Sheriff Gobble: Meth Is Poison

  • Thursday, August 27, 2009
  • Sheriff Tim Gobble

Methamphetamine ~ also known as “speed,” “crank,” “crystal,” or “ice” ~ is a highly addictive drug that is accessible and affordable in far too many communities across America, including our own. It directly affects the nervous system and the cardiovascular system and, with continued use, can cause irreversible damage to the liver, lungs and even the brain.

Meth is so addictive because the energetic high it produces is followed by a powerful crash, that, depending on how long a person has been using the drug, includes weariness, depression, paranoia, irritability, hallucinations and violent behavior.

With continued use, the body develops stronger tolerance levels, which requires a greater dosage of the drug in order to achieve or sustain the original high, as well as to avoid the depression and sense of sorrow that follows a crash. Because the body acclimates to the drug so quickly, full blown addiction can occur within a relatively short period of time.

Incredibly, the ingredients of meth in its different forms are largely nothing more than a variety of poisons: hydriodic acid from the heads of matches (which can corrode steel), iodine, Drano, brake fluid, lighter fluid, hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, ether, anhydrous ammonia, gasoline, battery acid, paint thinner and kerosene.

The effects of meth abuse can include brain damage, hypertension, irregular heartbeat, inflamed heart, stroke, hyperthermia, malnutrition, impaired speech, sleeplessness, dry skin, meth mouth (gum disease, tooth decay, broken teeth), convulsions and a weakened immune system. Women who use meth during pregnancy are more likely to have premature babies, or babies who are born with neurological complications and other health problems.

While meth is considered affordable, a user or an addict will soon realize that the $50 and $100 bags quickly add up. It is not unusual for a user to have spent anywhere from $500 to $1,000 within a period of several months. This is the reason so many addicts resort to crime. They simply cannot support the habit financially.

Illegal drug use destroys lives, families and careers, as well as feeding crime. I urge everyone to avoid contact with any illegal drugs. If you haven’t begun using drugs, please don’t. If you are involved with illegal drugs, please stop.

If you are experiencing addiction or if you are struggling with a drug problem, seek help. You can get help through your school counselor, your pastor or youth pastor, your doctor or any number of community agencies. Meth and other illegal drugs like it are a cancer to the body and soul of a community.

Visit the BCSO on-line at: www.bradleysheriff.com, or write: 2290 Blythe Ave., SE, Cleveland 37311. Email me personally: comments@bradleysheriff.com or call 728-7321.

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