Meth is a highly addictive and dangerous drug the longer someone uses it. The increased energy, focus, and euphoria become very enticing to people even after only using it once. However, continued use of meth can lead to overdose. Being able to recognize meth overdose symptoms can be the difference between life and death.
Understanding Meth Overdose: What You Need to Know
While the effects of meth may only last for a few hours, the drug can remain in the body for up to 4 days. If someone takes more meth during this time, they are increasing the amount of drug in the body. As these levels increase, the risk of overdose continues to grow.
The amount of meth required to overdose will vary from one person to the next. Factors such as weight, age, and tolerance determine the breaking point when someone will overdose. Additionally, some people mix meth with fentanyl or other opioids to enhance the effects experienced. Mixing meth with other drugs further increases the risk of overdose.
Signs of Meth Overdose: How to Identify a Crisis
It is important to know the warning signs of meth overdose to be able to help someone. The common signs of meth overdose to look for include:
- Hyperthermia
- Dizziness
- Elevated body temperature
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Excessive sweating
- Skin that is red, hot, and dry
- Clammy, bluish-colored fingers, lips, and toes
- Elevated heart rate
- Chest pain
- Muscle spasms
- Numbness
- Inability to move or walk
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Shaking
- Problems Breathing
People can also lose consciousness during a meth overdose. If they cannot be woken up, are making gurgling sounds, or have bluish-colored lips or skin, they have overdosed.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Help for a Meth Overdose
It is crucial to seek immediate medical help as soon as meth overdose symptoms are apparent. Do not wait for someone to pass out and lose consciousness. In some cases, they could have a heart attack or stroke or stop breathing without passing out.
Call 911 and stay on the phone with the 911 operator until help arrives. The operator will ask different questions and provide instructions on things to do until the EMTs arrive. If they are still conscious, they may not realize the signs of overdosing on meth. They may attempt to move or do other things that could potentially harm themselves or others. It is vital to try to keep them still until help arrives.
If the person is vomiting, it is important to keep them turned on the side so they do not choke on their vomit. If they are having seizures, you need to ensure they are kept away from objects that could injure them.
If they stop breathing, CPR should be started until the EMTs arrive. The 911 operator can provide guidance on how to do CPR.
The Dangers of Meth Overdose: Why Timely Intervention Matters
Timely intervention matters as soon as meth overdose symptoms are present. Delaying seeking help can lead to further medical complications. When someone stops breathing, the longer their brain goes without oxygen, the more likely there will be brain damage. Even if the person survives, they could be in a coma or have permanent brain damage.
In other cases, if the person is paranoid or experiencing hallucinations, they could hurt themselves or others. Most importantly, not intervening could result in death.
How to Support Someone at Risk of Meth Overdose
There are several things people can do to help support someone at risk of meth overdose. They should start by educating themselves about meth and addiction. This will help them better understand the disease of addiction and why their loved one just can’t stop using meth.
It is important to remain empathetic and non-judgemental when supporting someone with meth addiction. Next, they should be encouraged to seek professional help. Share the dangers of meth overdose, pamphlets about meth addiction, and how it could kill them. Providing help by sharing details about treatment programs, therapy sessions, and support groups could also help them. Be willing to go along with them and provide added support if it will get them to a meeting.
Most importantly, continue to monitor the person and be on the lookout for signs of a meth overdose. Unless the person is ready to seek help, all others can do is continue to remain supportive. Also, keep an eye on their loved ones in case they accidentally overdose so they get immediate medical care.
Preventing Meth Overdose
The most effective way to prevent meth overdose is to not use meth. However, for the 1.6 million people who were addicted to meth in 2021, as reported by the NIH. Unfortunately, prevention is usually the last thing on their minds.
However, encourage them to only use small doses and not mix meth with other substances. This can reduce, but not fully eliminate, the risk of overdose. Reminding them to drink plenty of water and eat could also potentially help lower the risk of overdosing on meth. Encouraging them to start meth detox treatment could also help.
Long-Term Effects of Meth Use
The long-term effects of meth use include physical and psychological effects, including:
- Psychosis
- Malnutrition
- Increased risk of HIV/AID, STDs, and hepatitis
- Lowered immune system response
- Dental problems/meth mouth
- Sores and open wounds
- Brain damage
- Developing mental health disorders
- Delusions
- Anger and violent behaviors
- Depression
- Anxeity
- Self-harm/suicide
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Respiratory failure
- Death
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