Methamphetamine, commonly referred to as meth, is a stimulant drug that can be smoked, snorted, injected, or ingested to feel its effects. This illegal substance is highly addictive, and using it often leads to serious negative health effects. Being aware of the effects that may occur from the use of meth can help individuals make an educated decision before moving forward with this substance.
These negative health effects include both short-term and long-term issues. Some may be temporary, but others may be permanent.
Short-Term Effects
It is common to experience short bursts of increased focus and energy when on the substance. Activity levels often increase when meth is in effect. During these increased energy phases, it is likely that you may experience an increased heart rate and increased respiration. The body shuts down its sensations of hunger, temporarily decreasing appetite. These effects can cause the body to act irregularly and fail to maintain homeostasis while under the influence of this substance.
Long-Term Effects
Long-term use of methamphetamine can lead to severe psychological and physical side effects. The chances of developing confusion, insomnia, violent behavior, anxiety, and other mood disorders are drastically increased with prolonged use of this substance. Many of these symptoms can occur when the substance is activated; however, with long-term use, these effects begin to occur in our natural brain responses, even when the substance is not present.
Not only does methamphetamine increase the risk of psychological disorders, but it also has a high potential for addiction. Once the cycle of addiction sets in, it can be extremely difficult to break, especially if it goes unnoticed. The positive effects that are felt from this substance, such as high energy and increased focus, can encourage users to continue using when they need to be attentive. This causes the body to rely on the substance to reach this state of focus, decreasing their attention span whenever they are not using.
It is common for users of meth to experience high levels of paranoia. This is commonly experienced with short-term use; however, these paranoid feelings can begin to arise without the presence of the substance in the body. As these feelings are reinforced, an individual’s mind may find itself returning to a state of paranoia and assuming that everything is out to get them. This state of mind can be extremely hurtful to the recovery process, as they may feel that their treatment team does not have their best interest in mind. The way this substance alters users’ perception of reality can cause a large hindrance in their ability to stay motivated through recovery.
Dental Hygiene
Along with the various mental health concerns, poor dental hygiene is an important physical concern for people who have used meth. The potential of developing dental or periodontal disease of some form is drastically increased with each use of meth. This substance often causes the teeth to yellow and decay at an accelerated rate. Many individuals who use meth for a prolonged period and do not get help to overcome their addiction find that their teeth are destroyed at an early age.
Smoking of any form can cause potential damage to your respiratory system, gums, mouth, and teeth. There seems to be a strong correlation between individuals who smoke a substance of any kind and the development of a heightened desire for sugar. When people consume high levels of sugar after using meth, their teeth are in greater need of care. Unfortunately, with the forgetfulness and confusion that arise from the use of meth, oral care is often forgotten, causing long-term damage to one’s teeth.
Other Concerns
In addition to the previously discussed health concerns, the use of meth can cause the following symptoms. Being aware of these side effects is extremely important, as many of these effects come with severe consequences.
- Skin Abrasions
- This is often due to excessive scratching or picking at skin, a common reaction to paranoia.
- Substance-Induced Psychosis
- Developing psychosis from prolonged use is a common effect of the use of meth. Users may experience short-term effects of psychosis and develop this disorder long-term with prolonged use.
- Eating Disorders
- As methamphetamines decrease appetite, it is common to develop an eating disorder with the use of this substance. Using this substance as an appetite suppressant can reinforce factors of eating disorders and addiction.
- Violent Behavior
- Many individuals struggle to manage their behaviors when on this substance. Acts of violence are more likely to occur, which can potentially harm oneself and others as well as get one into legal trouble.
Each of these side effects can come with various consequences. We encourage you to stay away from methamphetamines and reach out for help immediately if you have used meth and any of these symptoms occurred.
The use of methamphetamines can have severe negative effects on both the body and mind. The highly addictive properties of this substance often cause individuals to fall into high levels of psychological distress and separation from reality. Understanding the effects that may occur can help you make an educated decision regarding the use of this substance. As many of these effects can lead to long-term damage, it is important to ask for help immediately if you encounter any sign of addiction to this substance or experience any concerning side effects. Some of the health effects of meth use are irreversible, but others may diminish if the addiction is treated early. Help spread awareness of these concerns and develop an understanding of the effects this substance can have on your physical body and mental health. To learn more about the negative effects of methamphetamines, call Dream Recovery at (949) 732-1960.