What is crystal meth? The drug crystal methamphetamine goes by many names, including ice, chalk, and speed. Moreover, it’s a stimulant and is often used recreationally. Take a closer look at the side effects of crystal meth, the risks of addiction, and how to end the cycle of drug abuse once and for all.
Explaining What is Crystal Meth?
In fact, crystal meth is the crystalline form of methamphetamine. It’s usually white or clear, and it looks like small rocks or crystals.
Crystal meth can be abused in a number of ways. For example, some users crush crystal meth and inhale it or snort it. Others smoke crystal meth or inject it directly into the body. However you use crystal meth, it will result in severe side effects and lasting consequences. The drug is a stimulant, it’s addictive, and it has the potential to ruin or end lives.
What are the Immediate Effects of Crystal Meth?
What is crystal meth, and why do people take it at all? Most people take crystal meth because they want to experience the drug’s effects. Specifically, using crystal meth brings on rapid side effects. The so-called desirable effects of meth include an increase in energy, a boost in confidence, and a drop in appetite.
Of course, the side effects of crystal meth are mostly negative. Taking crystal meth just once can lead to heavy sweating, paranoia, a high body temperature, and jaw clenching. Moreover, it can also cause dry mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and irritability.
What are the Long-Term Effects of Crystal Meth?
The longer you use crystal meth, the worse the side effects will become. Many people experience meth mouth, and many others start to feel bugs itching and crawling under their skin. Crystal meth can also lead to fatigue, headaches, and extreme weight loss.
Paranoia, anxiety, and depression are all commonly tied to crystal meth use. The drug can also lead to cardiac arrest, a stroke, or seizures.
How Does a Drug Addiction Develop?
A crystal meth addiction can develop quickly. When you use crystal meth, your body begins to build up a tolerance for the drug. Therefore, you’ll start to need more and more crystal meth in order to feel the same effects.
Eventually, it will feel impossible to quit or even to cut back on the dosage. Once this happens, an addiction to crystal meth has developed.
How Can You End Crystal Meth Abuse or Addiction?
The good news is that you can fight back against an addiction to crystal meth. At Ashley Addiction Treatment, our programs allow for custom care that fits your specific needs. A holistic approach goes beyond the physical aspects of recovery and works toward total health. For example, some effective treatments include:
- Pain management programs
- Dual diagnosis support
- Massage, yoga and reflexology therapies
- Group therapy
- Individual talk therapy sessions
What is crystal meth? In short, it’s a drug that can ruin your life. Fortunately, programs at Ashley Addiction Treatment in Havre de Grace, Maryland, can get you back on track to sobriety. Begin your recovery by calling 866-313-6307 today.