Signs and Symptoms of Meth Abuse
Methamphetamine is one of the most dangerous drugs on the market, creating addiction in as little as one or two uses. The drug appearance ranges from white to brown crystalline powder. It can also be clear, chunky crystals shaped like small pieces of ice or shards of broken glass. Meth can also come in liquid form. Understanding the signs and symptoms of meth abuse could save a life.Due to its highly addictive nature and a myriad of detrimental health effects, meth is considered one of the worst drugs for an individual to ingest. Regardless of how a user takes meth, it can cause serious harm. No drug is entirely safe, but the effects of meth are particularly bad. Those dealing with meth addiction should seek immediate care and meth addiction treatment.Meth can be taken several ways. The drug is commonly swallowed, snorted, injected or even smoked. Common items used by someone addicted to meth are small pieces of crumpled aluminum foil, soda cans with a hole in the side, and empty shafts of inexpensive ballpoint pens used to snort the drug. A user can binge for hours until the drugs are gone and crash afterward. These long hours of heavy use can create insatiable cravings during this period of time, and a meth user will seek more drugs to satisfy the addiction. It is a vicious cycle for someone addicted. Here are some signs and symptoms of meth abuse to watch for if you suspect someone may be abusing meth.
Signs of Meth Abuse
- Loss of appetite
- Significant weight loss
- Seems nervous or anxious
- Violent or overly aggressive behavior
- Confusion
- Insomnia
- Risky sexual behavior and lifestyle choices
Symptoms of Meth Abuse
- Increased attention, decreased fatigue
- Increased periods of wakefulness
- Talkativeness or overly talkative
- Euphoric, experiencing a “rush”
- Increased respiration
- Rapid/irregular heartbeat
- Hyperthermia (body temperature above normal)
There are physical changes which are unique to users addicted to meth. Some of these include sores on the face and body from picking, signs of neglect to the users home, kids, or loved ones and lack of desire to clean or take care of themselves. A common marker of meth abuse is “meth mouth,” or rotten and brown teeth which develop from lack of saliva following use. All of these are common symptoms of meth abuse to look out for, and all indicate the user could require substance abuse treatment.While not an exact sign or symptom of meth abuse, it is important to realize someone addicted to meth will do whatever they can to get the drug, at any cost. This can lead to criminal behavior to secure money, supplies or the drug itself. If any kids are involved, they are likely to suffer from neglect and possible abuse.If you suspect someone you love is abusing meth, there is help available. Remember the symptoms of meth abuse. Addicts will commonly reject help, but for the safety of themselves and those in their care it is important to know the signs and symptoms of meth abuse and get support to help your loved one. Methamphetamines are one of the most deadly and addictive drugs that exist. It has extremely negative health effects which can ruin the health of even those who recover. Don’t allow such a crippling addiction to control you. Know the signs and symptoms of meth abuse and if you or someone you know need help, seek out addiction treatment today.Contact our addiction professionals at The Last Resort by calling 512-750-6750 to see what options exist for treating your dependency on methamphetamine.