What Causes Meth Sores?

Methamphetamine is an illicit stimulant drug. It is highly addictive and very dangerous. People who abuse meth for even a short period can quickly develop a life-threatening dependence. Research from 2021 suggests that around 2.5 million people in the United States reported using meth in the previous year, making it one of the most commonly misused drugs in the country. 

Meth use can change how your body and brain work. These changes can make it very challenging for people to stop using meth. Meth use can cause serious short and long-term effects on a person’s mental and physical health. 

Meth sores are one common effect of the drug. People who use meth may develop sores or lesions that are prone to infection. This common side effect is one of the signs of meth use.

This article will explore how meth sores develop. You will learn:

• The effects and risks of meth use
• Why meth users develop sores
• How to treat meth mites
• How to recognize and treat meth use
• Where to find substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and recovery support

If you or a loved one requires treatment for SUD, you are not alone. Find effective treatment and compassionate support at Blue Star Recovery. Contact our treatment team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment. 

What is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine (meth) is a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant drug. Some people may call meth “crystal meth,” “ice,” and other slang terms. This dangerous drug can cause a range of medical and mental health side effects. 

People who use meth can quickly develop a dependence on it. Overcoming meth dependence can be very challenging. It is critical to seek comprehensive treatment to manage the emotional, behavioral, and physical effects of meth withdrawal. People must also receive ongoing treatment and support to prevent relapse. 

The Effects and Risks of Meth Abuse

Methamphetamine is a potent CNS stimulant. Meth use can cause short and long-term effects. Some potential short-term effects of meth include:

• Elevated energy
• Rapid heart rate
• Euphoria
• Appetite loss
• Increased blood pressure
• Aggression
• Anxiety
• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Loss of coordination
• Paranoia
• Memory problems
• Confusion
• Scratching and picking at the skin, which results in wounds

Regular meth use may cause someone to develop tolerance. People with tolerance must take larger doses of meth to get the desired effects. Over time, this may lead to physical dependence. 

Ongoing meth use can result in long-term physical and mental health complications. Long-term effects of meth use include:

• Severe dental problems (meth mouth)
• Malnutrition
• Severe weight loss
• Chronic runny nose
• Lung damage
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Lesions, scarring, abscesses, and other skin problems

It is critical to seek treatment for meth use as soon as possible. Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about our programs or to find the support you need. 

What are Meth Sores?

Meth sores are a physical symptom of methamphetamine use. They are wounds on the face, arms, or other areas of the body that occur when people scratch or pick at their skin. 

Addiction experts believe there are several potential causes of meth sores. Here is a closer look at this symptom of meth use. 

Meth mites

Meth can cause hallucinations of bugs crawling under the skin. Some people refer to this phenomenon as “meth mites.” While there are no real “bugs,” people may scratch or pick at their skin to relieve this unsettling sensation. This may cause open wounds and sores.

Reduced blood flow

Methamphetamine restricts blood vessels, resulting in poor blood flow to the skin’s surface. This can cause dry, scaly, or flaky patches that itch. People may scratch excessively, which can cause open wounds.

Sweat

Methamphetamine is water-soluble, meaning it is excreted in sweat, saliva, and urine. When someone sweats, the combination of meth and sweat can irritate the skin. This may result in lesions or sores. 

Weakened immune system

Methamphetamine can weaken the immune system, preventing wounds from healing. Sores and other wounds may remain open or become infected more easily. 

Meth sores are an indication that someone is using methamphetamine. Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about meth use or dependence. 

How to Treat Meth Sores

Meth sores can be uncomfortable and may lead to a serious, even life-threatening infection. Treatment for meth sores typically includes:

• Keeping the area clean
• Applying topical antibiotic ointments to prevent infection
• Seeking medical treatment, including IV antibiotics, for spreading infections

It is critical to seek treatment to address methamphetamine use as soon as you recognize the signs. Some signs of meth use include:

• Losing weight quickly
• Hallucinations
• Insomnia
• Agitation, aggression, or violent behaviors
• Skin scratching or picking
• Confusion
• Irritability
• Using larger amounts of methamphetamine
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using meth

People who use meth can quickly develop a life-threatening dependence. Seek substance use disorder treatment as soon as possible. 

Find Meth Addiction Treatment Now

If you or someone you love uses methamphetamine or other substances, you are not alone. Contact the Blue Star Recovery team to learn about our programs. Our intake specialists will answer your questions and guide you every step of the way to help you begin your recovery journey. Reach out today to get started toward your healthier future.

References:

1. Science Direct: Distribution of skin diseases among patients using methamphetamine
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Patterns and Characteristics of Methamphetamine Use Among Adults — United States, 2015–2018
3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
4. National Institute of Health (NIH): Neurological manifestations of chronic methamphetamine abuse