All forms of meth use are dangerous and can be potentially life-threatening. Hot railing meth refers to a specific route of administration where an individual inhales the drug via vapor through the nose.
Although some people assume that intravenous meth use is the most harmful method, hot railing also comes with serious risks. Both short-term and long-term use can be problematic. Let’s get into what you need to know.
What Is Hot Railing Meth?
Meth is an illicit stimulant that can be used in many forms. People typically inject or smoke the substance.
In addition, some people use meth by vaporizing the substance. They will typically heat the end of a glass pipe. Then, they place this end over a line or bump. The heat will vaporize the meth, and then the individual will snort that meth.
This method is fast- it only takes about 7-10 seconds to feel the effects of the drug. The overall high from meth can last anywhere from 8-24 hours, with 50% of the drug being removed from the system in 12 hours. It’s not uncommon for people to binge on meth to keep the effects lasting longer.
The immediate, short-term effects of hot railing meth include:
- An intensified rush of euphoria (known as the “high”).
- Heightened feelings of alertness or concentration.
- Sweating and feeling hot.
- Loss of appetite.
- Increased wakefulness (lack of desire to sleep)
- Nausea, vomiting, or other gastrointestinal problems.
- Engaging in repetitive tasks.
- Paranoia or disorganized thinking.
- Impulsive behavior.
- Irritability and agitation.
Over time, chronic meth use can be debilitating for individuals and their loved ones. A consistent lack of sleep or proper nutrition often wrecks havoc on the body. Many people struggle with severe mood swings and unpredictable, bizarre behavior. They may stop functioning appropriately at school, work, or in their relationships.
What Can Happen if I Hot Rail Meth?
People might opt for hot railing meth because they perceive it to be safer or more effective. But snorting meth (or any drug) has inherent risks, and it’s essential to be aware of them.
Nasal Problems
Even just a few instances of snorting drugs can cause serious nasal issues, including blockages, swelling in the inner linings, and problems with respiratory tracts.
Chronic snorting effects come with even more severe risks. The nose can become permanently damaged by septum holes, inflammation, or infection. Membrane damage may result in the nose being unable to humidfiy air properly. Over time, this issue can cause respiratory problems, ultimately cutting off needed blood supply to the nose.
Furthermore, the nose segues into the lungs. Therefore, problems with the nose can undoubtedly trigger issues in the lungs and other parts of the body. Snorting meth can put you at risk for irreversible lung damage.
Contamination
Drug contamination can happen either actively or passively. Directly handling drugs, touching exposed surfaces, or sharing items heightens the risk.
Sharing drug paraphernalia, such as glass pipes, may cause Hepatitis C or HIV infection. That’s because contamination can occur through the exchange of bodily fluids or blood, which may be present on such items.
Addiction
Some people falsely assume that certain routes of administration prevent addiction. Or, they might justify that using a drug in a particular way means they don’t have a problem. For example, they may believe that IV use is characteristic of a “real addiction.”
However, it doesn’t matter how you use the drug. Meth is undoubtedly a powerful substance, and it’s easy to develop a tolerance to its effects. Similarly, you might keep using it to avoid unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Over time, progressive use can result in serious physical and emotional consequences.
Overdose
Any meth use can result in an overdose. Overdoses tend to happen quickly, and they can be fatal if you don’t receive proper assistance and intervention.
Overdoses can result in permanent damage, depending on which organs are impacted. Complications may include paralysis, stroke, chronic psychosis, heart problems, kidenty failure, and destruction of the muscles.
Sources
- WebMD – Crystal Meth: Signs of Use and Addiction
- Department of Justice – Crystal Methamphetamine Fast Facts
- Medical News Today – Crystal meth: Facts, effects, and treating addiction
- DEA.gov – Methamphetamine
