Crystal Meth Residues in Your Home Could Be Poisoning You
Did you know that your previously owned home or car could be poisoning you? Many of us have heard about the epidemic of crystal meth (methamphetamine) in certain parts of the country and how devastating the effects of crystal meth addiction can be to the users. What many people may not know is that the cooking of meth and the residue that remains after the production and smoking of this chemical can be tremendously hazardous to other people.
The residue that remains behind in a house or car that has been used as a meth lab can be highly explosive and toxic. Methamphetamine is "cooked" by combining over-the-counter pseudoephedrine (cold medicine) with household chemicals that are very flammable including red phosphorous, iodine, ammonia, paint thinner and lithium from batteries. Propane, starter fluid and drain cleaner are also used in the manufacture of the drug and these chemicals often remain in the home creating a fire hazard. In addition, the exposure to the residue of all of these chemicals is toxic to humans.
If crystal meth was smoked in the house there may also be residue of the drug itself left in carpets and on walls. Prolonged exposure to this residue can produce side effects similar to those experienced by the drug users. Meth affects the central nervous system and will increase heart rate and blood pressure giving the user a euphoric feeling, but with deadly side effects. Meth residues may be fatal to young children. Symptoms of exposure over a long period of time include chest pain, itchy skin and a metallic taste in the mouth, severe depression, paranoia, insomnia, loss of appetite, delusions and tremors. Continual exposure or large doses can cause delusions, hallucinations and violent behavior. The exposure to the chemicals used to create the drug can cause cancer. Benzene, a potential meth chemical is known to cause cancer. Other health effects include brain damage, liver or kidney damage, birth defects and miscarriage.
Some things that could be a sign that your home was a meth lab are:
- A strong smell of urine or ammonia
- Signs of chemical burns or spills
- Visible areas in the yard where chemicals have been dumped
- Propane tanks with fittings that have turned blue or green
- Excessive trash with a lot of chemical waste
Testing can be conducted for passive exposure on hair, fingernails, clothing and other household materials through an unknown poisons & toxins analysis. You will definitely need to let your local ANY LAB TEST NOW® franchise know you suspect a previous meth environment. If you suspect that your home has been used as a meth lab you can have it tested by an environmental remediation specialist; however, the most important thing is to vacate the house immediately to prevent serious health problems. If a home is seized by the DEA they will tear it down because exposure to the toxins is so serious.
It is frightening that you or your children could be exposed to harmful products. If you suspect that you have been exposed seek medical help right away, have yourself tested for exposure to these chemicals and have your home tested. Better yet, if you are house-hunting, watch for any of the signs above and if you see them, test before you buy to prevent the possibility of exposure in the first place.