Substance use can have a variety of negative impacts on the human body. Whether one is abusing drugs or alcohol, both can lead to serious health problems. Substance abuse can also cause damage to mental health, relationships, and a person’s ability to function properly in daily life. Some people may also experience hypnic jerks, which are involuntary muscle spasms that occur during sleep. Let’s explore how substance use impacts the body and the importance of addiction treatment.
How Does Substance Use Impact the Body?
Substance use can have a wide range of effects on the body, depending on the type and amount of substance being used. Some common physical impacts of substance use include:
- Damage to major organs such as the brain, heart, liver, and lungs
- Increased risk of developing chronic illnesses like cancer, heart disease, or liver disease
- Weakened immune system, making the body more susceptible to illnesses and infections
- Disrupted sleep patterns and difficulty achieving restorative sleep
- Impaired motor skills and coordination
- Changes in appetite and weight loss or gain
The signs and symptoms linked with substance abuse should not be tolerated or ignored, as they often represent serious and potentially life-threatening health conditions.
What Are Hypnic Jerks?
Many people who use substances experience hypnic jerks, which are involuntary muscle spasms that occur during sleep. These are often caused by withdrawal from the substance. For example, people who quit alcohol after drinking for a long time may experience hypnic jerks as a withdrawal symptom.
In addition to hypnic jerks, people who use substances may experience other sleep disorders, such as insomnia and sleep apnea. These can have a negative impact on a person’s mental and physical health.
Delaying Treatment Only Compounds the Problem
People who abuse substances often delay seeking treatment. Unfortunately, delaying the treatment only compounds the problem. Substance abuse can lead to long-term health problems, including liver disease, kidney failure, and even death.
The longer a person continues to abuse substances, the more damage they are likely to do to their body and mind. Seeking addiction treatment sooner rather than later can help reduce the risk of serious health problems.
Benefits of Drug Addiction Treatment
Improved Physical Health
Addiction treatment can help improve physical health by reducing the risk of long-term health problems.
Mental Health Support
Addiction treatment can also provide support for mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.
Stronger Relationships
Addiction treatment can help rebuild damaged relationships with family members, friends, and partners.
Increased Odds of Long-Term Recovery
Addiction treatment can improve the odds of achieving long-term recovery and leading a healthy, fulfilling life.
Get Help From an Addiction Treatment Center
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, it’s important to seek help from an addiction treatment center. Addiction treatment centers offer a variety of resources, including counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups. By getting help from an addiction treatment center, you can start on the path to recovery and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
Addiction treatment can provide a variety of benefits, including improved physical health, mental health support, stronger relationships, and increased odds of long-term recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, seek help from an addiction treatment center today.