Effects of Drugs on the Body

Substance abuse takes on many different forms due to the many types of substances available on the market. Unfortunately, the effects of drugs on the body can be unpredictable and may change on a person without warning. That’s why we at Atlantic Recovery Center prepared this information to help make it easier for you to understand this potential danger.

The Effects of Drugs on the Body Vary in Many Ways

When a person takes drugs, their body will experience many different effects. These vary based on a variety of factors, including:

• The drugs taken
• The strength of the drug
• How it was made
• The size of the dose
• How long a person has been taking drugs
• The method that they used
• The physical characteristics of their body.

As a result, many factors can influence a person’s risk of addiction.

Their biology, gender, ethnicity, emotional troubles, environment, and personal development all play a role. For example, a young child surrounded by drug users in a family may be more likely to abuse. This type of recidivism is a real problem for drug rehabilitation. Even worse, these factors can change how the effects of drugs on the body occur, intensifying them in unexpected ways. Below, we will discuss the different types of drugs and their impact on your body to help you during your recovery.

Depressants Dull the Body

When a person takes depressants, the effects on their body will vary. As the drug goes into effect, the messages going to and from the brain slow down, and a person feels very relaxed. Typical depressants include marijuana, alcohol, heroin, other opiates, many types of painkillers, and tranquilizers. Those who take these substances can anticipate many changes, including:

• Decreased memory capabilities
• Worsened concentration and focus
• Lowered coordination and movement abilities
• Decreased inhibition and self-control
• Harder time staying awake

A small dose may not cause too many adverse reactions. However, all of these reactions get worse as a person takes more of a depressant. Moreover, higher levels will slow the body down to the point where a person may fall into a coma and dies. The effects of drugs on the body like these can be terrifying to consider.

Hallucinogens Change Your Senses

Those who take hallucinogens are going to start seeing and hearing things that aren’t there. It isn’t uncommon to suddenly see an animal or a person in a room that doesn’t exist. However, perceptions can also be distorted or changed. For example, you may see the walls of a room appear to “melt” or go into “waves” when you take a hallucinogen.

Other physical reactions that may occur include jaw clenching, stomach problems, and extreme nausea. Emotional effects include intense euphoria, panic, and paranoia. Drugs that fall under this heading include ketamine, LCD, PCP, and certain types of mushrooms. The intensity varies depending on the drug, with LCD and PCP being the strongest.

Stimulants Overpower the Body

People who need help focusing on critical tasks may take stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines, methamphetamine, cocaine, and ecstasy. These substances are the opposite of depressants, and the effects of drugs on the body speed up your central nervous system.

As a result, your heart will race, your body temperature will increase, and your blood pressure may skyrocket. In addition, you’ll have an intense level of energy that is nearly impossible to control. Small amounts of stimulants may help with focus. For instance, doctors prescribe medical types to control ADD and ADHD. However, too much can make a person paranoid, cause panic, sleeplessness, reduced appetite, and intense cramps. As a result, aftercare treatment is crucial.

We Can Help You Recover

If you are worried about drug addiction and need help with your recovery, please contact us at Atlantic Recovery Center today to learn more. When you call 1-866-824-5193, you get access to a caring facility that understands your addiction and how it develops. Our small and intimate residential treatment center houses only seven people, so you will get to know everybody very well during your care. We consider our clients to be family and strive to create a caring atmosphere. So please verify your insurance to start today and to transform your life for the better.