Drug use can manifest in various ways, often causing physical, behavioral, and psychological changes. While not everyone exhibits obvious signs, prolonged substance use typically leads to noticeable effects on a person’s appearance, motor functions, and overall health. Recognizing these warning signs can be crucial in identifying when your loved one may need help.
How Drugs Affect Physical Appearance
Chronic substance use can cause significant changes to people’s appearance – particularly their skin, teeth, and hair.
- Skin issues: Injection drug use can leave track marks, scarring, abscesses, and cellulitis due to repeated injections or missed veins. Methamphetamine use can lead to excessive skin picking, causing infections and scarring. Alcohol abuse may cause liver-related skin conditions like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) or spider angiomas (dilated blood vessels).
- Dental and oral health problems: Many drugs, including meth, stimulants, and opioids, cause severe tooth decay and gum disease. People on stimulants may grind their teeth, while opioids and alcohol often cause dry mouth, contributing to bacterial growth and tooth decay.
- Hair loss: Prolonged drug use can cause premature graying and hair loss due to extreme stress on the body. Some people also develop compulsive hair pulling in response to anxiety or distress.
Drug-Specific Physical Signs
Different substances produce distinct effects. Understanding these unique symptoms can help identify potential drug use.
Marijuana
- Bloodshot eyes and droopy eyelids
- Slowed reaction time and impaired coordination
- Increased appetite (“the munchies”)
- Forgetfulness and paranoia
Stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine, Adderall)
- Dilated pupils and rapid eye movement
- Excessive energy and hyperactivity
- Increased heart rate and heavy sweating
- Weight loss due to reduced appetite
- Teeth grinding or jaw clenching
Sedatives (Xanax, Valium, Ativan)
- Drowsiness and lethargy
- Dizziness and blurred vision
- Slow, slurred speech
- Poor coordination and balance
- Uninhibited or confused behavior
Hallucinogens (LSD, PCP, mushrooms)
- Dilated pupils and excessive sweating
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
- Muscle twitches or tremors
- Panic attacks or extreme calmness, depending on the drug
Opioids (heroin, prescription painkillers)
- Pinpoint pupils (extremely small)
- Drowsiness and slurred speech
- Slowed breathing and heart rate
- Constipation and gastrointestinal issues
- Flu-like withdrawal symptoms
Club Drugs (ecstasy, ketamine, GHB)
- Excessive sweating and clenched teeth
- Poor coordination and dizziness
- Slurred speech and confusion
- Increased body temperature
What to Do if You Notice These Warning Signs
If you suspect someone is struggling with drug use, approach the situation with care and concern.
- Observe and document patterns: Look for recurring physical and behavioral changes over time rather than a single instance.
- Express concern without judgment: Approach the person with empathy and avoid accusatory language.
- Educate yourself: Understanding substance use disorders can help you provide the right support.
- Encourage professional help: Suggest that your loved one seek guidance from addiction specialists, therapists, or a qualified treatment center like Ken Seeley Communities.
- Seek support for yourself: Dealing with a loved one’s addiction can be challenging, and family support groups or professional counseling can benefit you.
How Ken Seeley Communities Can Help
Ken Seeley Communities provides a compassionate and structured approach to addiction recovery. Our evidence-based treatment programs, including our unique five-year plan, emphasize long-term success and accountability. We are here to help your loved one heal. Reach out today if you recognize any of these physical signs in someone you care about. Recovery is possible, and no one has to face addiction alone.
