What is a common symptom of stimulant use in relation to physical appearance?

The commonly observed symptom of stimulant use related to physical appearance is dilated pupils. Stimulants, such as cocaine, amphetamines, and other similar substances, can lead to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in various physical changes, including pupil dilation.

When someone uses a stimulant, the body responds with a fight-or-flight response, which causes the pupils to widen in order to take in more light and enhance vision—this response can be linked to the increased alertness often associated with stimulant use. Dilated pupils are a visible and notable feature that can help in identifying potential stimulant use during assessments or observational scenarios.

In contrast, constricted pupils are more typically associated with opioid use, dry skin is not a direct hallmark of stimulant use, and increased body temperature, while it can occur, is often a physiological response that is not as immediately associated with changes in physical appearance as dilated pupils. Understanding these signs can be crucial for law enforcement and medical personnel in identifying substance use.