Although crystal meth users feel attractive, confident and capable while under the drug's effects, in reality, the effects of abuse are devastating. Crystal meth, or methamphetamine, is a potent, highly-addictive central nervous system stimulant made in illicit laboratories. Abusers snort, inject, smoke or ingest the drug, which produces a pleasurable initial rush followed by euphoria, alertness and increased energy that lasts several hours. The effects of crystal meth on the body are numerous and exceedingly severe.
Severe Tooth Decay
The tooth decay caused by crystal meth abuse--called "meth mouth"--can happen rapidly, and is especially serious. Meth users often have rotting, black and crumbling teeth that are beyond salvaging. Although the exact cause of meth mouth is not known, it is suspected that long periods spent under the drug's influence result in neglected oral hygiene; teeth grinding and attempts to relieve dry mouth with sugary drinks are also contributing factors. Corrosive chemicals used in the manufacture of the drug may also play a part, according to Frontline.
Brain Damage
Crystal meth damages the brain. It causes addiction, resulting in cravings and compulsive abuse of the drug. Addicts develop symptoms of mental disturbance such as confusion, anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations and violent behavior that can last for months or years after use of the drug is stopped, the National Institute on Drug Abuse says. Changes in the structure of the brain from chronic crystal meth abuse have been documented on imaging studies, according to NIDA. These changes result in alterations in brain chemicals, or neurotransmitters, especially in dopamine, causing impaired ability to learn, movement disorders, altered emotional responses and impaired memory. Some of these changes, but not all, have been shown to be reversible after prolonged abstinence. Crystal meth can also cause strokes, which can lead to permanent brain damage.
Rapid Aging
Crystal meth abusers develop a strikingly aged look. Small blood vessels that supply the skin with oxygen and nutrients are damaged, and the resulting decreased circulation and loss of elasticity results in pale, grayish skin, sagging and wrinkles. Users commonly have multiple skin sores due to obsessive skin picking caused by the sensation of crawling bugs. Rapid weight loss, malnutrition and missing teeth also contribute to the aged appearance. Crystal meth abusers can look decades older than they really are, according to Deputy Brett King, from Oregon's Multnomah County Sheriff's Department, as reported by Frontline. Healthy young people who had their whole lives ahead of them were seemingly reduced to "a shell of what they once were," King said.
