Methamphetamine or meth is a stimulant drug that may be used medicinally on occasion to treat disorders like ADHD, but it is more often used illegally because it provides an initial euphoric high.
Because of its highly addictive quality, many people become dependent on this drug and often require formal methamphetamine rehab to help them stop. Not only is meth addictive, but also frequent abuse can lead to serious health consequences.
Meth Smoking Effects You Should Be Aware Of
Although there are other ways to ingest this drug, the most popular way of taking methamphetamine is by smoking it. This route of administration may seem less threatening than intravenous injection, but it comes with its own risks and does not eliminate the health dangers associated with the drug itself.Some possible effects of smoking meth include:
- Increased body temperature
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Memory loss
- Weight loss
- Meth mouth
- Sores, blisters, and blemishes from skin picking
- Overall decline in physical appearance
- Addiction
- Heart problems
- Lung and respiratory damage
Although it can lead to many health problems no matter how the user takes it, one of the side effects of smoking meth specifically is lung damage. Frequent inhalation of this drug can damage the respiratory system and lead to breathing problems as well as more serious issues like lung disease or pneumonia.1 Smoking meth instead of injecting it may also make dental problems worse. Long-term users of meth often have decaying or missing teeth and severe gum problems.
Not only are there many dangerous effects of smoking methamphetamine, but after a person becomes addicted, a meth detox comes with its own added problems. Those trying to do so will probably experience unpleasant emotional withdrawal symptoms that can lead to relapse. For this reason, it is better to detox under the supervision and support of a professional.
No matter how you ingest it, methamphetamine can negatively impact your health as well as lead to serious consequences outside of physical health. In many cases, people may be already be aware of the dangers of smoking meth but still struggle to stop. For these people, our Gilman treatment center could provide them with the support they need to finally quit for good.
Whether your loved one has a meth addiction or you struggle with another substance abuse problem, we are here. Get the help you deserve starting today.
To learn more about our facility at Banyan Heartland, reach out to us today at 888-280-4733.
Sources:
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.
