Alternate Names : Intoxication – cocaine
Definition
Cocaine is a powerful central nervous system stimulant with potent cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) side effects. Signs of intoxication typically begin with enlarged pupils, a feeling of being “high” (euphoria), agitation, and increased heart rate and blood pressure.
With higher doses, sweating, tremors, confusion, hyperactivity, seizures, stroke, cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heart beats), and sudden death can occur.
See also:
- Cocaine
- Drug abuse
- Drug abuse and dependence
- Drug abuse first aid
- Stroke secondary to cocaine
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Bleeding into the lungs, fluid in the lungs, and damage to lung tissue have become more common as a result of crack cocaine smoking.
Those who are thought to have swallowed poorly packaged cocaine following police pursuit are called “body stuffers.” Because of the large quantities of relatively pure drug contained in these packages, toxicity and death can occur if even a single bag ruptures.
Pictures & Images
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An electrocardiogram is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. This includes the rate and regularity of beats as well as the size and position of the chambers, any damage to the heart, and effects of drugs or devices to regulate the heart.
Review Date : 6/7/2008
Reviewed By : David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
