Respiratory depression is a serious health issue, particularly linked to substance use and overdose, characterised by reduced or halted breathing. It’s particularly concerning with opioid use, as these drugs suppress the central nervous system and breathing. The connection between opioid use and respiratory depression is well-established with opioids impacting the brain’s respiratory centers, leading to dangerously slow or stopped breathing.
Symptoms like shallow breathing, drowsiness or unresponsiveness are key indicators. It’s a leading cause of death in overdoses due to suppressed breathing. Awareness of the risks of opioids and depressants, correct use of prescribed opioids, recognising signs of respiratory depression and understanding responses to opioid overdose, such as using naloxone, are essential for safety and can be life-saving. This knowledge is key not only for users but also for their loved ones and the community to help reduce fatal overdoses.
How Different Drugs May Affect The Respiratory System
Substance misuse can have significant impacts on the respiratory system, affected by factors such as the substance itself and the method of use, including smoking, snorting, injecting and oral consumption. Common respiratory issues associated with substance misuse include pulmonary infections like pneumonia and tuberculosis, bronchospasm, asthma exacerbation and conditions such as crack lung, which may lead to respiratory failure. Other effects include the production of black phlegm, wheezing, shortness of breath, pulmonary edema, coughing up blood, pulmonary granulomatosis, irregular breathing patterns, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and respiratory depression or arrest, particularly in cases of overdose.
Cocaine’s Effects On Lungs
Cocaine use, especially through smoking, damages the lungs by causing conditions like pulmonary edema, ruptures in lung air sacs and hemorrhages. It worsens respiratory illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis. Snorting cocaine also harms the lungs, leading to nasal infections and tissue damage.
Methamphetamine’s Effects On Lungs
Meth use primarily through smoking harms the lungs by causing bleeding in the alveoli, leading to coughing up blood and destroying pulmonary blood vessels. This results in conditions like pneumonia, alveoli damage, pulmonary hypertension and acute respiratory failure. Snorting meth similarly leads to severe respiratory damage.
Opioid’s Effects On Lungs
Opioids suppress the respiratory system, reducing the urge to breathe and potentially causing fatal respiratory depression. They weaken the immune system making users more susceptible to lung infections and worsening existing conditions like emphysema and bronchitis.
Inhalant’s Effects On Lungs
Inhaling substances like aerosols and solvents can cause lung infections, increase the risk of developing respiratory diseases like tuberculosis, asthma and bronchitis and directly damage lung tissues.
Alcohol’s Effects On Lungs
Chronic alcohol abuse weakens the immune system and damages lung cells, leading to a condition known as alcoholic lungs. This damage increases the risk of lung infections and cancers. Alcohol vapors also harm the nasal passages and sinuses.
Polysubstance use or the simultaneous use of multiple drugs, heightens the risk of severe respiratory complications. The combination of drugs can produce unpredictable and intensified effects, including various breathing difficulties and increased overdose risk, which may result in life-threatening respiratory depression and arrest. This overview points to the diverse and serious respiratory health risks associated with substance misuse and the dangers of mixing substances.
Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and Thailand, WeDoRecover supports individuals globally, including those from the United Arab Emirates and Europe. Accepting both South African medical aid and international health insurance our organisation facilitates access to high-quality treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders, offering individualised care that addresses the physical, mental and social needs of patients.
Our team, led by Gareth Carter, offers empathetic and professional support, guiding you through every step of the treatment process. Whether you're in South Africa or abroad, our acceptance of various insurance plans makes quality care accessible, providing a platform for lasting recovery and a healthier future.
Inpatient Rehab
Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
Outpatient
If you're committed to your sobriety but cannot take a break from your daily duties for an inpatient program. Outpatient rehab treatment might suit you well if you are looking for a less restricted format for addiction treatment or simply need help with mental health.
Therapy
Therapy can be good step towards healing and self-discovery. If you need support without disrupting your routine, therapy offers a flexible solution for anyone wishing to enhance their mental well-being or work through personal issues in a supportive, confidential environment.
Mental Health
Are you having persistent feelings of being swamped, sad or have sudden surges of anger or intense emotional outbursts? These are warning signs of unresolved trauma mental health. A simple assesment by a mental health expert could provide valuable insights into your recovery.
Finding the right rehab close to you is simple with WeDoRecover. Our network includes the finest rehab centers, ensuring personalised, quality care for your recovery needs. Let Gareth Carter and our empathetic team help guide you to a center that feels right for you, offering expert care and support. Start your healing today by choosing a rehab that's not just close to you, but also that truly cares about your loved ones recovery.