Taking action quickly is critical for parents who find their son or daughter abusing cocaine.

If you have suspicions or find your son or daughter abusing cocaine, time is of the essence and your swift response is critical. When a parent suspects a child abusing cocaine, it is often difficult to react rationally from the onset, as it is a shocking blow. However, knowing how to handle a drug addict child is crucial in getting him or her the best help.

No parent wants to witness a child struggle with addiction. No parent wants a drug addict son or a drug addict daughter to fall through the cracks without getting the help they need to stop abusing drugs and live a happy and healthy, productive life.

If you find your son or daughter abusing cocaine, here are some physical signs you will observe, according to National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence:

* Eyes that are bloodshot or pupils that are smaller or larger than normal.

* Frequent nosebleeds could be related to cocaine or meth abuse.

* Changes in appetite or sleep patterns, including drastic fluctuations in weight.

* Seizures without a history of epilepsy.

* Lack of effort in personal grooming, no longer caring about his or her appearance.

* Signs of impairment are also symptoms of a child abusing cocaine or another substance. This would include tremors, lack of coordination, or incoherent or slurred speech.

Behavioral signs that are indicative of your son or daughter abusing cocaine include:

* Not attending class, grades that are in decline, or getting into trouble at school.

* Lack of motivation or poor performance at work, or a lack of interest in extracurricular activities, hobbies, or sports.

* Complaints from supervisors or teachers about your child's performance at work or school.

* Missing valuables, money, or prescription drugs.

* The demand for more privacy, locking doors and avoiding eye contact are also indicative of your child abusing cocaine or another substance.

* Unexplainable and confusing changes in his or her personality or attitude.

* Periods of unusual hyperactivity or irritability.

* Appears fearful, withdrawn, anxious, or paranoid without any apparent reason.

How to handle a drug addict child? Act quickly to help a drug addict son or a drug addict daughter end drug abuse early.

There is effective and swift action you can take if you find your son or daughter abusing cocaine or other dangerous drugs. There are many rehabilitation options available for your drug addict son or your drug addict daughter that include residential programs to outpatient services that will allow your child to come home, work, and attend school regularly. Often, a combination of therapies is the best way to help a drug addict son or a drug addict daughter effectively. Making sure you choose the right program that provides the necessary help is key.

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant and it is highly addictive, so acting fast to stop the abuse is essential to protect your child from possible heart attack, stroke, seizure and other side effects that can potentially be fatal. If you want to learn how to handle a drug addict child, seek advice from your family physician or an addiction specialist who can guide you in the right direction for getting immediate help.