Signs & Symptoms
This page was created to inform parents about the signs and symptoms
of drug abuse and alcoholism. Teenage years are a time during
which emotional, mental, and physical change are experienced,
however there are some surefire ways to know when your teen is
using or abusing drugs.
Signs and Symptoms: Alcohol
Teens using alcohol will usually smell like alcohol either on
their breath or through their pores. Other physical signs include
having a hard time focusing or staying on track during conversations
or activities, stumbling, falling over, laughing or expressing
other emotions at inappropriate times, and slurring their speech.
Behavior changes may include tardiness or unexcused absences at
school, blackouts and memory loss, deterioration in schoolwork
and other responsibilities, outbursts and increased irritability,
and problems staying clean and well-kept. Teens using alcohol
will often come home past curfew, sneak out, steal and lie in
order to cover up their alcohol consumption. Distancing themselves
from family and other ‘less daring’ friends can also be a sign
of alcohol use.
Signs and Symptoms: Marijuana
Physical signs of marijuana use may include bloodshot eyes and
unfamiliar odors on clothing and belongings. Behavioral changes
of marijuana users can be subtle but are likely to include changes
in eating patterns ( increased amounts and frequency) and sleeping
patterns ( napping or sleeping for extended periods of time).
Short term memory loss is also characteristic of marijuana use,
as well as being unable to determine time in a realistic manner.
Finding marijuana related paraphernalia including pipes, water
bongs, roach clips and lighters and burn marks in clothing and
possessions may also signify marijuana use. Marijuana users are
usually difficult to detect unless they are under the influence.
Signs and Symptoms: Stimulants
Stimulants include drugs such as methamphetamines (commonly known
as crystal meth or speed), crack and cocaine. Physical symptoms
include dryness in mouth, nose bleeds, oral fixation (licking
of lips, etc.), bad breath and dilated pupils. Frequent users
may possibly experience sinus problems and a constantly runny
nose. Stimulants can also cause high anxiety and changes in eating
and sleeping patterns.
Signs and Symptoms: Heroin
The physical signs of heroin use include restricting of pupils,
clammy or cold-feeling skin, as well as dramatic changes in weight
(loss) and physical appearance. Other symptoms of heroin use include
a slowing in breathing and depression. Heroin use and abuse almost
always results in addiction and can cause intravenous infection,
coma and death.
Signs and Symptoms: Ecstasy
Physical symptoms of ecstasy include sweating, fatigue, teeth
grinding, unusual eye movements (rapid movement and confusion),
paranoia and changes in body temperature. Ecstasy users usually
feel more affectionate and ‘loving’ when they are on the drug
and may own paraphernalia such as pacifiers and brightly colored
jewelry. Ecstasy can also cause users to become nauseous or vomit.
Sings and Symptoms: Inhalants
Inhalants are frequently used by teenagers and some physical symptoms
may include glossy-looking eyes, having a runny nose and also
having odor from the substance that they have been using. Many
popular inhalants are just household items including substances
such as whipping cream, paint bottles and cleaning agents. Items
such as these appearing in a teenager’s room along with soiled
rags may be an indication of inhalant use. Inhalant users also
may show signs of increased drowsiness or an inability to focus
for sustained periods of time.
ADULT DRUG REHAB
Nation wide drug treatment facility for men and women.
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FIND OUT MORE ABOUT DRUG ADDICTION
This site was created to inform the general public about the dangers
associated with a number of different types of drug addictions.
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out more
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