Inhalants: Not a Drug of the Past

Austin drug treatment for inhalant addiction
Dominic Nicosia

Written By

Dominic Nicosia

It seems like a long time ago that our news broadcasts were filled with stories of teens getting in trouble for ‘huffing’ permanent markers and spray paint. Unfortunately, while these stories may not inundate our televisions and computer screens anymore, the threat and prevalence of teens, inhalants and addiction should still be on our radar. There are three main types of inhalants: solvents, gases and nitrates. The use of these inhalants creates a short “high” feeling, similar to the feeling of anesthesia. The numbing, drug-like sensation calms the body down and sometimes causes the user to go unconscious.

Obviously, the extensive use of inhalants turns into addiction and can have serious long-term effects and even instant death. The most dangerous aspect of inhalants and addictions to huffing is that many of the items used can be found in every household. Paints, hair sprays and lighter fluid are among some of the most common inhalants.

The reality is that you could be fueling your child’s addiction to inhalants without knowing it. Because inhalants only produce a short high, users, especially those who have an addiction, huff the chemicals over and over to sustain the numbing sensation. Inhaling a large amount of these drugs can cause “heart failure, suffocation, seizures and coma.” The instant death I previously referred to is called “sudden sniffing death” and may occur “to a completely healthy person from a single session of inhalant use. ” Even if the user avoids death, after just one use inhalants can “disrupt heart rhythms and lower oxygen levels. ”As far as long-term effects, inhalant addiction can negatively affect the body similar to that of other drug and alcohol use. Inhalants enter through the nose and mouth and into the lungs, which causes the chemicals to enter the bloodstream and quickly reach the other organs in the body, including the brain. Over time and continued use and addiction, inhalants can cause “nerve damage that produces results similar to that of multiple sclerosis. ” Damage from addiction can also occur in other major organs such as the kidneys, heart and lungs. Also similar to other drugs, this addiction can cause irreparable damage to one’s thought processes, sight and hearing.

So how do you prevent your child from falling into inhalant use and addiction? The best method of prevention is education. Due to the accessible nature of inhalants, it is hard to keep these drugs completely out of reach. Education and open communication are the keys, with treatment and rehabilitation being vital if addiction is discovered.

Dominic Nicosia

Dominic Nicosia

Dominic Nicosia, a seasoned content writer, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the realm of healthcare writing, particularly in the addiction care field. Holding a Bachelor's Degree in Communications and Professional Writing from the University of the Arts Philadelphia (2009), Dominic has carved a niche for himself with over seven years of specialized writing experience in addiction care.

As the Senior Content Writer at Recovery Unplugged, Dominic is entrusted with the pivotal role of curating and overseeing the online blog, ensuring its alignment with the highest standards of accuracy, relevance, and trustworthiness. His responsibilities extend beyond the blog, encompassing all written communications within the Marketing domain. From articles and thought leadership pieces to web content, Dominic's penmanship is evident in every written facet of Recovery Unplugged.

Dominic's credibility is further enhanced by his contributions to esteemed publications like Austin Fit Magazine, where he delves into critical topics such as drug use, addiction, recovery, and mental health. His writings not only reflect his profound understanding of the subject matter but also resonate with readers, offering insights and guidance. Outside the professional sphere, Dominic's passion for music is evident. He has been writing and playing music for years, showcasing his versatility and depth as a writer and artist.

Dominic Nicosia stands as a beacon of expertise and credibility in the healthcare writing community. With a deep understanding of his subject matter and a commitment to accuracy, he consistently delivers content that is both informative and reliable, meeting the highest standards of quality and trustworthiness in the industry.


Experience

  • Proven track record in managing and enhancing online blogs, articles, and thought leadership pieces.
  • Adept at blending his passion for music with his writing, offering a unique perspective on topics.


    Education

  • Bachelor's Degree in Communications and Professional Writing from the University of the Arts Philadelphia (2009).
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