Substance use disorders (SUDs) don’t just affect the brain—they take a toll on the body too, especially the heart. The connection between long-term substance use and cardiovascular health is often overlooked, but understanding this relationship is critical. At Hanley Center, we believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. That’s why education about the physical effects of addiction is a key part of our integrated treatment approach.
The Link Between Substance Use and Cardiovascular Health
Drugs and alcohol can severely strain your cardiovascular system. Some substances elevate blood pressure, others cause abnormal heart rhythms, and many increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Over time, chronic substance use can lead to permanent heart damage and life-threatening complications.
Common effects of substance use on heart health include:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
- Increased risk of blood clots and stroke
- Enlarged heart (cardiomyopathy)
- Heart attacks (myocardial infarction)
- Sudden cardiac arrest
These risks increase with the frequency, amount, and type of substances used—especially when multiple substances (polysubstance use) are involved.
Substances Most Harmful to the Heart
- Alcohol – Long-term alcohol use can cause high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and alcoholic cardiomyopathy. Even moderate drinking may pose risks for individuals with a history of heart disease or other comorbidities.
- Cocaine and Stimulants – Cocaine, methamphetamine, and other stimulants cause vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), which dramatically increases blood pressure and the risk of heart attack or stroke—even after a single use.
- Opioids – Opioid misuse can slow heart rate and decrease oxygen levels in the blood, leading to hypoxia and heart failure. Injection drug use also raises the risk of bacterial endocarditis (a dangerous heart infection).
- Nicotine and Tobacco – Tobacco use is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease. It accelerates plaque buildup in arteries and increases the likelihood of heart attack and stroke.
Gender, Age, and Hidden Risks
At Hanley Center, we provide gender- and age-specific care because risk factors and symptoms often differ between populations. For example:
- Women may show subtler cardiovascular symptoms and are more likely to underreport them.
- Older adults may already be managing cardiac conditions, making substance use especially dangerous.
- First responders and veterans face higher stress loads, which compound the cardiovascular impact of substances.
Integrated Care for Heart and Mind
Hanley Center’s medical and clinical teams work collaboratively to identify and treat underlying physical health conditions, including cardiovascular issues. Every patient receives a full medical assessment upon admission, and those at risk for heart complications receive careful monitoring throughout treatment.
Our detox program includes cardiac-safe protocols, and our residential programs ensure patients with pre-existing heart conditions receive ongoing medical support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does drug use affect your heart?
Yes. Many substances, including stimulants, alcohol, opioids, and tobacco, can severely affect heart function, increasing the risk of hypertension, heart attack, and stroke.
Can your heart recover from substance use?
With early treatment and abstinence, some heart-related damage may be reversible. Hanley Center provides integrated care that supports both mental and physical recovery.
What makes Hanley Center’s treatment approach unique?
We offer age- and gender-specific programming with comprehensive medical care, including support for cardiovascular and co-occurring health conditions.
Is it safe to detox if I have heart problems?
Yes, at Hanley Center, medically supervised detox ensures patients with heart issues are carefully monitored and supported throughout withdrawal and early recovery.
Call 561-841-1033 today to speak with an admissions specialist.
