Key Points
Odors Associated With Meth
Major Characteristics of a Meth User
Signs of a Contamination
What to Do if You Suspect Meth Exposure
Methamphetamine, also commonly referred to as meth, is one of the most addictive, potent, and dangerous illegal stimulant drugs in the US. As homemade meth labs continue to prevail in remote areas of the country, many chemical variations of the drugs have made their way to the streets illegally.
In general, methamphetamine is the amphetamine stimulant cut, mixed, or manufactured with other additives. The full list of what these additives are can be neverending in some cases. Dealers or DIY clandestine labs can and will use nearly any chemical available to them. Some of the common ones include lithium metals, iodine, baking soda, brake cleaner, over-the-counter cold medicine, battery acid, drain cleaner, ammonia, and more.
With so many chemicals and many labs operating in plain sight under sketchy conditions, it’s very reasonable to be concerned if you suspect a neighbor or a loved one is using or manufacturing meth. As a meth lab decontamination company of over 20 years, a lot can be determined by trusting your nose. Oftentimes, if a loved one or a neighbor is using or running a lab, you can tell by the smell.
Odors Associated With Meth
The odors associated with meth range greatly, making it hard at times to pinpoint what could be a problem from what is actually a problem. In general, meth produces a distinct smell that can range from:
- Chemical Odor
- Sweet Odor
- Bitter Odor
- Burnt Odor
The type of compound can affect the odor. For instance, when manufactured with ammonia strong, pungent smells similar to cleaning products may be detected. However, when acetone is used in the process the odor may actually be sweet and fruity. Depending on the stage, there may be burnt odors in the cooking process.
In general, it’s hard to detect by odor alone. It’s also wise to pay attention to overall behaviors. Any signs of suspicious behaviors or signs of addiction should be taken seriously.
Major Characteristics of a Meth Addiction
Drug addiction, or a substance abuse disorder, can affect anyone at any point in their life. It’s an unfortunate fact that all kinds of people, from all different socioeconomic backgrounds, are prone to developing a substance abuse problem. If you suspect your loved one is battling an addiction, there are several characteristics you should be on the lookout for:
- School or work related performance issues, including excessive absenteeism.
- Neglecting personal hygiene or exhibiting a lack of regard for personal appearance or grooming.
- Change in personality or behavior; may act aggressively, defensively, or suspiciously around friends and family
- Depression
- Reckless unexplainable spending
- Changes in appetite (decreased appetite and marked weight loss)
- Bloodshot eyes
According to the American Addiction Center, 17% admitted to using illicit drugs such as methamphetamine during their lifetime.
Signs of a Contamination
Drug use is one thing; a home operation manufacturing methamphetamine is another. Don’t write off the chance that a family member, roommate, or neighbor might be running a meth lab near your premises. Here’s a few signs you may have been unknowingly exposed to a meth contamination:
- Watery, burning eyes
- Chest pain or an irritated respiratory system
- Moderate to severe headaches after entering certain rooms
- Chronic sneezing, coughing, and congestion not explained by illness
- Pain and diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Brain fog
Other symptoms may include dark colored urine and even hallucinations.
Call Us if You Suspect Meth Exposure
Bio Recovery has been in the business of decontaminating meth labs for over 20 years. With a network of specialists all over the contigious United States, call us right away should you suspect you’ve been exposured. These situations are serious and should not be taken lightly.
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