Signs and Symptoms
Identifying Alcohol Drug Abuse Signs and Symptoms
Both behavioral and physical signs indicate alcohol drug abuse. Each drug type contains its own set of side effects, signs and symptoms.
There are some general alcohol drug abuse signs and symptoms that you can use to determine whether or not someone you know has a substance abuse problem:
* Withdrawal from friends and family
* Mood swings: going from depressed or grumpy to happy or euphoric
* Lack of personal hygiene
* Congested, runny or sniffy nose
* Drastic change in behavior
* Glassy or red eyes
* Loss of interest or involvement in favorite activities, sports or hobbies
We have also composed a list of drug specific signs and symptoms. Remember if you suspect that someone you know is abusing drugs or alcohol, Ocean Breeze Recovery can help you properly diagnosis this person and get them the help they need. Call 1-855-627-7700.
The following list contains substance specific addiction signs and symptoms:
Alcohol Effects:
*Slowed motor coordination, relaxed muscles, poor judgment, slow, disorientation, slurred speech, sudden outbursts of anger, decreased inhibition, loud or talkative, lethargy, staggering
Prescription Drug Effects, Painkiller Effects:
* Nausea, dizziness, constipation, dryness of mouth, flushing, hallucinations, scratching and lethargy
Anxiety or Benzodiazepine Effects, Prescription Drug Effects:
* Drowsiness, bladder problems, dizziness, agitation, nightmares, blurred vision, sexual problems, weight gain, constipation, dry mouth, heart palpitations and headaches
Cocaine Effects:
* Anxious, depressed, confused, paranoia, loss of appetite, talkative, irritability, sleeplessness, decreased sex drive, scratching, panic attacks, short tempered, dilated pupils, hallucinations, awkward jaw movement, ability to drink more alcohol than normal
Heroin Effects:
*”Nodding” – dream like state where a person is near sleep or drifting off. In long time heroin addicts the drug acts like a stimulant where they can carry on with a normal routine and seem to have more energy on the drug. For others, heroin leaves them completely immobile.
LSD Effects:
* Loss of coordination, euphoria, laughter, hallucinations, false sense of power, dilated pupils, skin discoloration, paranoia, anxiety, self-destructive behavior, nausea, vomiting and panic
For assistance in determining whether someone you know is abusing alcohol or other illicit drugs, contact Ocean Breeze Recovery at 1-855-627-7700.
