The COVID-19 virus (Coronavirus) has gone from a Chinese epidemic to a global one. Confirmed cases are in each of the United States with numbers that are flying upward. Many states are trying to take a proactive approach to quarantine the virus and do things ranging from closing non-essential businesses where people typically congregate, such as stores and restaurants, to pushing social isolation. Many people are turning to drugs and alcohol to cope with anxiety, stress, and boredom. Your addiction and your physical health are not at their best to be tested right now. Help for recovery is available even during these tough times through addiction treatment programs at The District.

Introduction to COVID-19

COVID-19 is a mutated strain of the flu. Symptoms usually present themselves around 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Prominent symptoms of this particular flu include coughing, fever, and shortness of breath. To someone with a compromised immune system, like those struggling with substance use disorder, there is a high risk of the symptoms being stronger, or more severe, with death being the result in extreme cases.

COVID-19 is an airborne virus that is very contagious. Addiction and your physical health may compromise the integrity of your immune system. During this time, it may be beneficial to get addiction help and isolate yourself at the same time with virtual Outpatient Treatment Programs and men’s and women’s sober living homes.

Addiction and Your Physical Health

Picking up old or new addictive habits can continue to negatively impact your physical health and lead to a higher health risk. Addiction is a chronic disease that takes a toll on your physical health and requires ongoing treatment.

If you’re tempted or triggered to drink, before thinking “alcohol kills germs” keep in mind that pure alcohol coming into direct contact may kill a germ. However, alcohol diluted in the bloodstream and filtered through the kidneys and liver, are not so lethal to the germ. Frequent or heavy drinking actually reduces lymphocytes (cells that recognize antigens, produce antibodies, and destroy foreign cells) and increases the chance of bacterial and viral infections.

Your addiction and your physical health are at odds with each other when abusing substances. Cocaine and methamphetamines lead to severe dehydration and skin irritation. It is common to form sores around the nose – which can be unpleasant during a time of airborne illness. It also affects the thymus gland which has a negative impact on T-cells.

Cigarettes are very damaging to the lungs, and not great on the throat or esophagus, either. They also create a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, reducing the cells that fight infection. In these cases, not only does the drug weaken the immune system, but they cause damage to the parts of the body used to breathe, making these damaged throats and lungs a great entry point for COVID-19. Now more than ever, it is crucial to cut down and quit smoking and improve your physical health.

If you are experiencing the negative effects of addiction, a medication-assisted treatment program can get your physical health where it needs to be.

Sober Living Homes Helping Issues of Addiction and Your Physical Health

When addiction and your physical health are at odds, a sober living home can help protect you from relapse triggers. Being proactive in a men’s and women’s sober living home keeps you active, healthy, and connected in your recovery.

These comfortable homes with expansive floor plans and oceanfront views can put your mind at ease during COVID-19. Sober living homes are distraction-free and let you focus on the continued process of addiction recovery and healing.

What to Do During the Coronavirus Pandemic

In a time like this, fighting addiction and improving your physical health is the priority. As COVID-19 is a strain of the flu, the same preventative measures apply, including:

• Avoid known sick people
• Practice good hygiene
• Do not consume drugs or alcohol

If this pandemic is making you rethink your use of drugs or alcohol, be sure to contact The District by calling 844.287.8506 today. Our trained staff can help you on the path to sobriety and better health.