Addiction Signs & Symptoms
A look into the major signs & symptoms of addiction.
Since substance abuse is, by its nature, a chemical dependency of the body.
If you’re under the suspicion that someone in your life is struggling with addiction, it’s important to pay attention to the observable signs. Watch for physical cues and behavioral changes that may alert youto a potentially dangerous or unhealthy situation. While the signs and symptoms of drug addiction vary depending on the substance being abused, many symptoms are universal and encompass all types of substance abuse.
Since substance abuse is, by its nature, a chemical dependency of the body, certain physical reactions are common and notable. These include:
- Increase or decrease in appetite
- Change in eating habits
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Cold, sweaty palms
- Tremors
- Discernable substance odors on breath or clothing
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Excessive sweating
- Bloodshot eyes
- Irregular heartbeat
- Increase or decrease in blood pressure
- Excessive compulsive talking
- Hyperactivity
- Needle marks on arms and legs
- Etc
Not all chemical dependencies display obvious physical symptoms. The experience is largely psychological as well.
Psychological Signs of Drug Addiction:
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Bizarre or erratic behavior
- Paranoia
- Unexplained giddiness
- Lack of motivation and energy
- Forgetfulness
- Temper tantrums
Other Signs of Drug Addiction:
- Drop in school or work performance
- Truancy
- Loss of interest in family
- Car accidents or excessive high risk behavior
- Lying
- Stealing
- A change in grooming habits
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Wearing long sleeve shirts, etc in warm weather
- Excessive need for privacy
Consider seeking professional advice is the signs habitual or are becoming are excessive.
Signs of Drug Addiction by Substance Type
Some of these behaviors are subtle and several factors should be considered when determining whether or not you should be concerned about your loved one. If you notice any of these signs or symptoms to a significant degree of expression in someone in your life, it may be time to consult a professional addiction recovery specialist.
Drugs elicit different symptoms based on the chemical reaction they induce in the body. Sometimes an addictive substance can be determined by their specific symptoms.
HEROIN Sedation, depression, constipation, slow breathing and reduced sense of pain are all signs of heroin addicition.
CLUB DRUGS
Reduced inhibitions, an exaggerated feeling of well-being, memory problems amd drowsiness.
COCAINE
Decreased appetite, rapid speech, nasal congestion, increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.
MARIJUANA Poor memory, increased appetite, paranoid thinking, slow reaction time.
ALCOHOL Redness of the nose and cheeks, blackouts, weight loss, sore or upset stomach.
BARBITURATES Drowsiness, slurred speech, lack of coordination, impaired memory and dizziness.
HALLUCINOGENS Rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, tremors, and hallucinations.
