How Does Cocaine Permanently Change Your Brain Structure?

If you've ever wondered how cocaine impacts cognitive function, emotional regulation, and the relentless cycle of addiction, then you're in the right place. Witness how cocaine wreaks havoc on the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, and more, leading to devastating memory deficits, decision-making impairments, and risk of psychosis.Join us in exploring the grim reality of cocaine's influence on brain structure, including gray matter reduction and dopamine receptor loss, revealed through advanced neuroimaging studies. The revelations of how these changes manifest in everyday life— from blunted pleasure to heightened anxiety and stress sensitization— will leave you astounded.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction and Recap on Previous Episode00:00:35 Neuroanatomical Damage from Chronic Cocaine Use00:01:30 Cardiovascular Effects and Stroke Risks00:02:38 Neurochemical Imbalances and Neurotransmitter Dysregulation00:03:42 Psychological Impairments from Chronic Cocaine Use00:04:38 Emotional Dysregulation and Increased Impulsivity00:05:44 Structural Brain Changes in Chronic Cocaine Users00:06:38 Long Term Recovery Challenges00:07:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts