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Common Side Effects of Meth

Common Side Effects of Meth

If you or someone you care about is struggling with problematic use of methamphetamines, there is no other step to take but get assessed and diagnosed — before getting admitted into a meth addiction treatment program.

Methamphetamines, more commonly known as meth, crystal meth, or crank, are powerful and addictive stimulants that can be consumed, injected, smoked, or snorted. An addiction can quickly develop due to the high and false confidence that come with meth use. While initially pleasurable, using meth can destroy someone’s life by burning up the body’s resources and leaving them with a dependence that’s only relieved by using more meth.

Searching for a meth addiction treatment program in Panama City Beach, Florida? Reach out to Recovery Bay Center today. You can call 833.991.2955 or contact our team online.

What Are the Side Effects of Meth Abuse?

Someone struggling with abusing meth may initially experience heightened alertness, energy, and euphoria. This is due to meth increasing the amount of a natural chemical called dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is involved in body movement, motivation, and reinforcing behaviors. Meth rapidly releases high levels of dopamine into the brain. On top of the behavioral and psychological effects mentioned above, short-term meth abuse may also cause harmful physical effects, such as the following:

  • Appetite loss
  • Disturbed sleep patterns
  • Faster breathing
  • Increased blood pressure and body temperature
  • Nausea
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Meth not only changes how the brain’s chemistry but also speeds up the body’s systems to dangerous levels. Meth abuse increases blood pressure, as well as heart and respiratory rates.

People struggling with long-term meth addiction may experience anxiety, confusion, delusions, hallucinations, mood disturbances, and paranoia. They may also experience more severe physical health consequences, such as the following:

  • Damage to the liver, lung, and kidneys
  • High blood pressure that can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and even death
  • Insomnia
  • Intense itching that can lead to scratching and skin sores
  • Permanent damage to the heart and brain
  • Premature osteoporosis
  • Severe dental problems
  • Aggressive and violent behavior

What Should You Expect From a Meth Addiction Treatment Program?

A comprehensive meth addiction treatment program often consists of detoxification, psychotherapy, and possible prescription medications. Detoxification purges a client’s body of all addictive substances that may be in their system. Psychotherapy addresses the psychological damage done by addiction, as well as teaches a client how to healthily deal with problematic behaviors, feelings, and thought patterns. Sometimes, prescription medication can be used to treat symptoms and other issues that come up due to overcoming addiction.

In cases of severe meth addiction, admission into an inpatient meth addiction treatment program could be recommended. Programs like this require participants to reside in a rehab facility for the duration of treatment.

Aftercare planning is typically offered by most addiction treatment programs. Support after rehab is incredibly important in maintaining sobriety. Joining a support group is often part of aftercare plans, as well as ongoing one-on-one therapy sessions and scheduled medical tests.

When Should You Consider a Meth Addiction Treatment Program?

If you or someone you care about is experiencing the side effects of meth abuse, you may be looking for a way to significantly improve the situation. While it can be intimidating to seek professional help, it’s often the best choice to make when it comes to addiction.

It’s crucial to prioritize seeking professional help promptly, especially when dealing with meth addiction, given that this destructive substance can ultimately result in perilous physical ramifications. Immediate intervention is essential because meth addiction can lead to severe and lasting harm to vital organs like the brain and heart. In order to facilitate a comprehensive recovery journey, individuals struggling with meth addiction should consider enrolling in a specialized men’s recovery center. These centers offer tailored treatment programs that address the unique needs and challenges faced by men during the recovery process. By choosing to engage with a men’s recovery center, individuals can access a supportive environment where they can receive expert guidance, therapy, and counseling designed to promote healing and sustainable sobriety. The focus on gender-specific care within a men’s recovery center acknowledges the distinctive factors that may contribute to addiction and recovery for men, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment provided. This integrated approach to addressing meth addiction not only targets the physical consequences but also tackles the underlying psychological and emotional aspects, fostering a well-rounded and holistic path to recovery.

Ready To Learn More About Recovery Bay Center’s Meth Addiction Treatment Program?

If you’re looking for a meth addiction treatment program in Panama City Beach, Florida, contact Recovery Bay Center today. You can call 833.991.2955 or reach out to our team online.