Dangers of Inhalants
Common Inhalants and Their Side Effects
Inhalants are chemicals present in everyday household products that people inhale in order to get “high.” Also referred to as “air blast,” “snappers,” “poppers,” “huff,” as well as many other names, inhalants are especially dangerous because they are able to be purchased legally, are relatively cheap and are easy for kids, teens and adults to obtain.
There are four main categories of inhalants: volatile solvents, aerosols, gases, and nitrites. Nitrites are a special class mainly used to achieve sexual enhancement. Regardless of the type of inhalant a user huffs, the fumes work directly and quickly on his or her nervous system to produce effects similar to those caused by alcohol intoxication. While people who suffer from inhalant abuse are drawn to the temporary feelings of relaxation and decreased anxiety, less desirable short term effects involve hallucinations, dizziness, lack of coordination, slurred speech, unconsciousness, and more.
Common forms of inhalants include:
- Dust Off
- Glade air freshener
- Glue
- Gas
- Spray paint
- Paint thinner
- Nail polish remover
- Correction fluid
- Hair spray
- Butane lighters
Many users believe that inhalants are less dangerous than street drugs because they come from ordinary products; however, they pose incredibly dangerous long-term effects to one’s health. Those who abuse inhalants run the risk of heart, liver, kidney, lung, brain and bone marrow damage, memory and hearing loss, muscle weakness, depression and/or death caused by heart failure or asphyxiation.
Treatment for Inhalant Addiction
Those who are considered to have an inhalant addiction persistently huff even after acknowledging the harmful effects of their habit. The desire to get “high” on chemical fumes leads to a user’s repeated use of inhalants, often in increasing doses to extend the feelings of exhilaration they experience.
People who choose to discontinue their use of inhalants are likely to experience a variety of uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Some of these symptoms may include drug cravings, dizziness, nausea, headache, anxiety, irritability and depression. For those who are dealing with an inhalant addiction or withdrawal symptoms, Talbott Recovery offers a drug addiction treatment program to help with the recovery process. Our campuses are located in Atlanta and Dunwoody, Georgia.
If you or a loved one is seeking treatment for an inhalant addiction, we are here to help. Please consider contacting us at Talbott Recovery with any questions you might have.