Think all drugs are illegally obtained? It may surprise you to know that similar highs achieved through substances like cocaine and marijuana may be found in common household objects. Unfortunately, damaging effects and health risks also come with the abuse of these items, which are commonly classified as inhalants.
Inhalant abuse is defined by the chronic inhalation - also known as sniffing or huffing - of household products that are high in toxicity. Look around your home and you may find things like nail polish, model airplane glue, correction fluid, aerosols, or paint thinner. Get too close to these products and the fumes may invoke a dizzying sensation. This is the high that entices many people, in particular children, to abuse these products.
When inhalants are abused, the vapors and fumes from these products are taken into the lungs and distributed throughout the body, provoking a feeling of intoxication not unlike that of being in a drunken state. However, since the sensation wears off quickly, the abuser may be influenced to continue huffing, and the risk greatly increase. Inhalant abuse can lead to headaches, lethargy, fatigue, and body pain.
Continued absorption of toxic chemicals into the body can also cause severe damage to the central nervous system, a decrease in oxygen to the body, and in some cases death. Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome may occur among younger users who suffer cardiac arrest from inhaling for the first time. It commonly occurs when an aerosol is sprayed into a bag, which then covers the nose and mouth. Oxygen is cut off from the body, and the abuser suffocates.
Signs that a loved one may be using inhalants
Parents in particular should be alert and look for signs their children are abusing household items for a quick high. Some signs to look out for may include:
- Constant dizziness or slurring of speech
- Constant sniffling, red eyes and runny nose
- Unusual behavior with markers or correction fluid (bending close while using them)
- Paint marks or other unusual stains on the face
If you or somebody you love is abusing drugs, Williamsburg Place is here to help in your rehabilitation and recovery. Please Contact Us today to learn more about intervention and overcoming addiction.
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