Inhalant addiction, though less discussed than other kinds of drug use and substance use disorders, poses serious health risks. Inhalants, such as household chemicals, spray paints, solvents, and gasses, provide a brief but intense high, leading to dangerous physical and psychological effects.

Regular use can result in severe health issues, including brain damage, respiratory problems, and even sudden death. At Brooks Healing Center, we understand the unique challenges of inhalant addiction and offer specialized programs designed to address both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery.

Key Points

  • Inhalants are substances found in everyday products like aerosol sprays and cleaning fluids, which produce chemical vapors that can be inhaled for a quick, euphoric high.
  • Inhalant addiction develops when individuals become dependent on the effects of inhaling vapors from commonly available products. The abuse of these substances can lead to health problems, strained personal relationships, financial difficulties, and legal troubles.
  • Overdosing on inhalants is a serious risk and can result in life-threatening conditions like sudden sniffing death syndrome, seizures, and asphyxiation.
  • Treatment options for inhalant addiction in Tennessee include detoxification and residential programs at Brooks Healing Center. The center offers comprehensive care with various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Experiential Therapy, and more to support your recovery.

What Are Inhalants?

Inhalants are substances that produce chemical vapors, which can be intentionally inhaled to induce mind-altering effects.[1] These substances are typically found in common household, industrial, or medical products, such as aerosol sprays, cleaning fluids, paint thinners, glue, and markers. When inhaled, they enter the lungs and quickly pass into the bloodstream, reaching the brain and other organs within seconds to minutes. This rapid absorption leads to an intense, short-lived high that may result in various psychological and physical effects. Inhalant use can cause a range of short-term side effects, such as dizziness, loss of coordination, slurred speech, and hallucinations.[2] Long-term use or abuse can lead to severe consequences, including damage to the brain, heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. Moreover, inhalant abuse can lead to addiction, memory impairment, and cognitive decline, with severe cases sometimes resulting in fatal complications like heart failure or asphyxiation. Inhalant abuse is particularly prevalent among adolescents and young adults due to the easy accessibility and affordability of these substances. It’s crucial to recognize the dangers associated with inhalant use and seek professional help for anyone struggling with addiction or problematic use.

Inhalant Addiction and Abuse

Inhalant addiction is a serious issue that develops when people become dependent on the mind-altering effects of inhaling chemical vapors from common household products. Over time, people who frequently inhale these substances may feel an intense craving to continue using them despite the harm they can cause. Inhalant abuse typically involves using these products in ways they were not intended, such as inhaling them directly or through a rag to achieve a brief, euphoric high. Unfortunately, this can lead to a range of problems that impact various aspects of a person's life. The effects of inhalants can include:[3]
  • Health risks: Inhalant abuse can damage vital organs like the brain, heart, and lungs and can even be fatal in some cases.
  • Personal struggles: Continually seeking and using inhalants can strain relationships and lead to social isolation.
  • Financial burdens: The cost of obtaining inhalants can lead to financial difficulties.
  • Legal troubles: Engaging in risky behaviors to obtain inhalants might result in legal consequences.
If you or someone you know is dealing with the use of inhalants, it's essential to seek help from professionals or a treatment center. With the right guidance and support, overcoming addiction and achieving lasting recovery is possible.

Inhalants Quick Reference Chart

Drug Category Commercial & Street Names DEA Schedule Administration
Inhalants Air blasts, bangs, huffing, glading, poppers, quicksilver, whiteout None Inhalation

Can You Overdose or Die from Sniffing Inhalants?

Yes, it is possible to overdose or die from sniffing inhalants. Inhalant abuse can lead to a condition called sudden sniffing death syndrome, where the user's heart stops beating and they stop breathing.[4] This can happen even if it's the first time someone tries sniffing inhalants. Overdosing on inhalants can cause severe symptoms such as seizures, coma, and asphyxiation. It's also possible to choke on vomit or suffocate from putting a bag over your head to inhale the substance. Inhalant abuse can be unpredictable and dangerous, as the chemicals in inhalants can affect different people in different ways. It's crucial to recognize the risks and seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with inhalant addiction or abuse.

How Common is Inhalant Use?

Understanding the prevalence of inhalant use among various age groups can help identify at-risk populations and guide prevention and intervention efforts. Recent data provides valuable insights into inhalant use across different age groups:[5]
  • Among people aged 12 or older in 2021, 0.8 percent (or approximately 2.2 million people) reported using inhalants within the past 12 months.
  • In 2022, an estimated 3.6 percent of 8th graders, 2.4 percent of 10th graders, and 1.8 percent of 12th graders reported using inhalants in the past 12 months.
These statistics emphasize the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of inhalant use disorders and implementing effective strategies to prevent and treat addiction among vulnerable populations. By recognizing the risks and promoting evidence-based approaches to address inhalant abuse, it’s possible to reduce the prevalence of inhalant use and promote healthier choices.

What Are My Options for Inhalant Addiction Treatment in Tennessee?

If you or a loved one is seeking inhalant addiction treatment in Tennessee, Brooks Healing Center offers a comprehensive range of services to support recovery. Our programs include detoxification and residential treatment to help you overcome your addiction and build a foundation for lasting sobriety.

Detoxification

Inhalant detox is often the initial step in the recovery process, helping people safely manage inhalant intoxication and inhalant withdrawal symptoms under the supervision of experienced medical professionals. Brooks Healing Center provides a comfortable, supportive environment to navigate this crucial phase of treatment.

Residential Treatment

Residential treatment at Brooks Healing Center offers an immersive therapeutic experience where clients participate in a variety of treatment modalities, group therapy, and holistic activities to address the underlying causes of addiction. Our personalized approach focuses on healing the whole person and fostering long-term recovery. Treatment modalities at Brooks Healing Center include:
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A goal-oriented therapy that helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to their addiction.
  • Experiential Therapy: Hands-on therapeutic activities, such as art therapy or outdoor therapy, to process emotions and develop healthy coping skills.
  • Trauma-Informed Care: An approach that acknowledges the impact of trauma on addiction and provides specialized interventions to address trauma-related issues.
  • Brainspotting (BSP): A cutting-edge therapeutic technique that uses the field of vision to access and process unresolved emotions and trauma contributing to addiction.
  • 12-Step Programs: Support groups based on the 12-Step model of recovery, providing a sense of community and shared experiences to help clients maintain sobriety.