Can You Snort Meth? Side Effects, Treatment, & More

If you’re wondering, “Can you snort meth,” chances are you’re looking into different ways of consuming methamphetamine. While you might already know the dangers associated with methamphetamine use, you might have heard that snorting meth has fewer side effects and is even “safer.” It’s not, and this misconception has blindly led individuals down a path of addiction, worsened mental health, side effects, and serious health conditions.

Meth is an addictive central nervous system stimulant and Schedule II controlled substance in the US that’s led to 1.8 million people developing substance use disorders as of 2022. This article covers what you need to know about snorting meth, including its dangers and ways to treat meth addiction. 

Can You Snort Meth?

This is a case where possible should not be confused with advisable. Yes, it’s possible to snort meth. Unfortunately, it’s a common misconception that snorting meth is “gentler” and leads to fewer side effects, possibly allowing you to avoid addiction altogether. You may have even heard it said that snorting meth reduces the risk of overdose. All of these beliefs are completely false.

In reality, meth is both powerful and dangerous regardless of how it’s consumed, whether it’s snorting, smoking, swallowing, or injecting. What’s more, snorting meth can create additional dangers that go beyond the long-lasting effects of smoking or injecting meth.

Unfortunately, someone snorting meth may be using it under the false belief that their usage isn’t “that bad” because they are not injecting the substance, bringing up how at least they’re not damaging their skin or veins. A person may feel that their addiction isn’t as severe as someone who consumes meth using other methods. This can be a barrier to treatment. It can also cause a person to ignore potentially serious side effects that are tied to meth use. The fact that snorting induces a euphoric feeling different than the faster, more intense high caused by injecting or smoking meth can also cause meth users to believe they are doing less damage to their bodies.

If you or a loved one is struggling with coming to terms with addiction, try taking our brief addiction treatment quiz.

Read more: What Is Speedballing?

What Are The Side Effects of Snorting Meth?

Meth changes how the brain works and also speeds up the body’s central nervous system to potentially lethal levels. This drug increases heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Consuming meth in any capacity can have detrimental effects. In addition to causing addiction and health adversities, meth consumption can result in death.

When using meth, a person may enter a euphoric state that is characterized by heightened senses, alertness, and energy. The reason for this feeling is meth’s impact on dopamine levels. While dopamine is a naturally occurring chemical that helps to control the body’s motivation and reward receptors, meth increases dopamine output unnaturally. Common short-term and long-term side effects of meth include:

• Brain damage
• Heart damage
• Increased blood pressure
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Loss of appetite
• Sleep disturbances
• Paranoia
• Aggressive or violent behavior
• Mood disturbance
• Hallucinations
• Dental problems
• High blood pressure
• Heart attack and stroke
• Intense itching that results in skin sores
• Premature osteoporosis
• Liver and kidney damage
• Lung damage

Snorting Meth Damages Your Nose

When snorting meth, a person takes on additional risks above these baseline risks. Snorting any drug causes the drug to be absorbed into soft, porous mucus membranes that line the inside of the nose. Repeated snorting can cause the tissue lining the inside of the nose to become dry, irritated, and sensitive.

Typically, someone regularly snorting meth will experience chronic and recurrent bloody noses, runny noses, and sinus infections that can be extremely painful. In some instances, snorting meth can lead to extreme nasal damage, as one case study reported a 46-year-old woman experiencing nasal septum perforation and necrosis after habitually snorting meth for three years. 

If you or a family member is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, talk to an addiction specialist today. 

Read more: 4 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Hot Rail Meth

How to Treat Meth Addiction

Meth can have a powerful grip on a person’s entire life, affecting everyone and everything around them. You’re wondering how to move toward a life without substance abuse for yourself or a loved one. Due to the highly addictive nature of methamphetamines, it’s important to sign up for a program that combines structured schedules, evidence-based therapy methods, and holistic healing modalities. Look for programs that offer,

• Structured programs that can focus on long-term addictions, such as residential or partial hospitalization treatment. 
• Evidence-based therapy programs, such as CBT, EMDR, DBT, and ACT.
• Holistic healing modalities include holotropic breathwork, yoga, adventure therapy, and acupuncture.
• Additional support programs include medical detox, aftercare, alum outreach, and family counseling. 

Meth Addiction Treatment In Asheville, NC

The first step to recovering from a meth addiction is recognizing that all forms of meth use are substance abuse. A person who is snorting meth may be in denial regarding their behaviors because they are operating under the false belief that snorting meth isn’t as bad as injecting or smoking it. In reality, a person is just as likely to become dependent on meth when snorting it. 

Oasis Recovery Center provides addiction treatment in Asheville, North Carolina, to anyone struggling with meth use. We offer a comprehensive approach to treating meth addiction that incorporates the mind, body, and spirit. Call today, and one of our friendly admissions agents can help you get started. You can also request a free and private callback.