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Why do we sweat?
Most commonly we sweat when it’s hot out or we’ve exerted ourselves, right? We know that it helps cool the body down, even if it can be uncomfortable or inconvenient at times. It’s an important function of the body that helps maintain our health.
But did you know that substance use can lead to sweating?
There are many side effects of substance use that are lesser-known or rarely discussed. Because of this, substance use disorders can be overlooked at times. Our team here at Serenity Lane is well-versed in the many side effects that come with cocaine use and more. As one of the oldest non-profit rehabs in the state, our years in the field have shown how often these unknown side effects can impact individuals and families alike. That’s why today we’re going to talk about cocaine sweats: what they are, why they happen, and what you should do if they happen to you.
When it comes to any form of substance use, there will always be side effects. These can vary from the effects felt while the substance is present in your body, to long-term effects that develop with a longer history of substance use. Some side effects are more well-known than others, even amongst those who may not engage in substance use themselves.
If you think about the side effects of cocaine use, you might immediately think of someone who has heightened energy levels. Obviously, it does more than just that, but have you heard of cocaine sweats before?
As the name implies, cocaine sweats are when someone experiences excessive sweating due to their cocaine use. This is most commonly a short-term side effect, meaning it occurs while someone has the substance in their system. How does this happen? How can something cause you to sweat more?
Cocaine is not the only substance, including medications, that can cause sweating as a side effect. When someone sweats when their body doesn’t require it, especially in excess, this is known as hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis has two forms: primary and secondary. Primary hyperhidrosis occurs from genetics and usually appears early in life, with symptoms continuing to occur throughout your life. Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is caused by other conditions such as substance use.
The substances that can lead to hyperhidrosis are ones that primarily interact with the central nervous system. This includes cocaine. While in the body, it interrupts and alters the messaging systems. This can lead to an increased body temperature, which leads to sweating, or it can trigger the sweating response, leading to excess sweating as a result.
Obviously, sweating is a natural response to help regulate temperature within the body. How, then, can you tell when sweating is a sign of cocaine use instead of just a natural reaction?
The main thing to look at when trying to determine the source of sweating is the context clues. Are those around you also sweating? How often do you or your loved one usually sweat? Have they had a change in routine that could correlate with increased sweating?
Let’s take a closer look at the other signs that come with cocaine use, so you can better pinpoint the source of the sweating.
There are both long-term and short-term side effects that can occur alongside cocaine sweats. These can be physical and behavioral side effects. If the sweating is caused by cocaine, you can keep an eye out for these to know more certainly.
Other context clues you can use can even stem from how your loved one is speaking. Listening for things like street names for cocaine in their conversations can also be a sign of cocaine use.
Whether or not excess sweating is good or not depends on the source. Those with primary hyperhidrosis aren’t innately at risk of any negative physical side effects due to their excessive sweating. Some, however, have negative mental health and societal side effects due to their sweating. It can lead to increased self-consciousness and self-isolation.
If hyperhidrosis is due to a side effect of a medication or other medical condition, it’s important to find the source. It could be something simple like menopause, or something more serious like a substance use disorder or spinal cord injury.
While hyperhidrosis is not usually a sign of a serious condition that needs immediate care, it is a condition that can be treated. If your sweating is bothering you, talk with your doctor about it. There are medications, diet changes, and other treatments that can help manage your symptoms and lessen your sweating.
In the case of cocaine use, there can be a time when cocaine sweats are a precursor to an overdose. Being able to spot the signs of a cocaine overdose is important so you know how to react properly. The most common signs of a cocaine overdose include:
If you think someone is experiencing a cocaine overdose, don’t be afraid to call for medical help. The Good Samaritan Law prevents you from getting into legal trouble for receiving medical assistance for a drug overdose. Be open and honest with any medical staff who assist with treatment so they can ensure the safety of all involved. It’s never worth lying or hesitating when someone’s life is at risk.
Whether you’ve experienced cocaine sweats, or you're concerned about a loved one’s cocaine use, recovery is always an option. Finding treatment for cocaine addiction doesn’t have to be daunting. There are many great options available for you right here in Oregon.
During treatment, you will learn many new skills and build new tools to support your long-term recovery. As you go through recovery, the side effects that originally stemmed from your cocaine use will lessen and be addressed by your medical team. You can find healing, no matter your history of substance use.
There’s no wrong time to get started. Regardless of your side effects or concerns, healing is here and ready whenever you are. Our team at Serenity Lane is dedicated to your long-term success in recovery. With our full continuum of care available, you’ll be sure to have the support you need every step of the way. Why wait? Give us a call today at 800-543-9905 to get started.
Find serenity in long-term recovery.
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