Side Effects of Meth Addiction: Acute and Chronic Consequences Explained
The detrimental effects of methamphetamine addiction are well-documented, often evoking images of dental deterioration and skin lesions. However, the physiological and psychological consequences extend far beyond external appearance, profoundly impacting organ function and mental health.
Between 2019 and 2023, 24% of overdoses in Marin County were caused by methamphetamines. This shows the devastating effect meth can have on those you love.
Alta Mira provides insight into substance use and dives deeper into topics thought to be well-known. In this article, we discuss the side effects of meth addiction and their short and long-term ramifications.
Progression of Methamphetamine Side Effects Over Time
Methamphetamines (meth) are a powerful central nervous system stimulant, exerting a range of effects on the human body and mind. The impact of meth is observed progressively, starting with acute side effects and potentially leading to severe, chronic health consequences. Short-term use initially leads to heightened energy, increased focus, and euphoria; however, as consumption continues, tolerance develops, leading to more frequent use. As time goes on, methamphetamine use results in significant deterioration of both physical and mental health, often culminating in life-threatening conditions. The progression of these effects highlights the highly destructive nature of the substance.
Acute Physiological and Psychological Effects of Methamphetamine Use
Upon initial use, methamphetamine stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, creating an intense feeling of pleasure and energy. Physiologically, the person will experience an increase in heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and a rise in body temperature. These changes are accompanied by excessive sweating, dilated pupils, and dry mouth.
Psychologically, methamphetamines induce a sense of euphoria, heightened alertness, and an inflated sense of confidence. However, as the substance’s effects wear off, the person will experience irritability, anxiety, paranoia, and even aggression. In some cases, acute use triggers hallucinations or delusions, leading to erratic and dangerous behaviors. After the initial rush, the crash following methamphetamine use is characterized by extreme fatigue, depression, and intense cravings, which lead to the cycle of repeated use and eventual dependence.
Chronic Health Consequences of Prolonged Methamphetamine Use
Long-term methamphetamine use has devastating effects on multiple bodily systems. Chronic use significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, as persistent stimulation of the heart results in arrhythmias, high blood pressure, and an elevated likelihood of heart attacks or strokes. One study examined two cases of stroke occurring in patients less than 50 years old. In each case, meth use was noted after urine screening. One patient experienced a hemorrhagic stroke, while the other experienced an ischemic. Both patients were treated with stroke protocol, with the hemorrhagic patient entering a nursing facility after discharge with limited function, while the other patient completed a 30-day inpatient treatment and was able to walk with a cane.
Additionally, methamphetamine use is associated with severe dental problems, commonly referred to as “meth mouth,” which include tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss due to the substance’s effects on saliva production and poor hygiene habits during use.
Prolonged methamphetamine consumption also weakens the immune system, increasing the susceptibility to infections. Malnutrition is another concern, as meth suppresses appetite, leading to extreme weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Organ damage, particularly to the liver and kidneys, is common due to the toxic nature of the substance and the body’s prolonged efforts to metabolize it.
Neurological and Physiological Impacts of Methamphetamine Addiction
Methamphetamine use disorder leads to profound neurological changes, primarily due to the excessive release and subsequent depletion of dopamine. Over time, the brain adapts to the presence of meth by reducing natural dopamine production, impairing the person’s ability to experience pleasure from normal activities. This results in anhedonia, depression, and cognitive impairments such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making abilities.
Structural and functional changes in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for emotion regulation and impulse control, contribute to erratic behavior and increased susceptibility to mental health disorders. The damage to brain cells and neurotransmitter systems caused by methamphetamine use is long-lasting, with some effects persisting even after prolonged abstinence.
Physiologically, chronic methamphetamine use alters the body’s stress response, leading to heightened anxiety, paranoia, and sleep disturbances. The combination of neurological and physiological impairments makes recovery from methamphetamine use disorder a complicated process, requiring long-term medical and psychological intervention for successful outcomes.
Behavioral Indicators of Methamphetamine Use
Methamphetamine use is associated with distinct behavioral changes that can serve as warning signs of developing dependence. One of the most notable behavioral indicators is cravings, as the person prioritizes obtaining and consuming methamphetamines over personal, social, or professional responsibilities. This is paired with erratic or aggressive behavior, often accompanied by paranoia or extreme mood swings.
Social withdrawal is another common indicator, as those living with a methamphetamine use disorder often isolate themselves from family and friends. They also engage in risky behaviors, including unsafe sex, criminal activity, or financial irresponsibility, as a result of impaired judgment from meth use. Sleep disturbances, such as prolonged periods of wakefulness followed by excessive sleep, are also indicative of a methamphetamine use disorder.
Physiological Manifestations of Methamphetamine Consumption
The physiological effects of methamphetamine use manifest in several visible ways. As mentioned above, severe dental complications are a typical sign, characterized by decaying teeth and inflamed gums. Meth also causes the development of skin sores due to excessive scratching, often caused by hallucinations of bugs crawling under the skin, known as formication.
Rapid weight loss is another significant physiological manifestation, as methamphetamine suppresses appetite, leading to malnutrition and a frail physical appearance. Additionally, those who take meth via smoking experience chronic respiratory issues and frequent infections. Abscesses appear around injection sites, often on the arms and legs.
Due to the stimulant properties of meth, the person often exhibits hyperactivity, tremors, and excessive sweating. Long-term use results in serious health complications, including kidney failure, cardiovascular demise, and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases.
Psychological Symptoms Associated with Methamphetamine Use
Methamphetamine use has severe psychological implications that worsen over time. The person will experience euphoria, increased confidence, and heightened energy levels in the early stages. However, as dependency develops, these effects are replaced by negative psychological symptoms such as paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations.
One of the most concerning psychological effects is methamphetamine-induced psychosis, characterized by delusions, auditory and visual hallucinations, and extreme paranoia. This state leads to violent behavior and self-harm, making it a significant concern for the person and those around them.
Depression is another common symptom, particularly during withdrawal periods when the brain has difficulty producing dopamine naturally. Suicidal thoughts and tendencies are prevalent from long-term use due to the profound chemical imbalances caused by methamphetamines.
Cognitive impairments such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and poor decision-making skills are often observed. These impairments can persist even after discontinuation of use, highlighting the long-term consequences of methamphetamine use on mental health. One study showed that those taking methamphetamines long-term had significant deficits in motor function and verbal memory. Though there was no significant impact on IQ scores, memory recall test scores were drastically worse than the control group.
Treatment for Meth Use Disorder in Sausalito, CA
While the adverse effects of methamphetamine use disorder are often apparent, recognizing them in a loved one can evoke fear. Fortunately, meth addiction rehab provides you with the necessary tools to cease substance use and achieve long-term recovery. Evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play a crucial role in the treatment process by addressing maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors associated with addiction. Holistic approaches, including proper sleep, nutritional education, and coping strategies such as yoga and meditation, support overall well-being. Methamphetamine use significantly alters brain function, necessitating a prolonged period of neurological and psychological recovery. Engaging in a comprehensive treatment program offers individuals the time, resources, and skills essential for overcoming addiction and sustaining a drug-free life.
Methamphetamine use disorder does not have to last forever. The expert team at Alta Mira offers a private environment and comprehensive program that promotes lasting recovery. You will have all the comforts of home when you enter our residential program, and we allow you to bring your pets to help the healing process. Call us today at 866-922-1350 to learn more about our program offerings.
Alta Mira: Science-backed treatment, world-class care
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