Methamphetamine, or meth, is a stimulant that is usually found in the form of a white powder or pill that is most often smoked or injected. There’s also crystal meth, which is a crystalline form of the drug. Although meth is an illegal drug in the United States, many people abuse the drug for its “rush” and euphoric effects and then become addicted. Once addicted, people may experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop, or they get carried away and put their lives at risk. Due to its highly addictive nature, many people who become dependent on meth require the assistance of facilities like our Chicago meth rehab to recover long-term.

Signs and Symptoms of Meth Abuse

When a person abuses meth, they are likely to undergo a combination of physical and mental side effects that can quickly escalate. Should this habit be allowed to persist, it is not unlikely that the affected individual will find their need to use the drug continues to grow. If you suspect that your loved one needs the help of a meth treatment center, make sure you know what signs to look out for.

Heavy methamphetamine abuse can result in some serious health consequences. Signs someone may be abusing meth and in need of a meth rehab center include:1

  • An inability to sleep
  • Decreased appetite and weight loss
  • Scabs from intense scratching
  • Severe dental problems (meth mouth)
  • Paranoia or hallucinations
  • Violent behavior

People may also experience withdrawal symptoms, which is a common indicator of physical dependence. If your loved one is exhibiting many of these signs, it may be time to get them to help with our Chicago addiction treatment center.

What Does a Meth Overdose Look Like?

Due to the overpowering effect, it has on the body's systems, a methamphetamine overdose, which results from consuming an excessive amount of the substance, can cause life-threatening medical issues. Overdosing on meth can result in serious physiological and psychological effects, demanding immediate medical care. The rapid onset of symptoms, which can vary in severity depending on an individual's tolerance, the potency of the meth, and their general health, is one of the most noticeable elements of a meth overdose.

Symptoms of a meth overdose include:

  • Agitation and hyperactivity: Meth overdose amplifies the stimulant effects, resulting in intense restlessness, anxiety, and an overpowering feeling of agitation.
  • Elevated Body Temperature: Methamphetamine raises body temperature, and an overdose can cause a severe spike that might result in hyperthermia, copious sweating, and the possibility of heatstroke.
  • Cardiovascular Complications: An overdose of meth can result in a rapid heartbeat, raised blood pressure, and erratic heartbeats, which put a great deal of stress on the cardiovascular system.
  • Respiratory Distress: Chest pain and tightness are frequent meth overdose symptoms, as are breathing problems and shortness of breath.
  • Delirium and confusion: Excessive meth use can cause delirium, confusion, and hallucinations, which can make a person lose their sense of reality.

It is essential to quickly identify these signs of overdose and seek out prompt medical attention. Meth overdose can be lethal if left untreated, highlighting how crucial it is to recognize these symptoms and act quickly to save a person's life.

What Is the Penalty for Possession of Meth in Illinois?

In Illinois, the charge for possession of methamphetamine will vary depending on the amount that is possessed. Between 15 and 100 grams of methamphetamine are prohibited from possession, and violators face fines of up to $500,000 and/or prison terms ranging from six to thirty years. Penalties for anyone found in possession of 100–400 grams are considerably more severe. Offenders face a maximum fine of $500,000 or the street value of the drugs, in addition to a sentence of nine to forty years in prison.1

If the methamphetamine content is more than 400 grams but less than 900 grams, the penalties go up. This is a criminal offense that carries a $500k maximum fine or the drug's street value. The offender may also be sentenced to 12 to 50 years in jail. In the end, Illinois considers more than 900 grams of methamphetamine to be a serious offense. Offenders facing a jail sentence ranging from 15 to 60 years, a fine of up to $500,000, or the street value of the narcotic, face consequences if proven guilty of meth possession.1

How To Get Meth Out of Your System

Recovering from meth use requires removing the drug from your body as a necessary first step. Allowing your body to progressively metabolize and eliminate the medicine on its own is the primary phase in the procedure. This is a critical time to stay hydrated because it aids in the body's removal of toxins. Using water may speed up the excretion process. Your body's natural detoxification processes can also be aided by a well-balanced, mineral-rich diet. The essential elements needed to hasten the body's metabolism of methamphetamine and its metabolites can be found in lean meats, fruits, and vegetables.

Frequent exercise is another helpful strategy for accelerating the removal of meth from your system. Sweating and increased blood flow from exercise can help the body rid itself of pollutants. Before beginning any workout program, you should speak with a healthcare provider, especially if you have any underlying medical issues. Lastly, you must get enough sleep so that your body can heal and mend itself. Getting enough sleep boosts your health and immune system, which helps your body's natural detoxification process. Remember that consulting with a healthcare provider or addiction specialist at a meth rehab center who can offer individualized guidance and support throughout the process is the best way to guarantee a safe and successful detox.

Our Meth Recovery Program 

At Banyan Treatment Centers Chicago, we have the proper methamphetamine abuse treatment you need for long-term success and sobriety. Because meth is highly addictive, it is easy for people to cross that line from recreational use to dependence. The first step to regaining control of your life is to admit that you have a problem and to take part in formal rehab for meth addiction.

Our drug rehab in Chicago offers levels of substance abuse treatment to help you through every step of the recovery process. With our PHP and IOP, you will be surrounded by an environment that is designed with your success in mind. When you leave our facilities, your recovery doesn’t stop there. 

Our addiction support groups will keep you connected to other recovering peers to prevent relapse. Besides focusing solely on removing your body’s dependence on the drug, our inpatient and outpatient meth addiction rehab programs will also work to improve all of the aspects of your life or your loved one’s life that meth has tainted. 

With our dual diagnosis treatment, we want to improve your mental health as well. Through programs like group therapy sessions, cognitive behavioral therapy, and family therapy, we work to instill the right mindset to help clients with co-occurring addictions and mental health disorders recover. 

Get the treatment for meth addiction you need at our Chicago drug rehab facility. Do not let your meth addiction control the life of you or your loved one any longer. 

Contact Banyan Chicago today to learn more about our meth addiction treatment or other forms of substance-specific rehab programs at our Illinois rehabs.

Source:

  1. IWU – Illinois Drug Laws

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