Cocaine makes the heart beat faster, which may cause it to lose its natural rhythm. Cocaine can also cause blood vessels near the heart to become narrow or close down. This is dangerous and can lead to a heart attack. If you have any chest pains while using cocaine, see a doctor immediately.
The sudden increase in blood pressure caused by cocaine can also lead to blood vessels becoming weaker. This can result in a stroke.
Cocaine makes your body temperature rise, which can lead to overheating and the risk of a seizure or fit. If you've ever had a fit while on cocaine, there's a good chance it will happen again. If anything like this happens to you, stop using cocaine immediately. The risk of overheating increases if you mix cocaine with other stimulant-type drugs such as ecstasy and amphetamine (speed) or if you use cocaine in hot environments.
What to do in the event of an emergency or overdose
It is easy to use too much cocaine and have an overdose, particularly if you have injected. Cocaine increases the heart rate but closes down the blood vessels. This results in heat building up inside the body, which cannot escape.
The first signs of an overdose can include:
- A sudden rise in body temperature
- A flushed face
- Hot skin but no sweating or
- Muscle cramps and stiffness in the arms and legs
Cool the person down by loosening their clothing and putting cold, wet towels on their head and neck. If there is any ice nearby, rub it around their neck too. Do not give them anything to eat or drink, except sips of cold water.
If someone collapses or cannot be easily woken, they may have overdosed. Nothing you do will bring them round.
- Do not panic.
- Lie them on the floor.
- Put them onto their side and tilt their head backwards (the recovery position).
- Call an ambulance: dial 999.
- Do not leave them alone unless you have to get help yourself; if you do have to leave them, make sure they cannot roll over onto their back.
- If you can, tell the emergency services what they have taken; this could save their life.
Act fast, save a life.