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Methamphetamine may have at one time
been considered “the poor man's cocaine,' but it is no longer solely the
domain of the financially challenged. Meth abuse is rampant in
Australia, and an increasing number of people across a wide demographic
are falling to the serious effects of these horrible drugs.
Known
as psychostimulants, the drugs include amphetamines, including
methamphetamine, cocaine and ecstasy. Many are sniffed or snorted,
although some can be swallowed or injected. The more potent, crystalline
forms of methamphetamine - ice and crystal - are active only when
smoked. As a stimulant, it inhibits the user's need for sleep. It also
speeds up metabolism and contributes to extreme weight loss.It also
causes a euphoric feeling in the user that leads to lowered inhibitions
and increased sexual arousal.
A "meth" user can be described as a
perpetually revving engine that eventually burns out and can't be
started again until fixed. Addicts have to relearn so many things -
things that you and I might take for granted. They have to relearn how
to enjoy food. They have to learn how to think again, because on the
drug the focus is narrowed. Sex is no longer the same off the drug
because when you're on “meth”, everything is so heightened - so intense.
That's why the relapse rate is so high. Many people can't break the
drug's hold. The pleasure experienced by a "meth addict" during the
drug's initial rush is equivalent to 10 orgasms. However, the damage it
leaves behind is just as extreme - and, in many cases, permanent.
The abuser will have a variety of
cardiovascular problems, including:
Rapid heart rate Irregular heartbeat Increased blood pressure
Irreversible, stroke-producing damage to small blood vessels in the
brain Elevated body temperature Convulsions
Continued use only worsens the damage:
Inflammation
of the heart lining Damaged blood vessels and skin abscesses Violent
behaviour Paranoia Anxiety Confusion Insomnia Extreme
weight loss Social and occupational deterioration Psychotic
symptoms, such as visual and audio hallucinations that can persist for
months or years after use has ended. Death.
Meth addiction can also cause something
known as meth-mouth.
It
affects those who smoke the drug and is caused when the user inhales
the heated vapours, which irritate and burn the sensitive skin inside
the mouth, creating sores that become infected.
Chronic users suffer from rotten teeth
because their tooth enamel erodes.
Snorting the drug also
causes "meth-mouth" because the drug drains into the throat from the
nasal passages.
Signs of
meth-mouth include:
Dry
mouth. Meth dries out the salivary glands, which are meant to
protect tooth enamel, which protects against cavities.
Tooth decay. Meth abusers are know
for trying to fend off dry mouth by drinking sugary substances. Tooth
decay caused by meth abuse typically starts at the gum line and
eventually spreads to the entire tooth. Cracked teeth. The drug can make users feel anxious or
nervous, which causes them to grind their teeth, developing cracks in
the teeth. Gum disease. Meth
causes the blood vessels in the gums and teeth to shrink, reducing
blood flow. This, in turn, causes the tissue to break down and die.
At
GATS the increase in Meth Addicts in the last 12 months alone has been 300% from 2 years ago. Not a good sign, however at least some
people are starting to get help. If you or someone you love is in the
grips of “Meth addiction” call us today for help or how to intervene. T
If you or some you love is in the grips of Meth Addiction pick up the phone
TODAY and call us Now 08 8363 3392 (7days) Ask about our family support and education groups and our intervention process
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