The Horrifying Effects of
Methamphetamines
SKIN
Acne appears or worsens. Obsessive skin-picking often causes meth users` faces to be covered in small sores and scarring - the result of a common sensory hallucination of bugs crawling beneath the skin.
FACIAL MUSCULATURE AND FAT
Acne appears or worsens. Obsessive skin-picking often causes meth users` faces to be covered in small sores and scarring - the result of a common sensory hallucination of bugs crawling beneath the skin.
TEETH AND GUMS
"Meth Mouth" is caused by several factors; tooth enamel is dissolved by the harsh chemicals of the drug, the blood vessels contained in healthy gums and teeth shrink, increasing the rate of decay, the production of saliva diminishes, allowing harmful acids to further damage the mouth, cravings for sugary foods increases with meth use, oral hygiene is typically neglected while high, and heavy tooth-grinding is an additional side effect of the drug.
INCREASED ESTIMATED AGE
The combination of skin issues, facial fat and muscle loss, hygiene neglect and increased oral decay lead to the appearance of exaggerated aging, sometimes shockingly so.
Resource for the above graphic: rehabs.com
Methamphetamine: Overview
The crystalline form of methamphetamine, is a very addictive synthetic drug that is typically injected, swallowed or snorted. It is also referred to as “crystal,” “ice,” “crank,” or “meth.” It can produce a high which lasts up to 12 hours and has appetite suppressing properties which makes it appealing, especially among women. Tolerance to crystal meth builds quickly which in turn causes the user to increase their intake as they chase a diminishing high. Crystal meth is full of harsh chemicals and impurities which make the drug very dangerous to the user.
| Symptoms | Short Term Effects | Long Term Effects |
|---|---|---|
|
Dilated Pupils |
Increased heart rate and blood pressure |
Delusions |
|
Inreased heart rate |
Insomnia |
Auditory hallucinations |
|
Signs of physical exertion (sweatiness & elevated body temperature) |
Irregular heartbeat & cardiovascular problems |
Homicidal or Suicidal thoughts |
|
Anxiety/Paranoia |
Violent Behavior |
Delusions |
|
Agitation, nervousness or frustration |
Possibility of Stroke |
|
|
Sleeplessness & Loss of appetite |
Intense Irritability |
|
|
Looking malnourished & oral deterioration |
Convulsions |
|
