Like many other abused substances that alter brain chemistry, those who abuse methamphetamine can develop a tolerance and require higher doses of the drug to feel the same pleasurable effects. Because methamphetamine, also known as meth, sends signals of joy and pleasure to the brain, it can be impossible to feel joy or pleasure without it. For most, meth addiction treatment programs are the safest and most effective way to detox from meth and prevent relapse.
If you or a loved one are currently using meth, turn to our team at Baltimore Detox Center. We provide comprehensive meth addiction treatment that heals both the physical and psychological effects of this type of addiction. One of the ways to help someone you care about is to recognize the signs of meth addiction.
Physical Signs of Meth Abuse
Meth is a highly addictive illegal stimulant that can lead to dependency in just one use. The drug produces a dopamine rush, the chemical responsible for motivation, pleasure, joy, and memory retention. Meth creates more dopamine than the natural levels produced by the brain, which contribute to the drug’s addictive nature. Many who try detoxing at home struggle with depression, anxiety, and the inability to sleep through the night.
Because of its low cost and availability, it can be easy for those using other addictive substances or those curious about meth to try it and quickly develop an addiction. The drug can be injected, smoked, or snorted, causing an immediate rush of dopamine to the brain. This rush can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Common signs and symptoms of meth use are:
- Irritability
- Agitation
- Paranoia
- Increased alertness
- Hyperactivity
- Confusion
- Loss of appetite
- Irregular heartbeat
Physical signs of meth abuse may be easier to spot than behavioral indications of meth use. Many develop sores on their skin from picking scabs, moles, or dry patches during times of paranoia and agitation. Those who smoke meth can experience tooth decay, while those who inject the drug can suffer from collapsed veins. Any use of meth can increase STD contraction. Injecting meth increases the risk of blood-borne pathogens like hepatitis and HIV from sharing needles.
Meth Addiction Treatment
The first step in any addiction treatment is accepting addiction and wanting help. For many people who use meth, this can feel impossible because of meth’s effects on their brain chemistry. Addiction treatment programs can create structure, remove temptation and access to meth from people’s lives while using therapies to address the root cause of addiction. Rehabilitation programs are safe and effective treatment plans that offer peer support, solidarity, and medical assistance for those detoxing and beginning their journey to recovery.
Many meth users also abuse other addictive substances and are often at great risk of overdose, heart complications, and seizures. Meth addiction treatment uses holistic approaches to address all areas of a user’s life and create new and healthy behavioral patterns.
Our Prescription Drug Detox
If you suspect someone you love is using meth or if you are struggling to detox from meth at home, call Baltimore Detox Center. No one should be left to navigate detox and recovery alone. At Baltimore Detox Center, we lead with compassion. Our drug and alcohol treatment programs combine medical assistance and inpatient care with various types of therapy to help people rebuild their lives. We place a high value on family therapy to repair relationships caused by addiction. Our team proudly treats people struggling with addiction, depression, and anxiety disorders in the greater Baltimore area.
Take the First Step in Recovery at Baltimore Detox Center
When someone is stuck in the endless cycle of meth addiction, it can be overwhelming to think of entering into treatment. However, at Baltimore Detox Center, our team has the resources to help people ready to make a positive change. If you or a loved one may benefit from meth addiction treatment, reach out to our team today by calling [Direct] or completing our online form. Recovery is possible when you contact our team today.