Here’s What Happens To The Body During Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

Methamphetamine, commonly known as ‘meth,’ is a powerful and illicit stimulant drug. While many consider it pleasurable, it has dangerous effects―from feeling energized to chaotic behavior―and has wide usage despite being illegal. Regular use of Methamphetamine can significantly and even devastatingly impact the brain, leading to critical changes with severe physical and mental health implications.

Additionally, psychological dependence and tolerance are too common among meth users, many of whom experience immeasurable mental anguish when trying to stop.

When someone stops using meth, they may experience a range of meth withdrawal symptoms that can be physically and mentally challenging. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common meth withdrawal symptoms and their effects on the body.

Intense Cravings

An initial and enduring symptom of meth withdrawal is an intense yearning for the drug, which can cause people to relapse for relief. The reason for these intense cravings is how meth impacts the brain’s reward system.

Meth use floods the brain with dopamine, creating a euphoric high. As a result, when someone stops using the drug, their brain’s natural dopamine levels plummet, causing them to crave the substance that once provided that pleasurable sensation.

Dehydration

Dehydration is another of the common meth withdrawal symptoms. Dependence on Meth leads to disregarding basic needs like water consumption resulting in dehydration.

Furthermore, sweating and increased urination causing fluid loss are other effects of this drug. The body requires plenty of water and electrolytes to recover and hydrate quickly during withdrawal.

Exhaustion

Meth withdrawal symptoms also include extreme exhaustion. Meth is a powerful stimulant that can keep users awake for extended periods, sometimes even days. Consequently, when someone stops using meth, their body is often in desperate need of rest.

Following meth use and during withdrawal, extensive sleep tends to facilitate the body’s healing efforts to repair related damage. This tiredness can be considerable and persist for durations, ranging from several days to weeks, based on the intensity of the addiction.

Sweating

Excessive sweating is another typical symptom of meth withdrawal. Meth can cause sweating as the body tries to cool down from increased body temperature.

Stopping meth use can cause sweating, associated with varying body temperature, especially during withdrawal. Drinking fluids and wearing breathable clothing are helpful to alleviate these symptoms and avoid dehydration.

Hallucinations

Meth withdrawal symptoms can also include hallucinations, both visual and auditory. These hallucinations are often a result of the brain’s chemical imbalance caused by meth use.

During withdrawal, the brain may undergo vivid hallucinations – often unpleasant. But the critical thing to note is that these are temporary and will dissipate as the brain continues to heal.

Flu-like Symptoms

Withdrawal signs from meth may cause flu-like symptoms, resulting from the body’s response to the absence of the drug. Below are some of these symptoms in detail.

• Fever: When undergoing meth withdrawal, one may experience an elevated body temperature or fever, which indicates the body’s response to thwart infections or inflammation. Taking over-the-counter fever reducers, for instance, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can relieve such symptoms while resting and staying hydrated remain crucial.
• Chills: Chills are often experienced alongside fever, causing the individual to feel cold and shiver. This is another way the body tries to regulate its temperature. Wear layers of clothing to manage chills and use blankets to maintain warmth. Drinking warm fluids like tea or broth can also help provide comfort.
• Muscle Aches: Meth withdrawal can cause muscle aches and pains due to the body’s increased sensitivity and inflammation. Gentle stretching, warm baths, and heating pads can help soothe aching muscles. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also provide temporary relief.
• Headaches: Headaches are a common symptom during meth withdrawal, resulting from tension, dehydration, or changes in blood pressure. To alleviate headaches, ensure proper hydration, practice relaxation techniques, and consider using over-the-counter pain relief medications.
• Nasal Congestion: Some individuals may experience nasal congestion during meth withdrawal, similar to cold or flu symptoms. Using saline nasal sprays or a humidifier can help relieve congestion and improve breathing.
• Sore Throat: A sore throat can occur during meth withdrawal due to irritation, inflammation, or post-nasal drip. Gargling with warm salt water, using throat lozenges, and drinking warm fluids can help soothe a sore throat.
• Fatigue: As the body works to detoxify and recover from meth use, fatigue and lethargy may be experienced. Ensure adequate rest and sleep to support the body’s healing process. Light exercise, such as walking or stretching, can also help improve energy levels.

It is important to remember that these flu-like symptoms are temporary and will gradually subside as the body continues to detoxify and heal from meth use. If symptoms become severe or persistent, seeking medical attention for proper evaluation and treatment is crucial.

Sleep Issues

Sleep disturbances are a common issue during meth withdrawal. Insomnia, nightmares, and restless leg syndrome may occur as the body tries to adjust to the absence of the stimulant. Poor sleep can exacerbate other withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability, and depression. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and practicing relaxation techniques can help improve sleep quality during this challenging time.

Increased Appetite

During meth withdrawal, individuals may experience an increased appetite as their body attempts to recover from the drug’s effects. Meth use often suppresses appetite, leading to malnutrition and weight loss.

As the body detoxifies, it may crave more food to replenish lost nutrients and energy. It is essential to focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins, to support the body’s healing process. Regular, smaller meals throughout the day can help manage hunger and promote overall health.

Paranoia

Paranoia is another common symptom experienced during meth withdrawal. The chemical imbalances caused by meth use can lead to extreme distrust, fear, and suspicion, even when no real threat exists. This heightened paranoia can be distressing for the individual and may contribute to social isolation during withdrawal.

Recognizing that these feelings are temporary and will subside as the brain continues to heal is crucial. Seeking support from trusted friends, family members, or mental health, professionals can help alleviate paranoia and provide a safe space for the individual to share their experiences.

Meth Withdrawal Symptoms Demystified: What Every Recovering Addict Needs to Know

Meth withdrawal symptoms can be extremely physically and mentally challenging. However, they are temporary and will diminish as the body recuperates.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of meth withdrawal can improve the prospects for a successful recovery, contributing to better lives. We hope that you found this informative.