SearchThe world of drugs can have naturally occurring substances out in the world that was once used in religious rituals but can become a serious problem when abused. One such hallucinogen is Dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Used in South America for various spiritual and recreational ways, DMT naturally occurs in different plants and animals; however, it becomes more concentrated and potent when taken as a party drug.
When someone abuses DMT, it can have a broad range of effects on their body, but what does it do to your brain? Do its hallucinogenic properties leave a lasting impact on your mind that becomes irreversible?
What DMT Does on Your “Trip”
Similar to other psychedelics, DMT primarily affects our brain’s serotonin receptors. As these levels rise, you can begin to experience visual and auditory hallucinations as your brain interprets the world around you differently. While the trip itself lasts only 30 minutes, users swear that the changes to their world feel real.
The Short-Term Effects of DMT Abuse
Few hallucinogenic drugs are considered addictive in the way other substances can become; the short-term effects of a DMT high can prove quite potent. This potency can cause lasting damage to your physical and mental health.
Even when taken once or in small quantities, people can expect to experience the following:
- Rapid Heart Rate
- Increased Blood Pressure
- Chest Pain or Tightness
- Agitation or Irritability
- Dizziness
- Rapid Eye Movements
- Dilated Pupils
What Does DMT Do to Our Serotonin Receptors?
Our brains regulate our serotonin levels on a daily basis, and we can take specific drugs to affect that production. Antidepressants are often used to help control and promote serotonin production in people with depression. DMT acts in a similar manner when people take large quantities.
You can suffer from serotonin syndrome when your brain becomes overwhelmed by the increased amount of serotonin in your system. The side effects of this include:
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Severe Headaches
- Loss of Muscle Coordination
- Dangerously High Blood Pressure
- Shivering
- Goosebumps
Additionally, more serious symptoms include a high fever, an irregular heartbeat, falling unconscious, and possibly seizures. If you have a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia, DMT can trigger an episode due to sudden changes in your brain chemistry. When mixed with other recreational drugs, the side effects of DMT abuse can lead to even more dangerous and potentially life-threatening side effects.
Potential Long-Term Side Effects
Where Can I Get Help?
Whether you have only recreationally taken DMT a few times or have abused it for years, the potential long-term side effects can prove incredibly dangerous. DMT alters your brain’s chemistry on a fundamental level and can potentially develop serious consequences. Finding a facility that can give you the help and support you need to aid in your recovery becomes your highest priority. That’s where our team can help.
If you or someone you love needs admittance into a drug treatment center in Mahanoy City, PA , Silver Pines Treatment Center can help.We specialize in helping our patients get onto their road to recovery and provide the support they need to stay clean. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, reach out to our team to learn more about our drug and addiction treatment services by calling 267.719.8689 today.
