent throat and runny nose problems are also common.

Poor Lifestyle Habits

One of the most common factors contributing to addiction development is poor lifestyle habits. When people become dependent on drugs, they tend to prioritize obtaining more substances of their choice, even though the consequences of their actions can be obvious. In addition to poor grooming and nutrition, other factors such as insomnia and lack of sleep can also affect the users’ decision-making abilities.