Inhalant Addiction Signs and Symptoms

man huffing inhalants from a bag, inhalants addiction factsUsers most commonly “huff” the inhalant, they soak a rag in the liquid then cover their nose and mouth and inhale the vapors. They may also be “bagging” or inhaling the gas from balloons, plastic and paper bags. The effects usually only last a few minutes but have been compared to alcohol intoxication. They may also be “sniffing”. With this method of consumption the user simply inhales the vapors directly from open containers. Users often have sores around their mouths and a smell of chemicals on their clothes or breath. They may display red, runny eyes or nose and paint stains on their clothes.

Some users may fall or pass out while intoxicated which helps identify the inhalant addiction. If they do pass out then they need to be taken to a hospital immediately so that doctors can do their best to help the heart and clear airways. Unlike other drugs, inhalant use does not show up on drug test. However, noticing the addiction is fairly easy.

Talk with someone who can help:

To treat inhalant abuse symptoms and other substance addiction problems, Recovery Ways offers the following programs and recovery plans:

Short Term Effects

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, unconsciousness
  • Limited reflexes, loss of self-control
  • Euphoria
  • Hallucinations
  • Slowed breathing
  • Vomiting
  • Glassy eyes
  • Rapid irregular heartbeat, convulsions, comas
  • Bloody noses, rashes or sores around the mouth and nose
  • Severe headaches
  • Depression
  • Death (even the first time)

Long Term Effects

  • Heart damage, heart failure
  • Depression, suicide
  • Muscle weakness, bone marrow damage
  • Damaged lungs and immune system
  • Bloody noses
  • Loss of smell and/or hearing
  • Death

Short term effects may not be long-lived, but they are still very dangerous and can be fatal. To mitigate the risk of death or serious health issues associated with inhalant addiction treatment may need to be considered. Treatment, or drug rehab, can range in costs and type. Some types of treatment programs are concierge detox, inpatient or IOP, also known as intensive outpatient. If the user is not agreeable to the terms of treatment, you may want to seek the help of an interventionist or contact our admissions coordinators.

Are you or someone you love showing signs of addiction?

If so, our admissions team is here to review your insurance benefits and help place you or a loved one in the best inhalant addiction treatment setting possible.

Addiction Treatment & Rehab for Inhalants

If you are in need of inhalant addiction rehab, help is always available from Recovery Ways. We offer JCAHO accredited and highly-effective drug rehab treatment services in the Salt Lake City area. If you’re ready to seek recovery and live a life of sobriety our admissions coordinators are here to help you find the best treatment available.

To speak with someone and begin the admissions process please call 888.986.7848