Meth and the Brain: Is Your Loved One in Danger of Cognitive Decline?

Overdose deaths are at a historic high in Bexar County, Texas, mostly due to methamphetamine use.

At San Antonio Recovery Center, we understand how the effects of meth use can impact your day-to-day life. We can help you navigate recovery from meth, other substances, and co-occurring disorders, regardless of how complex your situation may be.

How Meth Affects the Central Nervous System & Brain

Methamphetamine can have immediate and long-lasting consequences on the brain, central nervous system, and overall health.

The highly potent substance can quickly overstimulate your brain with dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin transporters that lead to:

• Short-term highs

• Long-term damage

From decreased white matter to reduced circulatory functions, many parts of the brain suffer damage from repeated use of Meth.

As a result, the brain may experience serious changes such as:

• Decreased white matter
• Damaged circulatory system
• Shortage of dopamine and serotonin

These side effects often lead to more than addiction. They can also cause short and long-term changes to your brain structure that may result in deficits in your thinking, motor skills, mood regulation, and much more.

Decreased White Matter Consequences of Chronic Meth Use

Decreased white matter is a known side effect of chronic meth use and can have far-reaching implications on your physical and mental well-being.

What is white matter?

White matter is composed of nerve fibers wrapped in a protective sheath called myelin. Chronic meth use can damage this fiber and reduce white matter, making it difficult for your brain to transmit signals efficiently.

What happens when white matter is decreased?

Reduced white matter can lead to problems with basic brain functions.

Decreased white matter in the brain can result in difficulty performing common activities, including:

• Completing complex, everyday tasks, such as:
  • Driving a car
  • Managing finances
  • Following directions
  • Learning new skills
  • Managing a daily schedule
• Regulating emotions, causing unprovoked mood swings or extreme anger and sadness.
• Processing information when trying to do simple things such as reading a book or following a conversation.

Damage to the Circulatory System of the Brain Due to Long-Term Meth Use

Meth use can damage the circulatory system of the brain, leading to serious health conditions that may include;

• A decreased supply of the oxygen and nutrient delivery needed for the brain to function well
• A higher risk of stroke, aneurysms, brain bleeds, and brain hemorrhages
• Increased blood pressure and heart problems

Compromised Dopamine and Serotonin Levels Due to Meth Use

Meth use impacts the brain’s key neurotransmitters responsible for regulating pleasure, motivation, and mood: dopamine and serotonin. This eventually leads to decreased levels of dopamine and serotonin. This condition, referred to as ”dopamine transporter reduction,” can lead to impaired motor and cognitive abilities.

Initially, the effects of meth cause an overwhelming release of chemicals in the brain that feel good at the time. Over time, though, it empties the “bank” of dopamine in your system, making it hard for the brain to produce and regulate more.

Neurotoxic Effects of Meth Use

Meth’s damaging effects on the brain’s central nervous system can lead to nerve cell damage and compromised brain function that result in:

• Cognitive impairment
• Memory loss
• Motor dysfunction
• Behavioral changes

Cognitive, Behavioral, & Psychological Effects of Meth Use

Studies have shown that chronic meth use may cause significant changes to structural and functional parts of the brain. These changes can affect judgment, problem-solving skills, emotional control, and even movement issues.

Judgment and Problem-Solving Impairment from Meth Use

Meth disrupts brain function in ways that can impair judgment and problem-solving skills.

For example, meth use can result in poor decision-making that leads to:

• Risky behaviors
• Trouble with complex problems
• Inability to imagine the consequences of your actions

Emotional Control Issues Related to Meth Use

Meth use can cause a plethora of emotional side effects, including:

• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Severe depression
• Mood disturbances and violent behavior
• Psychotic symptoms such as paranoia, visual and auditory hallucinations, and delusions

The emotional consequences of long-term meth use may last for months or years after a person has stopped using the substance.

Movement Issues Caused by Meth Use

Meth use can cause problems with movement issues such as:

• Chorea: Unpredictable and involuntary movements such as fast jerky movements that affect the face and body
• Tics: Involuntary vocalizations or movements that may include rapid and repeated head jerking, shoulder shrugging, blinking, throat clearing, grunting, or verbal repetitions
• Stereotypies: Unexplained movements and repetitive behaviors such as tapping, picking at the skin, and excessive scratching
• Tremors and convulsions

How to Find Treatment for Meth Addiction in San Antonio, Texas

Recovering from a meth use disorder can be a difficult and complicated road, but finding a rehab for meth addiction can open a path to recovery that might otherwise seem out of reach.

At San Antonio Recovery Center, we specialize in complex disorders, including meth use, substance use disorders, and mental health conditions. If you or your loved one are experiencing the effects of meth use or any substance disorder, we are here to help. Reach out to us today by calling 866-957-7885, or contact us through our website. 

Strength. Acceptance. Recovery. Community.