Methamphetamine is a highly addictive, stimulant drug. Those who engage in meth substance abuse develop dangerous side effects involving the body and the mind. Meth acts on the central nervous system to release a cascade of dopamine, causing feelings of pleasure. Over time, however, the dopamine receptors in the brain are destroyed, leading to potentially permanent damage to the brain. Since meth is so addictive, users will need to undergo an intensive substance abuse treatment program.
Physical Effects
Substance abuse exacts a heavy toll on the user’s body. Users tend to suffer ill effects from insomnia, malnutrition, and weight loss. They run the risk of damage to the liver, kidneys, and lungs, and they are at an increased risk of life-threatening events such as stroke. Methamphetamine also has a detrimental effect on a user’s oral health from a combination of factors such as increased dry mouth, poor nutrition, poor oral care, and drug-induced teeth grinding. Meth users commonly display broken, rotting teeth.
Psychotic Symptoms
Although users take meth to feel a sense of euphoria, this substance will alter the structure of the brain, preventing users from feeling any joy at all. This substance abuse problem is also commonly characterized by psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and anxiety. Users may become extremely aggressive or severely depressed.
Lifestyle Risks
Since methamphetamine lowers a person’s normal inhibitions, use of the drug can lead to potentially dangerous lifestyle choices. Meth users often have multiple sexual partners and fail to use condoms, placing them at risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Furthermore, substance abuse causes significant financial and legal problems for the user.
Substance abuse has devastating consequences for the user and his or her family members. With the intensive addiction treatment program at Las Encinas Hospital in Pasadena, you can overcome chemical dependency and rebuild your life. Call us today at (888) 348-2165 to speak with one of our friendly representatives.
