Chest Pain & Heart Problems From Smoking Meth

As an illicit and potent amphetamine drug, crystal meth can cause lasting mental and physical injury when abused, including chest pain related to severe cardiovascular effects, heart damage, and an increased risk of sudden death.

In fact, according to information published by the National Institute of Health in 2021, methamphetamine use rose more than 40% between 2015-2019, while stimulant overdose deaths almost tripled during the same period. 

And, in 2020, more than 20,000 Americans died from methamphetamine overdose.

Cardiovascular Effects Of Methamphetamine Abuse

The same cardiovascular effects that link meth use to chest pain also act as critical risk factors for cardiomyopathy (heart disease). These cardiovascular effects can include:

• vasoconstriction, a narrowing of the blood vessels 
• hypertension, or high blood pressure 
• long-term weakening of the heart muscle
• endocarditis, or inflammation of the heart valves (when meth is injected)
• lung injury and dysfunction (when meth is smoked)

Those who abuse methamphetamine may also face chronic malnutrition, sleep disorders, and high cholesterol. 

This blend of medical conditions puts those who abuse methamphetamine at a dramatically increased risk for sudden death due to heart attacks, total heart failure or cardiovascular collapse, and hemorrhagic strokes.

Effects Of Methamphetamine Abuse

When taken in high doses, methamphetamine forces neurons in the central nervous system to release high levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, resulting in a long-lasting, euphoric, and addictive stimulant high.

Other short-term side effects of using methamphetamine can include:

• dry mouth
• nausea
• dizziness
• headache
• increased wakefulness
• high energy level
• decreased appetite
• rapid heart rate
• irregular heart rhythms or palpitations
• increased blood pressure
• increased respiration
• increased body temperature

Methamphetamine Overdose

A drug overdose occurs whenever a person’s use of a drug causes harmful effects, including life-threatening medical emergencies or death. 

In the case of methamphetamine, overdoses can occur either when a person takes too much of the drug at once, or when the drug builds up in the body after long-term use.

The symptoms of a meth overdose may be hard to distinguish before they become critical, and can include:

• severe stomach pain or chest pain
• breathing problems or shortness of breath
• high or low blood pressure
• overheating
• kidney failure
• confusion
• loss of consciousness
• erratic or violent behavior
• psychosis, including delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations
• sudden death from heart attack, seizures, or stroke

If meth is combined with other drugs, including alcohol and opioids, the risk of overdose and sudden death significantly increases.

Recovering From Meth-Related Cardiovascular Damage

Unfortunately, the full effects of methamphetamine on a person’s heart are not easily reversed, and may be lifelong. However, the only way to control the damage and begin healing is to overcome meth addiction and begin the recovery process.

This is best accomplished through a personalized, evidence-based treatment program with services such as:

• medical detox
• dual diagnosis treatment for other contributing mental health disorders
• cognitive behavioral therapy
• contingency management programs
• participation in peer support programs
• aftercare support

If you or a loved one live with meth addiction and need help, please contact our helpline today for information on our addiction treatment options.