Drug use, regardless of the substance, can have a major impact on the user’s life. The use of drugs is a serious issue that should not be ignored. This problem will not go away on its own. If you are the one with the problem or you are attempting to help a loved one, it is best to start on the path to recovery as soon as possible.
Signs of Drug AddictionFrequent nosebleeds Intranasal drug abuse can lead to frequent nosebleeds and irritation in the sinus region. In extreme cases , full collapse of septum is possible.
Changes in sleep patterns Opioids, stimulants, and other drugs can cause an adverse effect on sleeping patterns; sleeping for abnormally long periods of time and the opposite, lack of sleep.
Changes in appetite Varying from drug to drug there can be wide swings in appetite. Marijuana is known to increase appetite, cocaine and methamphetamine's are known to decrease appetite.
Mood Swings Sudden mood swings are a tell tale sign of addiction. Irritability can occur when withdrawal symptoms and "highs" come into play.
Dilated / Constricted Pupils Pupils in the eyes may appear extremely dilated at times or vice versa, constricted depending on the drug being abused.
Chronic Dishonesty Addicts who suffer from long term abuse of a drug may begin a pattern of chronic dishonesty, lying about things they don't even have to lie about.
Signs of Drug AbuseIf left untreated, drug abuse can develop into drug dependency. Subsequently, it is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of drug abuse.
Physical Signs of Drug Abuse
Signs of Drug AddictionFrequent nosebleeds Intranasal drug abuse can lead to frequent nosebleeds and irritation in the sinus region. In extreme cases , full collapse of septum is possible.
Changes in sleep patterns Opioids, stimulants, and other drugs can cause an adverse effect on sleeping patterns; sleeping for abnormally long periods of time and the opposite, lack of sleep.
Changes in appetite Varying from drug to drug there can be wide swings in appetite. Marijuana is known to increase appetite, cocaine and methamphetamine's are known to decrease appetite.
Mood Swings Sudden mood swings are a tell tale sign of addiction. Irritability can occur when withdrawal symptoms and "highs" come into play.
Dilated / Constricted Pupils Pupils in the eyes may appear extremely dilated at times or vice versa, constricted depending on the drug being abused.
Chronic Dishonesty Addicts who suffer from long term abuse of a drug may begin a pattern of chronic dishonesty, lying about things they don't even have to lie about.
Signs of Drug AbuseIf left untreated, drug abuse can develop into drug dependency. Subsequently, it is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of drug abuse.
Physical Signs of Drug Abuse
- Bloodshot eyes
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Changes in appetite
- Seizures with no history of epilepsy
- Unusual smells
- Deterioration in physical appearance
- Shakes or tremors
- Sudden mood changes
- Irritability
- Unexplained personality changes
- Lack of motivation
- Appearing anxious or fearful
- Poor attendance at school or work
- No longer interested in extracurricular activities
- Unexplained financial trouble
- Complaints from teachers, co-workers, or others in the person’s life
- Withdrawn behavior
- Frequent trouble with others
- Tolerance. Is the person able to use drugs more often without feeling the same effect?
- Withdrawal symptoms. As the person stops using the drug, he or she may be faced with withdrawal symptoms. These can include but are not limited to anxiety, sweating, nausea, insomnia, and depression among others.
- Desire to stop but unable to achieve success.
- Continued use even though it is harming their body. Even when people realize the drugs they are taking are having a negative impact, they continue to use them.
