Meth Face - What Meth Does To Your Face
- March 27, 2023
- Prosperity Haven
- Addiction Treatment
Methamphetamine, also known as meth, is a dangerous stimulant drug that has been linked to many devastating effects on the body and mind. One of the most well-known and damaging side effects of long-term methamphetamine use is its effect on the face. Meth users often have drastically altered physical appearances due to meth’s drastic impact on the skin, eyes and mouth.
Meth users often develop an unhealthy appearance over time, as the drug takes its toll on their physical health. Those using meth may appear gaunt and thin due to loss of appetite, or may have poorly maintained skin and nails due to poor nutrition. In addition, meth users often suffer from chronic tooth decay due to the acidic nature of the drug and can develop ‘meth mouth’, an unsightly condition in which the teeth are severely decayed and discolored.
If you would like to quit using meth before these facial changes become permanent, contact Prosperity Haven today.
Meth Sores
One of the most pronounced physical effects of long-term methamphetamine use is meth sores. Meth sores are ulcers that form on the body and face due to intense itching caused by dry skin from dehydration or poor hygiene associated with prolonged drug use. The sores not only cause physical pain and discomfort, but also create a disfiguring appearance that can be difficult to live with.
The itching associated with meth sores is usually caused by an increase in histamine levels in the body as a result of prolonged drug use; however, there are other factors as well such as poor diet and neglecting basic hygiene practices. As the itching progresses and becomes more intense, users often begin to scratch at their skin, resulting in open sores that can become infected if not properly treated.
Meth users can also hallucinate insects in and under their skin. This is known as formication or meth mites, and increases the user’s compulsive scratching, leading to even more pronounced sores.
If these meth face sores are not treated for a long period of time, they can become infected, leading to further disfiguration or even life-threatening complications. These complications include sepsis, gangrene and systemic toxicity. In some cases, meth sores can become so severe that they require skin grafts or amputations.
Meth Eyes
Another physical effect of prolonged methamphetamine use is a condition known as “meth eyes”. Meth eyes are characterized by a wide-eyed look, giving the user an almost zombie-like appearance. This condition is caused by long-term dilation of the pupils, creating a glassy-eyed look. This side effect is often accompanied by frequent blinking and difficulty focusing on objects.
Meth eyes can be a direct result of drying out the eye’s tear ducts due to excessive drug use, leading to discomfort and possible long-term damage. Meth users also have an increased risk of developing glaucoma and other vision problems due to the chronic dilation of their pupils.
Meth use can cause retinal vein occlusion due to narrowing of veins. This causes vision loss or blurry vision in one or both eyes.
Nasal meth use can also lead to crystalline retinopathy, which is a disorder caused by crystal deposits within the retina. This causes constricted visual fields and decreased visual acuity.
It is possible to improve your eye health after stopping using methamphetamine. Taking vitamins and minerals, especially ones with lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids, can help improve your vision. Eating healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables and lean proteins will also help to reduce any damage done to the eyes.
Using glasses for any sight problems is recommended as well. The use of corrective lenses can help reduce further risk of damage to the eyes. Crucially, you need to remember that you should never take meth again. Taking meth again will only cause further damage to your eye health.
Be sure to monitor your eye health after stopping the use of methamphetamine. Regular visits to the optometrist are recommended to ensure that your vision remains healthy and any potential problems can be caught early.
Meth Mouth
Yet another physical consequence of prolonged methamphetamine use is known as “meth mouth”. Meth mouth is characterized by poor oral hygiene, tooth decay and gum disease due to dry mouth, increased acidity in the saliva, and a general lack of proper dental care associated with drug use.
Meth users often experience frequent cavities, loss of enamel, and severe gum disease due to inadequate brushing and flossing as well as poor nutrition associated with drug use. In addition, chronic tooth grinding (bruxism) is a common side effect of methamphetamine use that often results in further damage to the teeth and gums. The effect of all this together leads to signs of “meth teeth”: corroded and absent teeth caused by meth use.
How To Get Help For A Meth Addiction
If you or someone you know is addicted to meth, there are many resources available to help. You need to find the right kind of treatment and support that fits your individual needs.
The first step in getting help for a meth addiction is to give us a call. We can assess your situation and provide you with a personalized treatment plan. This could involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
The gold standard of treatment for all types of addiction, including meth addiction, remains drug rehab. There is nowhere else where you can be safely detoxed, have your needs looked after by professionals, receive crucial addiction therapy and be around others who are going through what you are.
While some people who are addicted to meth may be able to quit without going to rehab, if you have a serious meth addiction, quitting without meth rehab is likely to prove incredibly challenging.
At Prosperity Haven, we have a long track record of successfully treating people for meth addiction. We are proud of our record, which we have gained through using effective methods for treating addiction with our team of excellent addiction professionals. For more information on how we can help you or your loved one break free of your meth addiction, contact us today.
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