Tips for Detecting Signs of Cocaine Use and Abuse

Tips to help to determine if your loved one is using or abusing cocaine

Due to the addictive nature of cocaine, people who use the drug often abuse the drug. Knowing if someone is using cocaine typically isn’t that hard to tell. However, knowing how to spot a coke addict or abuser can be difficult at times. If you are under the impression that your loved one is showing signs of cocaine use or abuse, we strongly recommend encouraging your loved one to seek help. Cocaine s a very powerful drug which has the ability to negatively impact a person’s overall well-being. If left untreated, a cocaine use problem can turn into full-blown dependence or addiction. Many cocaine addictions go undetected and untreated because people overlook or ignore the signs of the presence of a drug problem.

Signs of Cocaine Use and Cocaine Addiction Symptoms

Drug addiction and abuse appear differently in everyone. Nonetheless, there are common signs and symptoms that most coke abusers and addicts will exhibit. Knowing how to spot a coke addict can be a little less challenging if you follow our tips for observing signs of cocaine use and abuse. The following are common signs and symptoms of cocaine abuse and addiction:

  • Loss of control over cocaine use
  • Heightened tolerance for cocaine
  • Continued use of cocaine despite knowing the negative consequences associated with use
  • Experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when use of cocaine has been significantly reduced or ceased abruptly
  • Lack of personal upkeep (i.e. poor personal hygiene)
  • Experiencing negative health consequences
  • Intense cravings for cocaine
  • Constantly under the influence of cocaine or exhibiting drug-using behaviors
  • Drug paraphernalia on the person or among their personal belongings
  • Frequent nosebleeds
  • Isolation and withdrawing from friends and family

These are just some of the many signs and symptoms associated with cocaine abuse and addiction. If you or your loved one are exhibiting any of the signs or symptoms listed above, seek help immediately. Cocaine addiction is not an issue that just goes away on its own. Although it cannot be cured, it can be effectively treated and managed.

Questions to Ask Yourself or Your Loved One

WhiteSands Treatment suggests asking yourself or your loved one the following questions if you are lead to believe that they may be suffering from a cocaine use problem.

  • Do you feel compelled to cut down on your use of cocaine, but are unable to?
  • Have you made unsuccessful attempts at reducing or ceasing the use of cocaine?
  • Are you hiding your cocaine use from your loved ones because you are ashamed?
  • Have you lied, cheated, or stolen to obtain or use cocaine?
  • Do you use cocaine under dangerous circumstances (i.e. while caring for an infant or toddler?)
  • Have you developed a tolerance for cocaine and need to use increased amounts to achieve the same high?
  • Do you isolate yourself or withdraw from loved ones in relation to your cocaine use?
  • Are you experiencing troubles at work, home, and/or school in relation to your cocaine use?
  • Do you experience symptoms of withdrawal when the use of cocaine has been reduced or ceased abruptly?
  • Are you losing interest in hobbies and activities that you once enjoyed?
  • Do you want to quit but don’t know how to ask for help?
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.

About the Author

is a proud alumni member of WhiteSands Treatment. After living a life of chaos, destruction and constant let downs, Mark was able to make a complete turnaround that sparked a new way of life. He is serious about his recovery along with helping others. At WhiteSands Treatment, we offer support to you in your homes or when you are out living in your daily lives.