About ICE Addiction
Methamphetamine use is a growing concern in many countries around the world, including, but not limited to Australia, the U.K., the U.S., and the Philippines. When a person fails to discontinue using meth, it can quickly result in a dependency and ice addiction. Misuse of ice can create an enormous amount of physiological consequences, and sometimes, it can be fatal.
If you are on this page, there is a good chance that you suspect someone (perhaps yourself) of having an addiction to meth. While no two cases of an ice addiction are exactly the same, there are similarities; therefore, it is important to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of an ice addiction.
Bear in mind, as a person continues to use meth, they will likely display signs that are more obvious. Once a person is at this stage, the only way to help them is by encouraging them to go to a rehab for meth. Doing so may be easier said than done; thus, you may want to discuss with a rehab about the possibility of an intervention.
Common Signs of Ice Addiction
Methamphetamine can cause immense changes in the brain and body. With a continuum of use, the effects of the drug tend to be visible. Meth alters the way a user thinks, acts, and feels. They may focus entirely on getting their next dose, or fix, with a constant desire to chase the high they initially felt. It is common for frequent or heavy users to display the following signs of an addiction to ice:
- No longer being interested in life or usual activities and hobbies
- Lacking concern for relationships
- Isolation from loved ones and friends who do not use
- New friends who also show signs of meth abuse
- Engaging in risky behaviour
- Missing or lost money
- Participating in criminal activity
- Finding themselves in legal trouble
- Obsessing on a task or issues
- Missing important dates
- An increase in violent tendencies or behaviour
- A decrease in motor skills
- Odd sleep patterns
- Hyperactivity
- Loss of appetite
- Extreme weight loss
- Ticing or twitching
Paraphernalia Commonly Associated with Meth Use
In addition to considering the ice addiction signs, you might also notice various pieces of paraphernalia in the person’s vehicle, bedroom, office, house, or otherwise, personal space.
- A water pipe or other kind of pipe
- Burned spoons
- An excessive amount of aluminium foil
- Foil with scorch marks
- Rolled up paper, money, straws, small metal pipes, empty pen cases, or other hollow tubes
- Pieces of broken glass or razor blades
- Plastic cards
- Needles or syringes
- Cotton balls
- Rubber tubing
The Symptoms of Using
The body and brain is affected by the drug. Whenever a person is high on ice, you may notice symptoms, such as:
- Extreme sweating
- Nosebleeds
- Dilated pupils
- Sores on the skin
- Itching
- Twitching
- Paranoia
- Fidgeting
The average person suffering from methamphetamine addiction is male, and between 23 and 40 years of age. However, anyone can become addicted to the drug. If you have noticed the aforementioned signs of an addiction to ice or any paraphernalia lying around, they will likely need to see a professional for help.
Long Term Effects
If an addiction to ice is not addressed, and the abuse continues, long term health consequences can result. These include, but are not limited to:
- Liver failure
- Kidney failure
- Cardiovascular problems
- Infection
- Malnutrition
- Birth defects (when a user is pregnant)
- Infertility
- Cognitive impairment
- Overdose and/or death
- Overdosing on Ice
Just as it is important to know the signs of an addiction to ice, it is also important to recognise the signs of an overdose. When a person consumes too much meth, or ice, at one time, their body may struggle to cope with the amount; therefore, resulting in an overdose. If an ice overdose is not treated promptly, it could be fatal. There are many different signs of an overdose to lookout for, including:
- Irregular breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Seizure
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Extreme agitation
- Extreme anxiety
- High body temperature
- Extreme perspiration
If you notice someone appearing to be overdosing on meth, or any other drug, you should not delay in calling your local emergency service. An overdose can usually be treated; however, there is a chance of having long lasting, or permanent, side effects. Overdosing on a drug is a sign of abuse or dependency. It is critical that help is sought to avoid another overdose.
Conclusion
By now you should have a better understanding of ice addiction signs. If you believe you know someone who exhibits these signs and they have either asked you for help, or you would like to approach them about getting treatment, take time to review the options ahead of time. If you would like further help and assistance about how to do this, please call Siam Rehab.
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