February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health and the steps we can take to prevent heart disease. At Kolmac, we specialize in treating substance use disorders, and we’ve seen firsthand how alcohol and drug use can have serious consequences for heart health.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and substance use significantly increases the risk. Whether it’s alcohol, cocaine, opioids, or stimulants, substance use can lead to high blood pressure, heart attacks, and even heart failure. Understanding these risks is crucial for anyone struggling with addiction and seeking recovery.
How Alcohol Affects the Heart
Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances, and while moderate consumption might not pose immediate risks, excessive drinking can lead to severe heart problems, including:
- High Blood Pressure: Heavy alcohol use can raise blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Increased Risk of Stroke: Studies show that excessive alcohol use is a significant risk factor for stroke, particularly in younger adults.
If you or a loved one struggles with alcohol use, seeking professional treatment is essential. Kolmac’s outpatient treatment programs provide comprehensive care to help individuals overcome alcohol dependence and improve overall health.
The Impact of Stimulants on the Heart (Cocaine, Methamphetamine)
Stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine are particularly dangerous for heart health. These drugs cause a rapid increase in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to severe cardiovascular risks, including:
- Heart Attacks: Cocaine can cause the arteries to spasm, leading to a sudden heart attack—even in young, healthy individuals.
- Cardiac Arrest: Stimulants increase the risk of sudden cardiac death by disrupting normal heart rhythms.
- Enlarged Heart (Cardiomegaly): Chronic use of stimulants can enlarge the heart, leading to long-term cardiovascular complications.
At Kolmac, we help individuals safely detox from stimulant addiction and provide medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and behavioral therapy to support long-term recovery.
How Opioid Use Impacts Heart Health
Opioids, have a more indirect but equally harmful impact on heart health.
Kolmac’s opioid treatment programs offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT), including buprenorphine and methadone, to help patients overcome addiction while protecting their overall health.
Steps to Protect Your Heart During Recovery
The good news is that substance-related heart damage can often be reversed or managed with early intervention. Here are some critical steps for individuals recovering from substance use disorders:
- Seek Professional Treatment – Enrolling in a structured addiction treatment program like Kolmac’s outpatient services can help you detox safely and adopt healthier habits.
- Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet – Reducing alcohol, processed foods, and high-sodium meals can help restore cardiovascular health.
- Stay Active – Exercise is essential in reducing blood pressure and strengthening the heart, even during recovery.
- Monitor Your Blood Pressure & Cholesterol – Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help track and improve heart health.
- Avoid Relapse Triggers – Managing stress and emotional triggers through therapy, peer support, and structured treatment can help prevent relapse and protect your heart.
Kolmac Can Help You Take the First Step Toward Recovery
At Kolmac, we understand that addiction affects every aspect of life—including heart health. Our evidence-based outpatient treatment programs provide the support, medical care, and therapy needed to help individuals overcome substance use while improving their physical well-being.
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, don’t wait to get help. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options and start your journey to a healthier future.
