Methamphetamines, also known as meth, is a highly addictive drug that creates significant health risks when used. It is also one of the most commonly abused illicit drugs because it can be easy to obtain. If you suspect your loved one is using meth, helping a loved one usually involves helping them seek out a meth treatment program as soon as possible. Because of the destruction meth can create, we encourage you to reach out to the outstanding team at Atlanta Detox Center right away.

What Are the Risks of Meth Addiction?

As one of the most dangerous types of addictions, meth addiction can quickly create a number of health risks. It creates a euphoric high when used, which is why people seek it out. This stimulant is particularly dangerous because it remains in the brain for a long time, causing damage to the nerve terminals in the brain and damaging its ability to communicate. Meth use can cause mood disturbances and even psychosis. It can also cause an inability to experience pleasure and, through chronic use, leads to the breakdown of many of the body’s essential functions.

It’s specifically important to monitor for a significant change in personality in meth users. Often, this drug causes people to experience a range of behavioral changes. Helping a loved one beat a meth addiction first means identifying signs that may indicate this type of addiction. If you recognize these signs in a loved one, contact the Atlanta Detox Center staff immediately.

6 Signs of Meth Addiction in a Loved One

1. Twitching

When someone abuses meth, they tend to twitch or make jerky movements with their limbs. Also, look into the person’s eyes. Rapid eye movement and dilated pupils are indicators that someone is high on meth.

2. Hyperactivity

If your friend or family member has sudden bursts of significant energy, this may be a sign of meth addiction. Also, they will probably have difficulty focusing or performing simple tasks.

3. Mood Swings

Perhaps you’ve noticed mood swings in your loved one. This could be a symptom of meth addiction. There may also be outbursts of anger that appear out of nowhere. These outbursts are often accompanied by paranoia.

4. Sudden Weight Loss

You may have noticed that your loved one has lost a significant amount of weight, often due to not eating or eating infrequently. Also, your friend or family member may be wearing baggy clothes, even during hot weather. This is a technique to conceal weight loss.

5. Physical Changes

Look for burn marks or sores on the skin. A common side effect of meth addiction is sores that appear on the face or arms. Also, rotting teeth can be a sign of meth addiction.

6. Erratic Sleep Patterns

People with a meth addiction tend to binge on meth and stay awake for days at a time. This leads them to “crash” and sleep for long periods of time.

Any of these signs can indicate a need for immediate treatment. A person may “tweak” for three to fifteen days after using meth. During this time, the body, which is deprived of the dopamine produced by the use of the drug, becomes exhausted. This can include periods of intense drug cravings, depression, and sleep. It can typically last one to three days.

Immediate Meth Addiction Side Effects

When a person uses meth, you may notice an increase in anxiety, aggression, hallucinations, and paranoia. They may have an increased body temperature as well as heart rate. Some struggle with chest pain, flushed skin, or muscle twitching. There is also the risk of overdose. This can occur when the heart stops, seizures occur, or heat stroke happens. Too much of the drug at one time leads to this sometimes fatal medical emergency.

How to Get Help for Meth Addiction

When you see the signs of meth addiction in a loved one, don’t wait to get help for them. At Atlanta Detox Center, our meth addiction treatment program enables the body to safely remove the toxins and components of the drug, enabling healing and promoting health overall.

In our meth detox center, a person is safe as their body works through this process. They receive support and counseling, so they gain the tools necessary not to relapse. Because of how dangerous this drug is, it is critical to ensure detox is the first step. Learn more about our programs such as:

When You See Signs of Meth Addiction, Reach Out to Us for Help

Recognizing the signs of meth addiction in a loved one means taking action right away to begin helping a loved one. Meth addiction is a dangerous and life-shorting disease. We can help you through it with compassionate meth addiction treatment. Learn more by calling Atlanta Detox Center now at 470-450-2355 or connect with us online.

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