Signs & Symptoms of a Recovering Crack Cocaine Addict

Crack cocaine is a highly addictive illegal drug. Crack cocaine is cocaine that has been processed into "rocks" using baking soda or ammonia. Users smoke the drug. Even after stopping the drug, users experience withdrawal symptoms that are signs of prior crack cocaine use. Other characteristics such as financial and emotional problems can also signify prior crack cocaine use.

Financial Problems

• Crack cocaine is expensive and can cost a user hundreds of dollars a week, or more. So even after quitting, a crack cocaine user will most likely have financial issues. Some prior crack addicts enter homeless shelters or half-way houses. Sometimes these financial problems lead to criminal issues if the user stole to pay for his habit. The user might owe family and friends money after borrowing it for crack. Repaying debts and improving credit after crack use takes time.

Physical Withdrawal

• The withdrawal symptoms of crack cocaine or less severe than the withdrawal symptoms of other drugs, but do exist, especially in the early days after last use. A user might have to enter a detoxification program to let the drugs exist the body in safe environment with professionals on hand. Physical withdrawal symptoms can include shaking, muscle and joint pains and sleep disruptions. Also a craving for the drug is a common side effect because crack cocaine is so addictive.

Mental Withdrawal

• The mental withdrawal symptoms are more common than physical symptoms and generally last longer than the physical issues. Lack of motivation is one symptom of cocaine withdrawal. Other mental symptoms include anxiety and depression. You might also notice the abuser becoming agitated or extremely tired. Sometimes treatment like therapy or medication is needed for the anxiety and depression.

Concurrent Addictions

• Many times crack cocaine addicts start out using another drug and might continue using those drugs while abusing crack. Often, a user quits everything at once, but not always. The person might continue heavy drinking and abuse of drugs such as marijuana. It is important for crack users to stay away from alcohol because intoxication can lower defenses and make a person more willing to use cocaine again, leading to more regular use.