Substance abuse disorder is quite complex in nature and a multifaceted condition that can have severe consequences on the physical and mental health of an individual. The impact of substance abuse extends beyond the person who is using drugs or alcohol; it also affects their loved ones and society as a whole. Through this article let’s understand how substance abuse disorder directly hinders the kidney and brain, and why it is crucial to seek professional help to overcome this condition.
The Kidney and Substance Abuse Disorder
The kidneys are vital organs that play a crucial role in filtering out waste products from the body and regulating fluid and electrolyte balance. However, the use of drugs and alcohol can out-turn the proper functioning of the kidneys. Substance abuse disorder can cause many kidney-related problems, including kidney failure, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.
Kidney failure is a severe complication that can come about from substance abuse disorder. Long-term drug and alcohol use can damage the kidneys’ blood vessels, leading to impaired blood flow and decreased kidney function. This can result in chronic kidney disease, where the kidneys with time lose their ability to filter waste products from the blood.
Dehydration is another common complication of substance-related disorders that can have detrimental effects on the kidneys. When a person is dehydrated, the kidneys have to exert more effort to remove waste products from the blood. This can cause the kidneys to become stressed and overworked, leading to kidney damage.
Electrolyte imbalances can also subsequently occur due to substance abuse disorder. Electrolytes are minerals that help regulate various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood pressure, and pH balance in the body. Drug and alcohol abuse can alter the body’s electrolyte balance, which can have negative consequences on the kidneys’ health.
The Brain and Substance Abuse Disorder
The brain is the most complex organ in the body and is in charge of controlling all bodily functions, including movement, sensation, thought, and emotion. The healthy functioning of the brain, however, can be directly hampered by drug addiction disorder, which can result in a variety of physical and mental health issues.
One of the most significant hazards associated with prolonged drug abuse is the effects on the brain. The use of drugs and alcohol is a straight route to damaged brain cells, leading to cognitive impairment and memory loss. Long-term drug and alcohol use can also lead to structural changes in the brain, including a decrease in the size of certain regions of the brain, such as the hippocampus. These changes can hinder problem-solving abilities, learning, memory, and decision-making.
Depression, anxiety, and psychosis are just a few of the mental health issues that substance-related disorders can cause. Substance abuse triggers these mental health conditions and severely affects a person’s overall well-being. Depression and anxiety can lead to feelings of hopelessness and isolation, while psychosis can cause hallucinations and delusions which are a few of the substance-abuse disorder symptoms.
Seeking Professional Help
Substance abuse disorder is a chronic and complicated condition that requires professional help to overcome. Some people may attempt to quit on their own, this can not only be dangerous but also ineffective. Withdrawal symptoms can get severe and potentially life-threatening without medical supervision.
There is a range of substance abuse disorder treatment options, including medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and behavioral therapies. These treatments can help individuals manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and develop strategies to avoid relapse.
Substance Abuse Disorder Symptoms
- Strong substance cravings
- Building tolerance of the drug
- Visible withdrawal signs when stopped
- Inability to control
- Prefering to continue using the substance despite the negative consequences
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Spending most of the time using substances
- Loss of interest in other activities
- Having substances in risky situations like driving
- Dependence on the substance
Find Hope And Recovery
If you or someone dear to you are struggling with substance abuse, it is essential to seek help as soon as possible. Substance abuse can have severe consequences on your physical and mental health, as well as your relationships and daily life. We’ll help you get a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to substance abuse recovery.
Our team of certified experts will provide you with the support, tools, and resources necessary to achieve long-term recovery.
We understand that seeking help can be challenging, but we assure you that our platform is a safe and confidential space to receive the help you need. Don’t wait any longer, call +1 (917) 267 8635 and be guided to a blissful life.
