Children who grow up around crystal meth suffer the usual neglect and abuse found in many drug-abusing homes. However, the toxicity of meth labs presents another significant danger to children. Methamphetamine, a highly addictive stimulant, is an illegal drug manufactured by combining extremely toxic chemicals. Methamphetamine hydrochloride, referred to as crystal meth, resembles chunky ice-like crystals that are inhaled or smoked.
Prenatal Exposure
A fetus exposed to crystal meth can suffer a stroke or brain hemorrhage caused by a quick rise in the blood pressure and temperature of its brain. Crystal meth also can damage other fetal organs. Infants who were prenatally exposed to meth are likely to be much smaller than normal and are often lethargic, irritable and might have difficulty feeding.
Neglect and Abuse
Children whose caregivers use, manufacture or distribute crystal meth are at risk of being abused or neglected. The children's nutritional needs usually are not met and they might witness violence or be victimized by violence or sexual abuse. They can suffer behavioral and mental health problems as a result of abuse and neglect. Many end up in foster care when child welfare agencies are forced to take them into protective custody.
Exposure to Toxic Chemicals
Children in homes where meth labs operate are at high risk for medical problems caused by exposure to the toxic chemicals used to make meth. Fires and explosions in meth labs cause burn damage to skin and lungs and can result in death. Children with meth poisoning have a rapid heartbeat, agitation, irritability, vomiting and can experience inconsolable crying. The fumes cause headaches, and irritation of the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. Poisonous gases can cause respiratory arrest. Children might consume contaminated food, causing more exposure to the chemicals.
Drug Use or Ingestion
Children in homes where drug use is common are at risk of using drugs and becoming addicted to drugs. Parents sometimes give the children drugs to make them sleep. Test results on children exposed to meth in the home often resemble those of a drug user. However, further tests might be needed to determine if a child is actually using crystal meth. Children who are lethargic, sleepy and experiencing mood swings or unusual behavior should have further testing. Withdrawal symptoms in a child resemble those experienced by adults.
Behavioral and Developmental Problems
Children exposed to crystal meth experience problems as a direct result to their experiences in a drug-using home. They might have developmental or cognitive problems requiring years of special services. Emotionally, the children often suffer depression, shame, worry and guilt. They often have difficulty trusting people and problems socializing with peers. The children might withdraw and prefer to be alone or they might have eating disorders and have difficulty adjusting to change.
