Drug and alcohol abuse has a devastating effect on everyone with a substance use disorder. However, certain conditions are unique to men or women. At Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach, CA, our men’s rehab program addresses gender-specific issues in a safe environment. Learn the lasting impacts on men’s health and what to expect from an addiction recovery program.

Men’s Health Risks Also Faced by Women

Let’s start with a look at conditions that impact both genders due to substance use disorder, which include the following:

Cardiovascular disease
Stroke
Lung disease
Mental disorders
HIV/AIDS
Cancer
Hepatitis B and C

Long-term abuse of alcohol can lead to complications from these conditions. Abusing drugs like heroin or stimulants like meth or cocaine can directly cause these health issues.

Does Drug Addiction Affect Men’s Health and Reproduction?

Men face a higher risk of spreading and contracting sexually transmitted diseases or STDs, developing fertility issues, and experiencing sexual dysfunction during illicit drug and alcohol use. Here are some of the specific conditions that threaten the well-being of men in recovery:

STDs: Drug and alcohol use disorders can lead to behavior changes that increase your risk of catching an STD. Additionally, alcohol inhibits the immune system and makes it harder for your body to fight off diseases. Men using intravenous drugs may share needles and engage in other behavior that puts them at a high risk of getting hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, and other bloodborne diseases. Unfortunately, the available treatment for some of these conditions can negatively impact fertility.
Fertility: Certain drugs such as cocaine and marijuana cause hormonal changes that can detrimentally affect sperm activity. Steroids can also decrease male fertility. Although every drug impacts the body in unique ways, some drugs can harm sperm count. Fortunately, your body may return to normal within a few months, depending on the severity of your addiction and the types of drugs you use.
Sexual dysfunction: Drug and alcohol addictions typically dampen sexual arousal. When you first begin drinking, lowered inhibitions may make you more promiscuous. However, alcohol eventually suppresses the central nervous system, where it slows your body and brain’s reaction. This can cause erectile dysfunction and difficulty maintaining an erection, among other men’s health challenges. Similarly, using meth and cocaine can lead to delayed orgasms and erectile dysfunction.

You don’t have to go through detox on your own. At Oceanfront Recovery, licensed medical staff and therapists help you safely remove drugs and alcohol from your system. Let us help you prepare for drug and alcohol treatment and give you the best chance at long-term recovery.

Alcohol Addiction and Impact on Men’s Health

Alcohol addiction has serious health consequences for men. Besides sexual dysfunction, liver damage is one of the main long-term consequences of extended alcohol abuse. You can also end up with pancreas inflammation, which is extremely dangerous because it can turn into type 2 diabetes. Additionally, men often develop bone tissue problems, such as early-onset osteoporosis or osteopenia (reduced bone density).

Through supervised withdrawal, we can help reduce the long-term health impacts of substance use disorders. Our men’s rehab program uses holistic end evidence-based treatment to help you cope with cravings and triggers.

Programs at Oceanfront Recovery Address Men’s Health and Wellness

Receive the treatment you need in substance-specific alcohol abuse and drug abuse treatment programs such as the following:

At Oceanfront Recovery, we provide gender-specific substance abuse treatment for men and women. This provides a safe space for men to share their group therapy experiences without the distraction or disruption of mixed-gender settings. Our focus on men’s health includes mental, physical, and emotional aspects related to drug abuse. Contact us at 877.296.7477 to determine how to enroll in our detox and drug treatment programs today.