Different issues during recovery
Infections of the heart caused by drug use often catch people by surprise, mainly because they’re not as widely discussed as other drug-related health risks. Yet for individuals who use injectable drugs—or who care for someone who does—these infections are a very real and serious concern. Conditions like infective endocarditis, where bacteria enter the bloodstream … Read more
Skin lesions can pop up for a bunch of reasons, and using certain drugs is one that often surprises people. I’ve spoken with folks who found rashes, sores, or weird bumps after starting a new prescription or after experimenting with recreational drugs. It can be anything from a harmless blotch to something you really want … Read more
The kidneys do much more than most people realize—they filter waste, balance fluids, regulate blood pressure, and support many essential body functions. Because they work constantly, they’re especially vulnerable to damage from both legal and illegal drugs. Yet this connection is often overlooked, even by those familiar with other health risks of substance use. Drug-related … Read more
Drug use can affect many parts of the body, but the impact on the respiratory system is one of the most concerning. Whether it’s tobacco, prescription drugs, or illegal substances, many types of medicines can cause breathing problems that range from mild irritation to life-threatening complications. I’m going to break down how different drugs affect … Read more
If you’re like most people, there’s probably something in your daily routine that gives you a little boost of energy or helps you focus. While these stimulants can be handy if you need a quick wake-up call or to get through a tough day at work, some actually have a track record of causing dependency. … Read more
Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can have pretty profound effects on both your body and mind. This drug, which is most often found as a white powder, can be snorted, smoked, or injected. It gives a rapid, intense high but brings some significant health risks, mainly if used regularly or in large amounts. Understanding … Read more
Seizures caused by drug use can be alarming, unpredictable, and incredibly confusing for anyone who experiences or witnesses them. When they happen, people often wonder what’s going on in the brain, why certain substances can provoke such a severe reaction, and which drugs carry the highest risk. Understanding this connection is important because seizures aren’t … Read more
Many people know that smoking, drinking alcohol, and using certain drugs can be hard on the body, but the long-term risks go much deeper than most realize. These substances don’t just cause short-term symptoms—they can create cellular damage that greatly increases the risk for several types of cancer. Over years of use, chemicals in tobacco, … Read more
HIV transmission can seem like a distant issue if it hasn’t touched you or your community directly. Still, the way it spreads from drug use to the broader population is a public health topic that actually affects many people. The process isn’t always as straightforward as people think. Understanding the steps involved can help with … Read more
Hepatitis is a group of diseases that mess with the liver, and drug use is sadly one of the fastest ways these viruses can spread. If you’re curious about how hepatitis actually gets passed on among people who use drugs, you’re not alone. Many folks assume it’s only about sharing needles, but there are actually … Read more