Harms of inhalant abuse: It may even cause death New title: Inhalant Abuse – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Inhalant abuse is a type of substance abuse in which an individual abuses substance that are commonly found in certain household and workplaces. Also known as volatile substance abuse, solvent abuse, sniffing, huffing, and bagging, inhalant abuse is aimed at attaining an altered state of mind by inhaling the chemical vapors produced by the substance. Some of the common examples of the substances that can be abused as an inhaler are oven cleaner, model glue, spray paint, correction fluid, paint thinner, cleaning fluids, nail polish remover, rubber cement, and gasoline.

Inhalant abuse is most reported among males in the age group of 14-15 years but gradually declines in the age group of 18-19 years. Sometimes, the abuse of these substances continues during the adulthood. The common areas where a higher rate of inhalant abuse is reported are:

• ·       History of physical or sexual abuse
• ·       Delinquency or negligence
• ·       Criminal behavior
• ·       Depression
• ·       Suicidal behavior
• ·       Antisocial attitude
• ·       Family conflict
• ·       Violence
• ·       Drug abuse
• ·       Lower income families
• ·       Individuals in rural communities
• ·       Communities with high unemployment rates

Symptoms of Inhalant Abuse

Inhalant abuse is difficult to be traced as there are more than 1,000 household and workplace items that can be abused as inhalants. These products are also legal, inexpensive as well as easy to hide. However, when someone abuses any form of inhalant, he/she may show any of the following symptoms:

• ·     Bloodshot or dilated eyes
• ·     Chapped lips
• ·     Runny nose
• ·       Frequent nose bleeding
• ·       Chemical-like odor on their breath
• ·       Paint stains on their hands and clothes
• ·       Appearing drunk or high
• ·       Slurred speech  
• ·       Headaches
• ·       Dizziness
• ·       Poor concentration
• ·       Nausea and vomiting
• ·       Poor memory
• ·       Trouble sleeping
• ·       Vision problems
• ·       Weight loss
• ·       Change in friend circle

Types of Inhalants

Inhalants are typically categorized into four major categories. These include:

1.     Volatile solvents

These are used for household and industrial purposes and generally vaporizes at room temperature. Some of the common types of volatile solvents are:

·       Paint thinners and removers.

·       Degreasers.

·       Gasoline.

·       Rubber cement.

·       Lighter fluid.

·       Glues.

·       Nail polish removers.

·       Dry cleaning fluids.

·       Correction fluids.

·       Felt tip markers.

2.     Aerosols

These can propellants and solvents. Some of its common examples include:

·       Spray paints.

·       Spray deodorant.

·       Hair spray.

·       Vegetable oil spray.

·       Fabric protector spray.

3.     Gases

Gases inhalants include medical anesthetics as well as gases used in household or commercial products. Medical anesthetics include chloroform, halothane, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas). Among these, nitrous oxide is the most abused of these gases and can be found in whipped cream dispensers and propellant canisters (often referred to as “whippets”). Nitrous oxide can also be found in products that boost octane levels in racing cars. Other household products containing gas are butane lighters, propane tanks and refrigerants.

4.     Nitrites

These are chemical compounds that are found in leather cleaner, liquid aroma, and room deodorizers. Acting directly on an individual’s central nervous system, these chemicals dilate blood vessels and relax smooth muscles and are commonly known as "poppers" or "snappers."

Treatment for Inhalant Abuse

Treating individuals addicted to inhalants is as important as treating those addicted to any other form of substance. Some of the common forms of treatments that may help include individual therapy (cognitive behavioral therapy), family therapy, activity and engagement programs, and aftercare (including support groups). If delayed, sniffing these products such as solvents and aerosol sprays, can lead to conditions like seizures, coma, and sudden cardiac death. In case, you would like to consult an expert for the condition and get the best possible treatment, Athena Behavioral Health can help.

Athena Behavioral Health is one of the safest and secure treatment centers for mental health and addiction. The experts at our treatment facility design a custom-made treatment plan for each patient to ensure their fastest recovery. So, if any teen around you or someone else you know is addicted to any form of substance or is dealing with any mental health issue, Athena Behavioral Health is the place to. To know more about our treatment plans and facility, contact us at 9289086193 or drop us an email at info@athenabhs.com

Read More :  Detox Centers in India, Mental Hospital Gurgaon, Addiction Treatment Centers in Gurgaon