Most commonly known to most as “huffing”, inhalant abuse in South Florida, is defined as the intentional inhalation of chemical vapors to attain a mental high or euphoric effect.
By holding plastic bags over their heads and/or breathing in from a solvent soaked rag, users can experience effects ranging from alcohol-like intoxication to vivid hallucinations. All of this depends on the exact substance used as well as the dosage amount. These effects are a result of the capillary surface of the lungs swiftly absorbing the gas causing blood levels to spike rapidly.
Many inhalants are ingredients that can be found in household products, not intended to be concentrated and inhaled, and are frequently abused by children, teenagers and incarcerated people. It is believed that this happens either out of boredom or simply ease of accessibility.
Examples of inhalants are as follows:
Volatile solvents
These are liquids vaporized at room temperature if left in unsealed containers. Pain thinner, gasoline, nail polish and remover all contain volatile solvents.
Aerosols
Sprays that contain propellants and solvents such as toluene (one of the most common solvents found in aerosols). Paint, deodorant, cooking products and fabric protector are common aerosols.
Gasers
Substances that lack definite shape or volume, such as refrigerants and medical anesthetics. These gases are found in butane lighters, air conditioning units and propane tanks. Additionally, medical anesthetics such as ether, chloroform and nitrous oxide also fall in this category.
Side effects range from headache to nausea and vomiting to slurred speech and loss of motor function. More serious consequences can include permanent brain and organ damage and, sometimes, even death. Those who continually abuse inhalants can cause irreversible damage to their entire body, including; heart, liver, kidneys, lungs and brain.
The Delray Center for Healing can help. With both inpatient and outpatient treatment options available, there’s no reason why you should not seek assistance in fighting your addiction.
