When to Visit the Doctor
Bloating might not be a significant condition on its own, but it might manifest along with other signs of a more serious problem. Use of cocaine can increase your risk of myocarditis and other cardiovascular conditions, including inflammation of the heart wall.
Some symptoms to watch out for include:
- Frequently feeling tired
- Pain in the joints
- Fever
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- Shortness of breath
Use of cocaine can also exacerbate respiratory problems, especially when it is smoked as crack or injected. Two of the most common and severe side effects are pulmonary edema [4] and pulmonary hemorrhage [5] (lung bleeding).
The following signs are worth watching out for because they can point to a serious problem:
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing and wheezing
If you encounter any of these symptoms, consult a medical expert.
Be as honest as you can about your drug use throughout the appointment. If you’re worried about legal repercussions, realize that doctors are prohibited from disclosing this information to law authorities under doctor-patient confidentiality regulations.