In such a time as this, where global attention is on the coronavirus, it’s appropriate to increase awareness of a similar issue such as addiction.
When a person abuses illicit drugs or alcohol, health is compromised.
People who fall ill with viruses such as colds, flues, or similar illnesses have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to any virus.
When a person misuses hard chemical drugs or alcohol it will inevitably cause organ problems. As stated in most scientific papers, practically every part of the body is affected by these substances. If the means of administration is smoking, then the lungs, throat, and mouth are the first to be affected. If taken intranasal, known as “sniffing”, one will see a degradation of the cartilage separating nostrils, called the nasal septum. It can lead to the complete disappearance of the septum.
Studies show that drugs and alcohol affect the body and lower the effectiveness of the immune system. For instance, opioids are known to be associated with the suppression of the body’s defenses. Excessive drinking reduces the function of three important kinds of cells in your immune system. Including health effects such as susceptibility to pneumonia.
In recent decades, it expanded to a greater likelihood of acute respiratory distress syndromes (ARDS), sepsis. Also, one can find alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD), certain cancers; a higher incidence of postoperative complications. Not to mention slower and less complete recovery from infection and physical trauma, including poor wound healing.
We could go through the whole gamut of drugs and how they affect the immune system but it’s safe to say; they simply do. Recently in various medical communiqué, health professionals are stating the effects of Covid-19 and people with weakened physical conditions. Those with a lower natural defense are more likely to fall victim to this new coronavirus. Age is not so much the criteria as it was a short time ago. People with existing medical conditions may be more susceptible. But what about the person struggling with an addiction to opioids, or other illicit drugs; you can be certain that their immune system has been compromised.
One might think that the Covid-19 pandemic will not reach your loved one suffering from his own battle. It is certain that he or she is more at risk due to continuous dealings with black market drugs. Most addicts do not take proper precautions to avoid contamination. Our advice is to find a way to get them to seek professional help from a treatment program in Canada.
A hygienic treatment center will eliminate the danger of addiction and the coronavirus for your loved one. This is the best time for them to seek help, have a chance at recovery, and a healthy lifestyle. If you have a relative that fits this category, please take a moment and call, Addiction Referral & Consultation Services. Our referral counselors will work with you and guide you to a suitable private drug rehab servicing your area.
Our experienced addiction specialists, in the field since 1998, aim to provide cost-effective solutions for families.
ARC Services – 447 Sauriol, Qc, Qc, G1E 3M4