Pathophysiology of a Crystal Meth Addiction.
The potency of the high from crystal meth makes it so addictive to users. The effects persist and last more than even stimulants such as cocaine. Substance dependence develops rapidly due to the physical effects of crystal meth, sometimes after the first usage.
Methamphetamine is a very effective CNS stimulant. It increases the speed with which your body operates, including your heart rate and breathing. A flood of feel-good dopamine is released as soon as it reaches the brain, making you feel elated. The first thing that a person feels after taking meth is a sudden “rush” or “flash”. Next comes a feeling of euphoria, heightened awareness, and increased activity. Meth abuse gradually affects brain chemistry. With continued meth abuse, tolerance builds, and higher dosages are needed to obtain the same results. Dependence and addiction to the substance develop as a result.
Major Signs of Crystal Meth Addiction.
- Behavioral changes
Crystal meth addiction is characterized by radical personality changes. It’s a frequent trait of meth addicts to cease caring as much about what other people think, even if they previously took precautions to disguise their drug usage. If a loved one of yours has been abusing meth regularly, you may notice changes in their behavior, such as the ones listed below.
- Engaging in risky activities.
- Disliking previously enjoyed hobbies.
- Distancing oneself from loved ones.
- Mood Outbursts
Extreme mood outbursts are a common symptom of meth abuse and addiction. These shifts in moods are generally rapid and extreme. Potential examples of such are:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Irritability
- Hyperactivity
Behaviors characterized by anxiety, as well as sudden and extreme shifts in mood, might indicate that someone you care about is addicted to meth. Negative emotions will increase as the addiction progresses.
- Putting off responsibility and other aspects of life.
People who are severely dependent on meth may lose interest in everything else. They will value meth more than their career, relationships, and duties to others. This is a direct result of their dependency on meth. They will also often spend all their money on acquiring methamphetamine.
- Changes in appearance.
The use of methamphetamine may manifest itself physically in several ways:
- Intense scratching.
- Meth mouth (decaying teeth).
- Skin sores.
- Weight loss.
- Dilated pupils.
- Drooping of the facial skin.
Physical manifestations of meth use are highly indicative of the severity of the underlying issue. Talk to your loved one if you notice a rapid shift in their physical appearance, including but not limited to hair growth, skin tone, or facial characteristics
- Tweaking
Tweaking is another major sign of crystal meth addiction. It is characterized by unsteady walking patterns and rapid speech patterns. The user may also experience sleeplessness at this stage.
Let Us Help You Beat Crystal Meth Addiction
It’s time to have a conversation about getting assistance if you or someone you know is showing any of the above warning signs of crystal meth use or addiction. Our meth addiction treatment programs at Mallard Lake Detox Center in Houston, Texas, can help you or a loved one break free of the drug’s clutches and go on to live a happy life. Please reach out!
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