Inhalant Addiction
Inhalant addiction is a serious problem that requires immediate treatment. It can lead to a number of short-term and long-term health problems.
Inhalants are toxic chemicals that can cause severe health problems if they are abused. They can also cause death.
What Is an Inhalant?
Inhalants are a group of chemical vapors that produce mind-altering effects when inhaled.
These vapors are found in many household products and include volatile solvents (paint thinner, gasoline, correction fluid), aerosols (paint, deodorant, hair spray), and gases (ether, chloroform, nitrous oxide).
Inhalants are often abused by young people because they are easy to obtain and they typically have short-lived “highs.”
However, long-term abuse can lead to a variety of health problems, including inhalant addiction.
Treatment options are available for those who suffer from inhalant abuse and addiction, but a comprehensive program should be able to address the mental health conditions that may have led to these behaviors in the first place.
Types of Inhalants
Inhalants are liquids, sprays, or gases that people sniff or inhale to get high. They can include:
- gasoline
- paint thinner
- air fresheners
- deodorants
- whipped cream dispensers and products containing gases such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas).
Inhaled inhalants are among the most commonly abused substances by teenagers. They are also known by street names such as Poppers, whippets, rush, moon gas, Huff, Texas shoe shine, and Highball.
Inhalant abuse is a dangerous form of drug addiction and can cause serious damage to the body. Long-term abuse can lead to physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and even death.
Signs of Inhalant Addiction and Abuse
Inhalant abuse, sometimes referred to as huffing, sniffing, or bagging, is a dangerous and often overlooked form of drug use. It is more common among young children and teenagers than adults.
When inhaled, the substances that are used can cause a sudden intoxicating high. They can also cause respiratory arrest and suffocation.
Long-term use of inhalants can cause permanent damage to the brain, liver, lungs, and kidneys.
If you suspect that a loved one is abusing inhalants, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.
Some symptoms of inhalant addiction and abuse include:
- a change in personality or mood
- difficulties with social situations
- decreased school performance
- and withdrawal from activities that once brought joy to your loved one.
Physical Signs of Potential Inhalant Abuse
The physical signs of potential inhalant abuse can be hard to recognize. Inhalants can cause a wide range of symptoms from nausea to seizures to hallucinations, and they can even lead to death.
Inhalants can be found in many normal, household products, such as gasoline, paint thinners, correction fluid, felt tip markers, and nail polish.
These products are typically abused by young people, who may use them for fun and to get high.
The chemicals absorbed from these substances enter the lungs and quickly spread to the brain, heart, kidneys, and liver. They are then metabolized and can cause serious damage to these organs.
treatments options
Addiction to inhalants is a serious problem. Fortunately, there are treatment options available for those who are addicted to inhalants.
The most effective treatments for inhalant addiction will address the underlying reasons behind the addiction. This is known as holistic treatment.
Choosing the right treatment option for you or your loved one will depend on many factors. If you are unsure, a professional can help assess your situation and recommend the best treatment program for you.
Inhalant abuse treatments generally involve a combination of therapy and medication. The goal is to improve a person’s emotional state and provide coping tools.
This is often done through cognitive behavioral therapy. It helps individuals understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that led to their inhalant abuse. It also teaches them how to identify and avoid triggering situations.
Resources and references: Addiction Center, American Addiction Center, Oxford Treatment Center, Drug-Free World, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
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