Methamphetamine, or “meth” as it is commonly known, is one of the most dangerous drugs to become addicted to. Meth carries serious health risks, including the risk of fatal overdose. However, with proper treatment and support, recovery from a meth addiction is possible. To explore meth side effects and addiction, or discover a successful meth addiction treatment program, reach out to Evoke Wellness at Waltham at 866.276.1920.
How Common Is Meth Abuse?
Methamphetamine has been around for a very long time. Since it was first synthesized in 1893, people have found different ways to ingest methamphetamine to enjoy the drug’s pleasurable effect. In 1932, the substance was marketed as Benzedrine, an inhaler that was available without a prescription.
Since its invention, the stimulant has been available in many forms without a prescription until 1959, when it became a controlled substance. Today, meth is classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule II drug.
Prolonged methamphetamine use can rapidly result in addiction. There are reports of individuals becoming dependent after experimenting with the substance just once. The temporary sense of euphoria and heightened energy may bring short-term pleasure, but the results of long-term meth use are destructive to your mental and physical health.
Long-Term and Short-Term Meth Side Effects
Noticing adverse side effects doesn’t require heavy meth use or prolonged exposure. Some of the short-term meth side effects include:
- Raised blood pressure
- Aggressive or violent behavior
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Rapid breathing
- Increased body temperature
- Loss of appetite or nausea
- Disturbed sleep pattern
- Irritability
- Paranoia
Long-term meth side effects can harm your physical and mental health on many levels. Some of the effects include:
- Several dental problems (known as “meth mouth”)
- Damage to the liver, lungs, and kidneys
- High blood pressure, which can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or death
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Insomnia
- Intense itching, skin sores
- Permanent damage to the brain and heart
- Premature osteoporosis
- Hallucination and delusions
- Tremors
- Convulsions
- Violent behavior
Death by meth overdose, heart damage, or stroke is more common than you may realize. At Evoke Wellness at Waltham, our experienced and compassionate professionals are trained to help you navigate your meth addiction recovery journey. We can assist you in beginning the healing process by managing any physical health complications, addressing emotional imbalances, and supporting your mindset through this difficult period.
Warning Signs of Meth Abuse
Whether someone is misusing a prescribed version of methamphetamine or an illicit one, the warning signs of misuse are the same. If you’re concerned someone you know is abusing their medication or buying illegal drugs, look for these signs:
- Extreme weight loss
- Rapid eye movement
- Dilated pupils
- Rotting teeth or gum disease
- Foul body odor
- Sores on the skin caused by scratching
- Depression when not under the influence of meth
- Disorganized speech
- Worsened mental health concerns
- Repetitive behaviors
- Erratic thinking or behaving
- Sleep deprivation
- Neglect of personal hygiene
- Aggression
When a person stops taking meth, they experience what is known as the “crash phase.” This phase is marked by a loss of energy, anxiety, hallucinations, and loss of cognitive function. A person may experience the crash phase 24 to 72 hours after their last dose of meth. More intense symptoms appear until withdrawal is complete. The potentially severe symptoms are why supervised detox is recommended for meth withdrawal.
Call Evoke Wellness at Waltham to Get Help for Meth Addiction
Meth use disorder is a serious condition that requires serious help. Our meth treatment program addresses the physical and psychological dependence as well as any past traumas or other issues that may have led to drug use in the first place. Contact Evoke Wellness at Waltham at 866.276.1920 or contact us online to learn more about how treatment for meth abuse can improve your health and help you build the bright future you deserve.
