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    Meth Use Signs & Symptoms

There are certain ‘red flags’ associated with Meth use that will be noticeable from the very first time someone tries the drug.  Not every user will display every one of these symptoms; other illicit drugs may also cause similar signs. 
Information adapted from National Institute on Drug Abuse

Signs/Symptoms of Early Meth Use

Euphoric "high" state (excessively happy)
Paranoia
Decreased appetite
Increased physical activity
Anxiety, shaking hands, nervousness
Incessant talking
Rapid eye movement
Increased body temperature (can rise as high as 108 degrees and cause death)
Dilated pupils
Sweating not related to physical activity


Signs/Symptoms of Continued Meth Use

the above symptoms, plus:

Weight loss
Strong body odor
Shadows under the eyes
Dry or itchy skin
Pale complexion
Acne/Acne-type sores
Irritable and moody (mood swings)
 

Picking at skin or hair
Aggressive or violent behavior
Depression (withdrawal/tolerance effect)

Severe nail biting
Nose bleeds, nasal perforations
Dermatitis around the mouth
Lack of personal hygiene


Signs/Symptoms of Advanced Meth Use

the above symptoms, plus:

Extreme weight loss
Hair loss
Discolored, rotten or missing teeth
Corneal ulcerations
 
Severe mental illness symptoms, similar to schizophrenia (including anger, panic, paranoia, auditory and visual hallucinations, repetitive behavior patterns)

Meth Overdose -A toxic reaction (or overdose) can occur at relatively low levels, 50 milligrams of pure Meth for a non-tolerant user.  Metabolic rates vary from person to person, and the strength of the Meth varies from batch to batch, so there is no way of stating a "safe" level of use.   Because stimulants affect the body's cardiovascular and temperature-regulating systems, physical exertion increases the hazards of Meth use.

Signs/Symptoms of Meth Overdose

High fever
Chest pain
Rapid breathing

Sudden, dangerous increase in blood pressure
Profuse sweating
Chances of heart attack, stroke, or coma
Convulsions Tremors
Confusion

Dangerous rise in body temperature
Seeing spots (due to pressure on the nerves of eye)
Cardiovascular collapse

Chemical Process
Meth History
Forms of Meth
Meth Ingredients
Meth Paraphernalia
Effects of Use
Signs & Symptoms
Tweakers
User Progression
Treatment
Community Costs
Fast Facts
Lab Overview

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2000 Prairie View Prevention, Inc.