Mysterious Symptoms

Recognizing symptoms of ecstasy use is the primary defense against allowing someone you love to become ensnared in its addictive powers.  Although ecstasy is not one of the most abused drugs, the consequence of its abuse can be devastating.  Not only are there physical, emotional, and mental effects associated with its use, ecstasy is also illegal.  Depending upon the offense committed and the state in which it occurs, ecstasy use can result in lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.  Therefore, people who think that someone they care about is using the drug should definitely become aware of the symptoms of ecstasy use. 

Non-physical ecstasy use symptoms include an abrupt change in school, work, and/or personal routines.  Grades suffer, good work habits deteriorate, and long time relationships suffer.  Physical symptoms of ecstasy use include extreme pupil dilation, constant feeling of cold, being tired, and constantly in need of sleep.  As a result, many ecstasy users wear sunglasses in the absence of sun and warm clothing year round.  They may also sleep for inordinately long periods, although this sleep may be fitful and non restorative.  Bouts of depression, anxiety, and paranoia are also common while using ecstasy, and in the days immediately following its use, these after effects may persist long term.

Almost half of those who use ecstasy are considered dependent on the drug.  More than a third of users would be considered to abuse the drug.  The move from casual use to addiction and abuse can be signaled by needing to take more ecstasy to receive the same high.  Thus, borrowing excessive amounts of money from friends and family can be another sign of ecstasy use.

Side effects of ecstasy use that are readily visible to others are profuse sweating and confusion as well as grinding and clenching of teeth.  When ecstasy use symptoms such as these are present, it’s important to begin counter actions such as taking frequent sips of water, remaining cool, and refraining from intense activity such as dancing.  Rapid heart beat and dehydration caused by using ecstasy can lead to heat stroke, cardiac arrest, and kidney failure.  Therefore, it is imperative that anyone suffering from these symptoms of ecstasy use be given appropriate and immediate care.