Methamphetamine is a potent, illegal stimulant drug. People who abuse meth may quickly develop a physical dependence or addiction. People with addiction typically require intensive treatment to stop using meth.

People who abuse meth may develop a range of short and long-term effects. Meth mites are one sign of meth abuse. People who abuse meth may experience the sensation of bugs crawling under the skin, causing them to pick and scratch their bodies. This can result in scabs or sores on the skin that can’t heal.

This article will explore what meth mites are and what causes them.

If you or someone you love struggles with meth abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our treatment and recovery support programs. Reach out with questions, to verify your insurance, or to schedule an appointment.

Meth Abuse and Addiction

Meth is a slang term for methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is an illegal, highly addictive stimulant drug. Other slang terms for meth include:

• Crystal meth
• Crank
• Shards
• Speed
• Hawaiian salt
• Ice
• L.A. Ice
• Hot Ice
• Shaved Ice
• Blue
• Stovetop
• White
• Zip

Illegal drug makers create methamphetamine in illicit labs by mixing household chemicals and medications. This process creates a potent and dangerous substance.

Users typically ingest meth by inhaling, smoking, or taking it by mouth. After someone ingests meth, it reaches the bloodstream and brain quickly.

The side effects of meth start quickly and include:

• Euphoria
• Elevated heart rate
• Increased energy
• Increased blood pressure
• Appetite loss

Meth use can also cause unwanted or dangerous side effects, including:

• Paranoia
• Delusions
• Aggression or violent behaviors
• Poor concentration
• Memory problems
• Loss of coordination
• Depression
• Confusion
• Anxiety
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
• Depression

Repeated meth use can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Long-term meth abuse can have serious, long-term side effects and health complications.

What are Meth Mites?

Meth abuse can cause serious, long-term complications, including:

• Severe dental problems and tooth decay (meth mouth)
• Lung damage
• Malnutrition or severe weight loss

Meth mites are another common long-term effect of meth addiction. Meth mites are not real insects. This term describes the irritating sensation of bugs crawling under the skin that some meth users experience.

Meth mites are a psychotic symptom of meth abuse. This symptom may be highly distressing and may prevent people from sleeping or functioning.

People may also scratch and pick at their skin extensively. Without proper wound care, these wounds may fail to heal properly, become infected, or cause significant, permanent scarring.

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What Causes Meth Mites?

Mental health and addiction experts believe there are several potential causes of meth mites. Here is an overview of what may cause this problem.

Formication hallucinations

Formication hallucinations can cause the sensation of bugs crawling on or under the skin. Several conditions cause this type of hallucination, including:

• Meth abuse
• Parkinson’s disease
• Certain prescription drug use
• Depression

People who abuse meth may experience intense itching sensations. This can reinforce the hallucination that there are bugs under their skin.

Restricted blood flow

Methamphetamine increases central nervous system (CNS) activity. It constricts blood vessels, which can reduce blood flow to the skin, which may result in itching and discomfort.[5]

Impaired immune system

Meth abuse can suppress the immune system. This may prevent open sores from healing properly. Wounds may become infected, which can lead to significant health problems.

The Risks of Meth Mites

Meth mites can cause severe damage to your skin and general health, including:

• Sleep deprivation
• Skin infections
• Open wounds that cannot heal
• Scarring

People who use meth and experience meth bugs may cause permanent scarring on their bodies. They may have impaired mental health and functioning from lack of sleep. They may also have serious infections that require medical treatment.

Meth addiction can cause serious, long-term complications. It is critical to seek treatment for meth addiction as soon as you recognize the signs.

Meth addiction treatment typically includes:

• Medical detox programs
• Behavioral therapies
• Mental health treatment
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Holistic therapies like exercise, mindfulness, and nutrition support
• Relapse prevention education
• Aftercare planning

Meth addiction can be challenging to overcome. Substance abuse treatment and ongoing support can help people have long-lasting recoveries from addiction and work toward a healthier future.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with meth abuse or addiction, find treatment and support at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists now to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Know the Risks of Meth
2. National Institute of Health (NIH): Neurologic manifestations of chronic methamphetamine abuse
3. MD Edge: Skin Manifestations May Signal Crystal Meth Use: Think ‘meth mites’ when patients are picking at their skin and think they have insects crawling on them.