Inhalant Addiction Treatment

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Inhalant Addiction Treatment in San Diego, California

Inhalants are different from other drugs in that the substances can be found in regular household items sold over the counter in retail stores. When the chemicals in these products are inhaled, they can create a short-lived high. However, the chemicals can also cause significant damage to the brain and other parts of the body, making them a very dangerous substance to abuse. Even more frightening is the fact that inhalants are the only substances today that are abused by younger teens and even children more than older teens and adults.

Inhalants can be used in any number of ways:

  • Breathing them in through the nose and mouth (huffing)

  • Spraying directly into the nose or mouth

  • Spraying into a plastic bag and inhaling from the bag (bagging)

  • Stuffing an inhalant-soaked rag into the mouth

  • Inhaling from balloons usually filled with laughing gas

Types of Inhalants

Inhalants can be broken down into four basic categories:

  • Volatile Solvents these liquids become gases at room temperature and include common products like nail polish remover, gasoline, paint thinner, and felt-tipped markers

  • Aerosol sprays containing solvents, which include hair and deodorant spray, vegetable oil sprays, and spray paints

  • Gases found in both household and medical products, these inhalants include propane tanks, whipped cream dispensers, and anesthesia like laughing gas

  • Nitrites, these inhalants, which are primarily used to enhance sexual function and are often linked to risky sexual behavior, are usually sold in small bottles labeled liquid aroma, video head cleaner, leather cleaner, and room odorizer.

Short-Term Effects of Inhalants

Inhalants produce a high comparable to other types of intoxication that includes euphoria, slurred speech and reduced coordination. Other short-term effects of inhalants are:

  • Light-headedness and dizziness

  • Delusions and hallucinations

  • Rapid, irregular heartbeat

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Nosebleeds and headache after use

  • Sudden death, which can occur after one use or chronic use

Long-Term Effects of Inhalants

Over time, inhalants can have a serious and even deadly effect on the body, including the following:

  • Reduced muscle tone and muscle wasting

  • Hearing loss

  • Kidney and liver damage

  • Nerve damage, which affects muscle coordination and may be permanent

  • Brain damage, due to ongoing oxygen deprivation

Although rare, inhalant use can also lead to dependence if it is repeated over an extended period of time. Young users that begin with inhalants may also be more likely to try other drugs later on.

Treatment for Inhalant Addiction

Inhalants are dangerous substances that are often used by children and young teens. The chemicals in these substances can lead to brain damage, loss of motor function and even death. If you or someone you love is struggling with inhalant abuse or addiction, help is available. Contact West Coast Recovery Centers today at (760) 492-6385 to get the help you need to turn away from inhalant abuse and discover a new, healthy life of sobriety.

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