While the short-term side effects of meth use may seem minor, the long-term effects can be devastating. These include heart problems, infertility, and damage to the immune system. Long-term meth use can also lead to psychosis and hallucinations. Long-term meth use also affects the structure of the brain, resulting in deficits in thinking, increased distractibility, and aggressive behaviors.
Infertility
The use of methamphetamine while pregnant is a huge threat for both mother and child. It is linked to a number of adverse effects, including placental separation and premature birth. It can also cause severe problems with fetal development, including brain damage and learning disabilities. Mothers who use methamphetamine for adhd while pregnant are also at a higher risk of other drug misuse, such as alcohol and cigarettes. This can significantly increase the risk of having a baby with mental and emotional problems.
While the exact number of cases is unknown, there are some indications that drug use may contribute to infertility. Some studies suggest that exposure to illicit drugs may affect male fertility. In the United States, illicit drug use is common, especially among men. It is estimated that almost a quarter of men are involved in drug abuse.
Heart problems
Heart problems are common side effects of meth use, and they can limit the drug user’s ability to function in society. However, abstinence from meth use can help to protect the heart. Several studies have shown that abstinence from meth use improves heart function tests.
Heart problems caused by meth abuse can lead to heart arrhythmias, which can be life-threatening. Long-term meth use can also cause cardiomyopathy, a disease that weakens the heart muscle.
Dry mouth
Meth mouth can be a serious problem. The sticky bacteria that accumulate on the teeth from meth use can lead to tooth decay. Over time, this bacteria will harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. This can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. Meth mouth also prevents the mouth from producing a healthy amount of saliva. Therefore, meth mouth can be very difficult to treat.
In addition to dry mouth, methamphetamine abusers‘ facial features may also be affected by the drug. These effects can include wrinkles, meth sores, and gum disease. Meth mouth also increases the likelihood of gum disease and tooth decay.
Damage to the immune system
Meth use can damage the immune system and cause other health problems. It is especially harmful for those who inject it. Not only can you contract infections at the injection site, but you also risk contracting MRSA, or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, which is fatal if not treated quickly. Meth also lowers inhibitions, making users more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as unsafe sex.
Studies of meth use have shown that it affects immune cells, including killer T cells. Killer T cells are the key to fighting off pathogens. Methamphetamine also tends to dry out mucous membranes, making them more vulnerable to infection.
Birth defects
Methamphetamine use during pregnancy is associated with a greater risk of birth defects, including low birth weight, cleft palate, and other malformations. Even a single exposure to meth during pregnancy can damage the fetus for years to come. Meth does not produce the protective enzymes necessary to repair DNA, which leaves the developing fetus vulnerable to free radical damage. Free radicals are known to cause a wide variety of health problems, including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Meth during pregnancy can also cause developmental delays in the fetal period, when organs such as the brain and spine are developing.
The effects of meth use on the developing fetus are less understood than those of opiates, alcohol, and cocaine. Methamphetamine users often use other drugs during pregnancy, which can complicate birth outcomes. The unrestricted manufacturing processes of meth also contribute to its teratogenicity. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Increased risk of HIV
Researchers have found that HIV and meth use interact on multiple levels and that using the drug increases one’s risk of contracting the disease. In addition, it increases the risk of developing other sexually transmitted infections. In addition, crystal meth use has been linked to multiple sex partners and condom abandonment. Furthermore, the drug can cause trauma to the vagina and anus.
The researchers also found that meth use increases mucosal inflammatory cytokine production, which ramps up the immune system’s response to HIV. This may help explain why meth use increases the risk of HIV seroconversion.
Other resources:
Comparative Acute Effects of LSD and Psilocybin in Rats
The Most Common Clothing in America
Cross Tolerance Between LSD and Psilocybin
Powerful Superfruits: Boosting Immunity and Overall Well-being
