Huffing is a term that describes the way a person may use drugs. Inhalants are chemicals that can be sniffed to create a high. Huffing, which is the act of inhaling vapors, can be a dangerous way for anyone to use these substances. It can pose a threat to overall health and wellbeing especially if done on a consistent basis.
If you or someone you know is engaging in this type of behavior, it may be very important to consider treatment options for addiction. Reach out to a treatment center to learn more.
What Are People Huffing?
Huffing can be done to a wide range of chemicals. The most common of them are household products including cleaning fluids, glue, aerosol sprays, nail polish remover, lighter fuel, paint thinner, and similar types of substances and chemicals.
What Makes These Drugs Dangerous?
Inhalants affect the brain in various ways. In some situations, when these products are inhaled, they can cause permanent physical and mental damage to individuals especially if they do so on a consistent basis. Inhalants can be inhaled through either the nose or the mouth, and in both cases, the chemicals reach the brain quickly, creating a high as they do.
One of the ways these chemicals impact the brain is by starving it of oxygen. This causes the heart to beat irregularly. In many cases, the heart beats rapidly and out of rhythm for some time. There are other consequences to using them as well. For example, some people may lose their sense of smell. Others suffer from nausea and nosebleeds. For those who do this over a longer period of time, it can lead to organ breakdown and failure including to the liver, lungs, and kidneys.
Some people may also experience damage to their overall well-being. They may experience reduced muscle mass, strength, and tone. In some of the most extreme cases, a person may become so weak they are unable to walk or talk. Yet others may experience damage to the brain that limits their ability to think normally.
Why Do People Huff?
While the short- and long-term effects may sound worrisome, many people huff because it can lead to a short-term high. It may only last a few minutes, but it may be enough to create a desire to use it again and again. That could mean it leads to the onset of addiction.
Others think that because these products are readily sold and easy to obtain, they are safe to use in this manner. That is not the case. Inhalants can cause significant damage and loss to health even without prolonged use. Some people may have a heart attack or suffer suffocation if they inhale too much at one time, as this can cause a shutdown of the central nervous system and stop the heart.
Find Help for Addiction at Hickory Treatment Centers
If you are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, know that there is help available to you. Our team is available to discuss your specific treatment needs. We can create an individualized treatment plan to address your specific concerns and help you get on the path to healing and recovery. To learn more about our services, call Hickory Treatment Centers today or fill out the form on our page.
