How drugs can affect your health

Some health conditions can run in our families. If many whānaunga (relatives) have had the same illness, especially if they had those conditions from a young age, it could indicate that you may have a higher risk of getting those illnesses or conditions too. It doesn’t mean that you will get it, but it is important to pay closer attention to any warning signs. Doctors use your family history to decide when they need to screen (an initial quick check) for issues, such as cancer, and how often.

Sometimes health issues aren’t visible straight away. Knowing our family history helps us to keep a closer eye on parts of our health that we may be more likely to develop problems, especially as drugs can put strain on our bodies. For example, heart issues may only be detected when checked for until they emerge one day in a serious incident like a heart attack. Regularly checking your heart health when using drugs is very important if you have a family history of heart problems, especially if you are using powerful stimulants like methamphetamine and cocaine. 

• Feeling constantly or unusually fatigued or irritable 
• Frequent illness, such as colds and flu 
• Unexplained weight changes 
• Persistent aches and pains 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Sleep disturbances, especially if you wake up in the night with strong cravings 
• Skin irritation, such as redness and swelling 
• Changes in your digestion (how often you go to the toilet and unusual sensations). 
• Changes in libido (sex drive) 
• Tingling pins and needles, numbness, or a burning sensation in your hands and feet. 

These are often the first signs that something isn’t quite right. If you notice one or more of these that don’t go away, it’s worth noting them down and sharing with a health professional, like your doctor (GP). 

“As a Doctor, I want to provide the best care for you. When I know what you’re using it helps me to provide adequate care that meets your needs. Often as GPs we are scared to ask, but it is important. When you share your story, we can work together to find the best options for your physical and mental health. Many of my patients didn’t know that meth had a big impact on their heart and wished they had known earlier and acted sooner. I wish that people could tell me about their meth use the same way they talk about their coffee.”

Dr Clara Dawkins – GP liaison for CADS 

When you visit a doctor, they’re likely to ask you about your lifestyle. This includes things like how you’re eating, sleeping, exercising, and your alcohol and other drug use. They may do a general physical exam, where they check your skin, eyes, lymph nodes, and abdomen, and ask about any areas of pain or discomfort. They may also check your blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and note down your height and weight. These are common checks each time you visit, that can help paint a picture of your health over time. 

They may also ask you to do blood tests, depending on your situation and factors like your age and family history. Some of these tests might include cholesterol, glucose levels, liver and kidney function, and screen for blood-borne viruses (e.g. hepatitis, syphilis, and HIV). A complete blood count (CBC) can reveal signs of infection, inflammation, or anaemia. These tests help paint a clearer picture of your health and if any support is needed. 

If you feel comfortable, sharing what drugs you have used with them can help them provide better care. Some of these symptoms can be related to your drug use.