Methamphetamine, or meth, is a highly addictive stimulant drug with a long history of abuse. Meth addiction is a serious, life-threatening problem that requires professional treatment.
Knowing the long-term effects of meth addiction can help you understand the urgency of seeking treatment.
If you or someone you know is struggling with meth addiction, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. At Prairie Recovery, we offer a variety of meth addiction treatment programs that can help you get your life back on track. Get meth addiction treatment today; call [Direct].
What Is Meth?
Meth is a white, crystalline drug that is usually found in the form of powder or crystal. It is a powerful stimulant that increases levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain and can lead to feelings of euphoria.
Meth is a Schedule II drug, which means that it has a high potential for abuse and addiction but can also be used for medical purposes such as treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
How Meth Affects the Body
Learning how meth affects the body is essential for understanding why this drug is so addictive.
Methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant that speeds up the activity of the brain and nervous system. When someone takes meth, they may feel more alert and awake.
The effects of meth depend on how the drug is taken. When meth is smoked or injected, the effects are felt almost immediately and can last several hours. When meth is taken orally, the effects are felt more slowly but can last up to 12 hours.
Signs and Symptoms of Meth Addiction
Several signs and symptoms indicate how meth affects the body and mind of someone struggling with meth addiction. These can include:
- Taking meth more often or in higher doses than intended
- Unable to control or reduce meth use
- Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from meth
- Craving meth or feeling an intense urge to use
- Continuing to use meth despite negative consequences
- Giving up important activities to use meth
- Using meth in hazardous situations
- Using meth despite being aware of the physical and mental health risks
If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these signs, it’s vital to seek professional help as soon as possible.
Side Effects of Meth Addiction
When we discuss the side effects of meth addiction, we’re talking about the negative consequences that can occur resulting from the long-term effects of meth addiction. These side effects can be physical, mental, and emotional.
Physical effects of meth addiction include:
- Weight loss
- Tooth decay
- Skin sores
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Dilated pupils
- Elevated body temperature
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Decreased appetite
Mental side effects of meth addiction include:
- Anxiety
- Euphoria
- Paranoia
- Aggression
- Hallucinations
Emotional side effects of meth addiction include:
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Depression
- Isolation
These side effects can have a significant impact on your life and can lead to problems at work, school, and in your personal relationships. Get help before the long-term effects of meth use become too severe.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Meth Addiction?
Meth addiction is a severe and chronic disease that can have devastating consequences. The long-term effects of meth addiction can include:
- Brain damage
- Psychosis
- Memory loss
- Cardiovascular problems
- Kidney damage
- Liver damage
If you or someone you love is struggling with meth addiction, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. At Prairie Recovery, we can help you get on the road to recovery.
Treatment for Long-Term Effects of Meth Use at Prairie Recovery
At Prairie Recovery, our programs are designed to meet your unique needs and can be customized to fit your individual situation.
Some of the meth addiction treatment programs we offer include:
- Inpatient treatment – Designed for those who need 24/7 supervision and support. This program includes a detoxification process as well as individual, group, and family therapy.
- Outpatient treatment – Designed for those who need more flexibility in their treatment. This program includes individual, group, and family therapy.
- Aftercare – Designed for those who have completed our inpatient or outpatient treatment programs. This program includes continued support and resources for recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with meth addiction, don’t wait to get help. Contact us today at [Direct] to learn more about our long-term effects of meth use rehabilitation programs.